WODEN COMMUNITY SERVICE INC ANNUAL REPORT 08–09 WODEN COMMUNITY SERVICE INC ANNUAL REPORT 08–09
Participants in 2009 Easter egg hunt. Courtesy of Woden Community Service. CONTENTS
STRATEGIC PLAN 6
BOARD MEMBERS 8
APPRECIATION LIST 9
PRESIDENT’S REPORT 10
DIRECTOR’S REPORT 11
STAFF DEPARTURES IN 2008 – 2009 12
CHILDREN’S SERVICES 14 LOLLIPOP CHILDREN’S CENTRE 14 WODEN WESTON FAMILY DAY CARE 14 SCHOOL AGE CARE 15
COMMUNITY LINKAGES AND DIRECTIONS TEAM 18 ASSISTANCE WITH CARE AND HOUSING FOR THE AGED 18 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 18 COMMUNICATIONS 19 FAMILY CONNECTIONS 19 SETTLEMENT GRANTS PROGRAM 19 VOLUNTEERS 20 COMMUNITY BUS 20 COMMUNITY LINKAGES PROGRAM 21
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 22 COMMUNITY LIFE SKILLS 22 THE BIG ISSUE 23 WODEN YOUTH CENTRE 24 PERSONAL HELPERS AND MENTORS PROGRAM (PHAMS) 26 INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM 27 HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE (HACC) 28 TUESDAY RESPITE GROUP 30 COMMUNITY TRANSPORT 31 FRIDAY GROUP 31 Acknowledgement of Traditional Ownership SOCIAL SUPPORT FOR CENTRE BASED GROUPS 32 Woden Community Service recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the original custodians of this land. We are committed to reconciliation in all aspects of our work. We acknowledge HUMAN RESOURCES, IT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT 34 the injustices experienced by Indigenous peoples since colonisation. We acknowledge the disadvantage experienced by many Indigenous people today and our shared responsibility in addressing this. FINANCE REPORT 35
CONTENTS 5 STRATEGIC PLAN 2008–2010
This plan was developed by OUR VISION We value being part of the 2. Build strength in the community 4. Support our staff community the staff and Board of Woden Supporting, developing and Encourage volunteering and Identify and prioritise the training and Community Service to express celebrating community strength We acknowledge our role in our recognise the inherent value development needs of our staff and community delivering services, support of volunteer contributions in the provide the opportunity and resources our values, our approach to our and advocacy. We value earning the development of a diverse, strong and to meet these in an equitable way. work and what we aim to achieve OUR VALUES respect of our community members and healthy community. by working with our community. acknowledge our responsibility to maintain Develop strategies and processes mutually supportive partnerships. Support the development and that support our staff in dealing We put people first operation of other organisations with their day to day work including and groups. occupational health and safety, We are committed to a cohesive We will act with honesty, integrity and and inclusive community. We seek to risk management and equal transparency Encourage and support the build positive relationships, based on employment opportunities. development of community based respect and honest communication. We will be professional, ethical and and initiated activities that build on Reward and encourage innovative We acknowledge the value of people mutually respectful in all aspects of our and celebrate community strength. service delivery. working towards independence, self- work. We will be accountable for the determination and autonomy. effective and efficient management Work with the community to address of staff, finances and services. We aim issues collaboratively. We’re inclusive to maintain up-to-date and evidence 5. Strengthen organisational capability based practices. Develop and maintain relationships We support the principles of social justice with key stakeholders and service Increase awareness of Woden and the rights of individuals. We value delivery partners. Community Service so that we have diversity and the contribution it makes to OUR GOALS a clear identity at the community, our community. Participate in industry, peak body, political and policy levels 1. Develop and deliver services to support community and other forums to and strengthen our community. We are a proactive, responsive and influence policy and initiate programs. Establish work systems that support organisational operations innovative service Be responsive to the needs and Be accountable for managing our circumstances of people seeking our Provide staff with the workplace We have an open door and create a resources responsibly assistance and offer them a service environment, tools and skills for welcoming environment where people that is understanding and respectful. Operate to professional standards ongoing professional development feel comfortable. We will provide a and in a business-like manner in and service delivery improvements service that is flexible and responsive. Maintain our position as an innovative securing funding and maintaining We will form partnerships with other service provider in the ACT by accountability. Learning and development underpin service providers and lobby to ensure our targeting programs to meet current WCS’s quality service delivery community’s needs are met. and future needs. Review governance structures and organisational design to enable us We support each other to do our work Undertake research to understand to meet the demands of the changing demographics, community strengths, business environment. We will work as a team and will unmet needs and emerging social collaborate and communicate with issues and programs. Establish performance measures each other in a way that demonstrates and regular review processes for all our respect, honesty, flexibility and Develop and implement a way of our programs. acceptance of one another. delivering our service that ensures that we work together to provide an Seek resources required to deliver We value the contribution our staff makes integrated solution for people. services and facilities required by to the community. Staff will be supported the community. to develop professional and personal Review our program and services skills and provided the opportunity to regularly to ensure their ability to Develop budgets that reflect deliver quality services. meet the community’s needs and the services, personnel and the aspirations of the participants. accommodation required by the organisation.
