Last couple of years has been a very busy period in the program of the Social Support. It is difficult to sum up everything in a few sentences. The changes in the service were caused by the implementation of the Active Service Model into current structure of the organisation. A few times I was invited by the Department of Health to join Focus Groups on the Model. For a next year this new philosophy of service will be taking a shape in our organisation, which will have a direct impact on the clients, volunteers and carers of the Social Support.. Active Service Model might be challenging as a new approach to every phase of the service but at the same time it is a challenge needed and awaited.
On bi-monthly basis the training to the volunteers is delivered. The topics of depression among elderly people, rights and responsibilities of the volunteers, OH&S, communication techniques, grief, palliative care to name a few has been covered. Our dedicated volunteers attend workshops organised by other agencies, eg. Monash Volunteer Recourse Centre.
In partnership with the Centre we have introduced faster and more convenient method of Police Checks applications. Nowadays we use CrimCheck, which allows us to know the results of the Police Checks within minutes from lodging an application. Our staff uses CrimCheck calendar to be reminded about lodgements. The system works well and fulfils qualitative and quantitative demands of the programs provided by the Bureau.
Polish Telelink ( phone conference for lonely/isolated people of Polish background) is more popular than ever before. It is hosted twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, at 3.30 pm. Telelink has developed many friendships and a special bond among members has been created. The discussions meet expectations of the participants and allow to express opinions, thoughts and requests.
Once per fortnight I take the opportunity to provide clients with information-referral service in Dandenong Community Advisory Bureau. Filling up forms together with the clients, making referrals or dissemination of the useful materials are just examples of my work. The service takes place every second Tuesday and is free of charge.
The Program is responding to current needs of the Polish community in Victoria. Together with Centrelink we organised information sessions regarding Australian-Polish agreement on superannuation and pension, which will come into life 1st October 2010.
At the end of the report I would like to thank all the clients, their families and carers for input they have in the program. The volunteers I have an honour to work with are amazing group of people and their willingness to help is deeply appreciated.
HELP THE LONELY!!!
Do you know any isolated people? Are you moved by their fate? Do you want to be friends with them?
FRIENDLY VISITING PROGRAM will give you the chance to help the elderly, lonely or disabled Poles, and doing so will enrich your life and make it very rewarding.
No matter how old you are
or what you are doing.
YOU CAN HELP!!!
Just some free time and a little of good will
can make a huge difference.
REMEMBER! Older, lonely and disabled Poles are waiting for your help!
They need someone who could visit them at home, talk to them or take them for a walk.
It is as simple as that.
Friendly Visiting Program
We are looking for volunteers who are willing to provide companionship to isolated Polish speaking elderly or younger people with disabilities. Read More If you are over 18 yo If you can communicate in Polish If you can contribute at least 1 hour per week If you are interested in helping Polish community we are waiting for you.
We provide:
Initial training that includes information about the Polish Community Council and Social Support Program Regular information sessions Less formal, social gathering Reimbursement for travel expenses (approved by the coordinator).
If you need more information contact with Ewa Kizewski, Program Coordinator, under this link Monday to Friday, 9:00 –17:00 (link)
Telelink
Telelink – is a form of teleconferencing where up to ten people chat together as a group.
Telelink provides valuable social support, interaction and „phone friendship” for isolated older people. They are linked twice a week for 45 minutes. Telelink was set up in response to Polish Community Council concerns for the needs of lonely and isolated older people and their carers. The Telelink program has been in operation since 1996.
Social Support Program is supported by funding from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments under the HACC program (May 2013)
Polish Community Council of Victoria
Reg. No. A0000423K
Polish Care Services
Level 3, Suite 305
3 Chester Street
Oakleigh VIC 3166
Phone: +61 (03) 9569 4020
Fax: +61 (03) 9569 4780