6 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | STRATEGIC PLAN 2008–2010 7 BOARD MEMBERS APPRECIATION LIST
Woden Community Service Inc WCS BOARD OF GOVERNANCE would like to acknowledge the following organisations for their ACTCOSS Renald Navilly generous support throughout ACT Health Rotary Club of Woden Daybreak PRESIDENT the previous financial year. In ACT Shelter Salvation Army Helen Scully supporting Woden Community DIRECTOR Service, they are building and Australian Catholic University Samaritan House Chris Redmond strengthening our community. Belconnen Community Service Sing Australia
TREASURER Chief Minister’s Department Social Ventures Australia Peter Mitchell Communities@Work Southern Cross Club SECRETARY Conflict Resolution Service Statesman Hotel Curtin Janet Thompson Council on the Ageing (ACT) St Albans Anglican Church Lyons GENERAL MEMBER Marion Blake Darrell Burkey and Computing St Vincent de Paul Society Jamie Crosby Assistance Support and Education (CASE) The Big Issue Australia Martin Devine Louise Evans David Segrott and Australian Health The Body Shop (Civic and Woden) Chris Healy & Safety Services P/L The Good Guys Tuggeranong David Menzel Disability ACT The Music Shop Belconnen Department of Families Housing Community Services and Indigenous The Rainbow Affairs (FAHCSIA) Tuggeranong Community Arts Centre Department of Territories and Members of the Board of Municipal Services Tuggeranong Mental Health Team Management of Woden Uniting Church’s Early Morning Centre Community Service Inc. are Harvey Norman Woden elected by the community and Hellenic Club University of Canberra volunteer their services to support Institute of Child Protection Studies Voodoo Creative the organisation in responding to Welfare Rights and Legal Centre the needs of the community. Lyons Early Childhood School Woden Immanuel Lutheran Church Any person living, working or Marist College studying in the Woden area, or Marsh P/L Woden Mental Health Team who is volunteering in or using Woden Valley Community Council the services of Woden Community Mental Health Community Coalition Service is eligible to become Mental Health Foundation Yarralumla Unity Church a member of the Board of Youth Coalition of the ACT Management. National Disability Services ACT Branch YMCA Chifley
Older Person’s Mental Health YWCA of Canberra
8 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | APPRECIATION LIST 9 PRESIDENT’S REPORT DIRECTOR’S REPORT 2009 2008 / 2009
It was with some trepidation that I took on participated. The report was excellent As a Board we have enjoyed the input of As I look back on the preceding year The service is also working on building Staff are committed to the people they the role of President at the last AGM never and the Board was delighted to staff to our meetings giving us information at WCS I also look forward to the a stronger a collaborative practice, work with and the community they work having been in that role before! However congratulate Chris on his performance on the work of various teams. Personal organisation’s future. The past year acknowledging that we need to work within. I would like to thank them for their I found that I am one of a team of very and recommend his salary increment. attendance at Board meetings has has been a period of transformation with other services to provide better efforts throughout the year, not just from talented Board members who have Later in the year the Board conducted enabled us to get a first hand insight into and significant change for Woden services to people. WCS is developing doing their job but by getting involved worked together to oversee another year a review of the Director’s duty the work of the programs which is very Community Service. While the physical a model of service delivery based on in community events and activities (in of successful initiatives and achievements statement and role which resulted helpful. We know that reporting to the changes have been most apparent, collaboration and building our capability their own time) and contributing to their by Woden Community Service. We are so in acknowledging that Chris is now Board adds extra work and we would like those changes have brought the to work effectively in this way. WCS has workplace to make it a great place to fortunate to have a very competent and operating at a higher level than he was to acknowledge the effort and thank the shifts in service delivery that enable been actively involved in a number of work and giving it such a great reputation highly innovative Director for our Service, at his last review mainly by becoming staff for their efforts. improved service provision and service service initiatives to strengthen outcomes for it values and its practice. Chris Redmond, who adds enormous involved in the broad community and integration. The future is based on the for people accessing services and value to the work that WCS does. My very endeavouring to engage Government We are all volunteers and as such we changes that have taken place and our delivering community activities that Volunteers are an equally important sincere thanks to all for your willing and in better delivering community services. have been delighted to be rewarded for capacity to keep changing to ensure strengthen Woden’s social fabric. part of the organisation, undertaking able contributions. His salary level now reflects that our efforts by our Volunteer Coordinator our relevance to the community and a variety of roles to assist and support change and we again expressed our Geoff Hayes who has organised various the people we work with and ensuring WCS is engaged in service partnerships community members to actively engage One of my first activities as President was gratitude to our Director who is truly events to feed all the volunteers of the quality of our services. in the areas of children’s services, mental in their community. I would like to thank to attend the first Woden Festival expertly keen to serve the community whilst at the organisation both literally and health, community development and all the volunteers for their efforts and their organised by Emma Walter, Lynton the same time expanding the business metaphorically. Our organisation is highly During 2008/09 the WCS Board and home and community care services. dedication to the people they support Sheehan and their team in partnership acumen of the organisation. dependent on the work of volunteers and staff dedicated effort to building our Staff are also involved in community and whose lives are enriched as a result. with Woden Rotary Daybreak Club. It I believe that Geoff is doing an excellent organisational capacity, believing that management committees and boards was a great success with a huge range In February the Board participated with job in recruiting and maintaining our to pursue improved service outcomes for a range of organisations providing The WCS Board has been a constant of stalls and activities to interest young senior staff in a planning afternoon where team of volunteers . His Volunteers for the people we work with by working diverse services throughout the ACT as source of support and guidance for the and old, from games which my two year the Business Plan was updated for the Newsletter is a great way of keeping with other organisations we first needed part of our commitment to a stronger and organisation. There have been a number old grandson enjoyed to information current year. This was a great opportunity all the volunteers in touch and Board to ensure that we could work well with viable community sector. of challenges during the organisation’s on falls prevention which I was keen for the Board to engage with the staff members enjoy reading it. Thank you also other WCS programs. We also needed renewal which the Board has managed to learn for my 95 year old mother. The and become familiar with the operation to all the volunteers who provide many to ensure that staff had the work We strengthened our service delivery positively, always with the best interests of day was beautiful and we had to share of the Service. Other activities where we essential services for our clients. environment and equipment to enable during the year by developing systems people who use WCS’s services, those who the crowds with quite a few other major joined with staff included training in the them to perform the work required. that assist with immediate response to provide them and the organisation itself. activities which were on in Canberra that new Occupational Health and Safety Act In writing this report I have singled out a few service requests and creating positions day so we didn’t get quite the numbers which is now in force. OH & S is now the activities and a few of the staff for mention. WCS took a leap towards improved that maintain a focus on service Government department officers in both we could have accommodated. It was responsibility of everyone including all I could write something noteworthy about service integration by renovating Woden improvement. WCS was one of a number the ACT and Australian Government well attended nevertheless and this year Board members and staff so the Board everyone and their many achievements Community Centre, tearing down the of agencies that received emergency have provided great support to WCS we hope that the appointment of our needs to know that the staff are taking but it would make a very long report. walls that divided its programs in small relief funding to assist people in financial over the past year. Thanks go to the new Communications Officer will mean their responsibilities seriously or it could be Although you are not mentioned offices and creating an open plan distress as a result of the world economic numerous individuals and organisations even greater success. I understand a scary prospect for the Board! individually it is not that I don’t recognise workspace, complete with modern downturn. This funding prompted us to that work with WCS to deliver programs that her planning is well underway and your contribution. I am well aware of the ergonomic furniture, up to date introduce an intake system that ensured and services. that she has achieved almost sufficient In July the Board joined in a farewell at dedication of all our team and I thank you computing and telephone systems. that people seeking assistance would be Lastly I would like to acknowledge the sponsorship to pay for the event. the Mawson Club for one of our very long for input to our organisation. More importantly the open plan not only seen immediately, and more importantly standing team leaders Chris Flaherty who enabled more staff to share the space, it actively linked to support services beyond people who use the services and access Emma and her team delivered another has given wonderful service in the HACC Woden Community Service has a long brought the teams together to share their the initial interaction. programs provided by Woden Community great community event at Easter which area. She will be sadly missed by many in tradition stated on the letterhead of work and the way they worked together. Service and the general community of my grandson and I also attended. When the Woden area who benefited from her Can we help you? Can you help us? WCS established a research and which we are an active part. I saw the crowds of children ready for expertise and long experience. All the staff and particularly our team WCS sought “horizontal program program development position which has the annual Easter egg hunt I wondered leaders are actively promoting this integration” by creating opportunities developed a results based accountability how on earth my shy little boy would This year we have survived the global ethos which has been about for forty for cross program work that assists framework and strengthened our ever manage to find an egg. I was financial crisis very well under the years now! I sincerely hope that our teams to achieve their own program evidence based approach to our delighted to find that Easter bunnies were guidance of Gary Daw who has provided motto continues to inspire us to work as outcomes and those of other programs work. We also established a Family everywhere sprinkling eggs just where a nervous Board with monthly reports on a truly community oriented organisation by working together and also sharing Connections position that is working with little people could scramble for them. our balance sheet that we can almost for many more years. program experience. There are now hard to reach families not engaged with The big people were accommodated understand. We are grateful to Gary strong working relationships and shared services and a communications position expertly as well. and his team for steering us through the service initiatives between programs, to produce the Woden Voice newsletter minefield of possible deficits to a healthy such as the Family Support Program and plan the 2009 Woden Valley In the New Year the Board completed outcome for the year. and the Personal Helpers and Mentors, Community Festival. an annual review of our Director’s “...I am one of a team a mental health program. performance in which the staff of very talented Board members who have worked together to oversee another year of successful initiatives and achievements...”
10 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | DIRECTOR’S REPORT 11 STAFF DEPARTURES IN 2008–2009
A number of staff left WCS CHRIS FLAHERTY MARIO GONZALEZ Team Leader of the Home and Community Development Team Leader during the year whose efforts Community Care Team who worked and contribution cannot go with WCS for over 22 years unrecognised: JILL RAFFERTY PETA FITZGIBBON Community Life Skills Support Worker Special Projects Officer who inspired and assisted much of the transformation FIONA DAY in the past year The Big Issue Program Manager
KRIS GORDON MICHELLE WILLCOCKS An original member of the Personal Helpers and Mentors Program The Big Issue Case Worker
NERALIE MITCHELL TERRY WARREN Lollipop Director and Children’s Lollipop worker Services Manager GAIL DAVIES ANTHEA NIELSEN HACC Community Transport Driver Lollipop Director
12 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | STAFF DEPARTURES IN 2007 – 2008 13 CHILDREN SERVICES EATING TOGETHER IS FUN!
Demand for Children’s Services LOLLIPOP CHILDREN’S CENTRE SCHOOL AGE CARE camps have been targeted at the older FAMILY DAY CARE SCHEME continues to be high. Retaining staff children who have been requesting and attracting trained permanent Constable Kenny Koala visited with Our six programs at Curtin, Farrer, more exciting and challenging LOLLIPOP CHILDREN’S CENTRE Constable Stuart in his police car. We Garran, Hughes, Red Hill and Torrens programs. Presently we are still the only staff remains a challenge for WCS, as learnt lots about road safety, stranger operate almost to capacity every day for all ACT children’s services. Neralie licensed vacation care program in SCHOOL AGE CARE danger and that police men and women and provide a safe environment with the ACT that offers a camp during the Mitchell has left WCS and the new are our friends. We heard the sirens and interesting, fun activities in a relaxed school holiday period. Manager of Children’s Services Susan saw the lights flash on the police car too! setting. Currently we have a total of 660 Henderson began in July 2009. children accessing our programs. Our During the July school holidays 2009 We celebrated Persian New Year in March, permanent staff for the programs are Nila we had a successful trip to the Thredbo FAMILY DAY CARE when families visited and we shared Chaleune, Katie Crawford, Brian Pearce, snowfields. Approximately 40 children special meals like traditional chicken and Nina Bennetts, Michael Aisbitt, Jocelyn attended and they made snow men, We have 34 carers who look after rice and yoghurt. We were lucky to have Duthie, Elise Bailey, Edie McLister, Vidya snow sculptures and had snow ball 180 children in the Woden area. We help from two of our families. Chandra, Mitchell Bartholomew, Alex games. It was such fun we plan to go have unmet need for more carers. Our Brown, Maree Walker and Arvind Williams. next year too! field workers visit carers’ homes on a In Children’s Week in October and for During the year we have had regular visits regular basis and carers can attend Grandparents Day, we joined in art from Children’s Policy and Regulation Our yearly ‘FUN DAY’ was held at Hughes playgroup every Tuesday and Thursday. and craft activities with our visitors, ate Unit (CPRU) to assist us maintain licensing Primary School in late 2008 during The WCS bus provides transport for together and showed off our playrooms. standards, as well as visits from the Children’s Week, and was extremely children and carers to the Weston Creek National Childcare Accreditation Council successful. All our School Age Care Community Hub centre so they can for quality practice assessments. These programs converge onto the one site to enjoy the activities and social contact of have all been successful and helpful. share in an afternoon of fun activities, playgroup. The children join in music, art, games and rides. Once again, Durkin games, craft and dramatic play activities During the warmer months of the Amusements supplied us with a giant as well as build, dig, draw, run, learn to school holiday period we offer a fun- slide, a trackless train and a jumping play together and have fun! Our staff filled camp, which is very popular with castle. In order for this event to take place of Jenny Pearce, Helen Sutton, Marion children aged between 8 and 12 years. each program participates in fundraising Donohue, Sonja Vuckovic, Janeen Barker In January 2009 we took a group out to events such as sleepovers, hotdog days, and Yvonne Weldon have worked hard the Googong Woolshed where children guessing competitions, car window this year to support our carers and have and staff alike had fun frolicking in washing, team challenges and children’s successfully passed accreditation and the mud and doing a bush walk to art work auctions. licensing visits. the London Bridge Archway. These
14 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | CHILDREN’S SERVICES 15 CHILDREN SERVICES (cont.)
Susan Henderson SCHOOL AGE CARE (cont.) Children’s Services Manager Currently Curtin, Farrer, Garran, Hughes, Involvement in the AASC Program and Torrens School Age Care are not only provides additional sporting Nila Chaleune involved with the Active After School equipment to our services and training for Administration Director School Communities Program. The goal of our staff, but also enables children to take this government-funded initiative is to part in new sporting experiences. Age Care encourage primary school age children Jenny Pearce to participate in physical activity at no cost to parents. The programs participate Family Day Care Manager in a variety of activities including Jelena Milosavljeic • European Handball Director Lollipop Children’s Centre • Mini Commandos
• Bom Funk
• Circus Skills
• Taekidokai
• Gymnastics
16 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | CHILDREN’S SERVICES 17 COMMUNITY LINKAGES AND DIRECTIONS TEAM
INTRODUCTION ASSISTANCE WITH CARE AND Key activities of the CDP included: Group Study Exchange Woden Voice SETTLEMENT GRANTS PROGRAM The Community Links and Directions HOUSING FOR THE AGED Woden Interagency The partnership that has been The Woden Voice – Woden’s community The Settlement Grants Program provides Team (affectionally known as CLAD) Assistance with Care and Housing for developed over the past three years, newsletter is distributed to the community assistance to refugees and humanitarian CDP facilitates the Woden Interagency consists of a variety of programs that the Aged assists older people who with the Rotary Club of Woden Daybreak four times a year providing a medium entry migrants to aid their settlement into – a quarterly meeting that provides a is committed to working towards an are financially disadvantaged, who has resulted in the selection of the CDP for expressing community news and the ACT. Service delivery is conducted wonderful opportunity for key groups and organisational approach based on are homeless or living in inappropriate worker in the Rotary International Group opinion and to help draw the community in a manner that provides these newly organisations that work with people in the asset based community development accommodation to access secure Study Exchange (GSE) Program. GSE together. Plans have been made to arrived migrants with the appropriate Woden Valley, to come together, network and encouraging all programs to long-term housing. The objective of the is a cultural and vocational exchange revamp the newsletter with a new linkages to various government and and share information and ideas. identify and work together as part of a program is to support older people to that provides an opportunity for team modern colour format. It appears from non-government agencies that will allow broader organisation. The philosophy of access services that may enhance their members to experience a different initial feedback that this style will be more them to integrate into the community. asset based community development independence and quality of life, whilst Heart Foundation Walking culture, within the context of visits that attractive to readers in the community. The Settlement Worker in turn provides works to identify individuals’, group’s are relevant to their profession. The CDP We also aim to change the way we support to service users in facilitating enabling them to live within the community. CDP has taken on the role of coordinator and communities’ capacities, skills and worker was fortunate to be selected distribute the newsletter from pamphlet these linkages, with the view toward for walking groups in the Woden Valley. strengths and encourages opportunities Throughout the financial year, the as part of the outgoing GSE team to distribution to distribution via Australia migrants gaining social independence This is a partnership with the Heart for people to participate at a local and program has supported service users, France in April-May 2009. This resulted Post. The intention behind this move is to and self-advocacy skills. Foundation, to encourage people to join regional level. over the age of 65, with a variety of in a unique opportunity for the CDP increase readership of the Woden Voice and/or start local walking groups. This is Covering the geographic area of the ACT housing and support needs. The program worker to visit a variety of services in now. Australia Post distribution does cost The CLAD team consists of the a great way to encourage people to be south of Lake Burley Griffin, the Settlement covers the geographic area of South South France, such as homeless shelters, more however thousands more homes following programs: connected to their community, as well as Grants Program has seen a high level of Canberra including Tuggeranong and food banks, institutes for people with and businesses will also gain access to Weston Creek regions. promoting good health and lifestyle goals. demand throughout this financial year in • Research and program a disability and youth and transitional the newsletter. comparison to the previous year. foster care programs. Feedback has development Ongoing shortages of Aged Persons Partnership with ACT Libraries Units, lengthy accommodation waiting been provided to staff on the lessons FAMILY CONNECTIONS An ACT public shortage of private learnt from this experience and potential and public accommodation remains • Volunteer Coordination lists and high rental prices in private CDP was approached by ACT Libraries This program was developed as a accommodation have continued to to facilitate a social group to encourage future direction for WCS. practical response to a piece of an overwhelming issue for all service exert pressures on older people within older people to access the Woden and users. This accommodation shortage • Community Linkages (CLP) research conducted by the Institute of the community. In addition, older people mobile libraries. Based on this, CDP has COMMUNICATIONS Child Protection Studies (2008), entitled is exacerbated by prolonged waiting with assets in excess of $40,000 are been working in partnership with Home ‘Working in the Grey’. The project’s main list for ACT Public Housing, resulting in • Sustaining Tenancy (STP) still not eligible for ACT Housing, thus and Community Care and Community Woden Valley Community Festival focus was to enhance support for families the Settlement Worker attempting to disadvantaging their lives within the Bus to organise this group. who formal systems find “hard to reach”. forge stronger links with other charitable The Woden Valley Community Festival was organisations and emergency • Settlement Grants (SGP) community, as their incomes often do not held successfully on Saturday 25 October at support the purchase of their own home Easter Egg Hunt The Family Connection program works accommodation providers. Eddison Park. Over 1500 people attended with families, who have children aged or private rental properties. This program is funded by the • Assistance with Care and Housing In partnership with the Community and it was a great opportunity for people 12 or under and live in the Woden Valley Commonwealth Department of for the Aged (ACHA) These issues, combined with an ageing Linkages Program and the Rotary Club to celebrate what it means to be part of area It is a case coordination program Immigration and Citizenship. The part- population within the Woden area, will of Woden Daybreak, the CDP hosted the the Woden Valley. The festival has now that aims to enable families to link into their time program provided support to 75 • Family Connections ensure the ongoing demand for the third annual Monster Easter Egg Hunt in become an annual community event, local communities by: clients from Africa, Middle East and ACHA Program into the future. April 2009. The day saw over 350 people thanks to support from the ACT Government Subcontinent. of all ages attend. Local organisations Festival Fund and other sponsors. • Providing information on what • Community Bus Mohammed Berjaoui and groups including Kids at Play, the Planning is well underway for the 2009 is available Mohammed Berjaoui • Communications Canberra Capitals and the CA Canberra Festival to be held once again at Eddison COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Brumbies participated in a variety of Park, on October 31. This year the festival • Referring into relevant services 2008-09 has seen a variety of innovative The Community Development Program activities. This event was promoted has a new theme – healthy communities, activities and initiatives developed and (CDP) works with people who live, work or widely as an opportunity for families to positive wellbeing and sustainable living. • Identifying and actively connecting participate within their local community, Settlement Grants Program implemented in the Woden Valley. I am study in the Woden Valley and the rural This theme has opened the door for a into local activities, education or in a fun event. Funded by: The Department of proud to be a small part of this amazing communities of Tharwa and the villages wider range of activities and sponsorship support services. team and look forward to providing of Stromlo, Uriarra and Pierces Creek. and we believe this will boost numbers Immigration and Citizenship further information or answering any The full time worker facilitates community attending. The aim of the theme is to questions you may have on these development activities that encourage encourage the Woden community to • Meeting at convenient places activities that are outlined hereafter. people experiencing poverty, isolation Assistance with Care and Housing embrace healthy living both individually for families For more information, please contact or social disadvantage to develop and collectively. It is anticipated that the Emma Walter on 6234 6820 or email: connections within their local community. for the Aged Funded by: The increased involvement of certain sectors Families accessed a range of formal and Community Development [email protected] Department of Health and Ageing of the community will assist in creating informal activities, such as Playgroups, Funded by: The Department of greater community cohesion. Tuggeranong Child and Family Centre, private psychologists and Heart Disability, Housing and Foundation Walking Groups. Community Services
18 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY LINKAGES AND DIRECTIONS TEAM 19 COMMUNITY LINKAGES AND DIRECTIONS TEAM (cont.)
VOLUNTEERS New volunteers are always welcome at Margaret O’Beirne and Ron Constance and form relationships with organisations The average length of time for a Centrelink to seek information from a Woden Community Service and we try are two WCS volunteers who were in the community. This will involve tenant to be engaged in the program broad range of organisations such as, In 2008/09 volunteers continued to to be flexible in matching the needs and nominated for ACT Volunteer of the Year meetings with organisations on how the is approximately three to six months, Legal Aid, Directions ACT, Carers ACT support the work of Woden Community interests of volunteers with the needs of Awards. Margaret was the winner of one service will run to benefit local residents. depending on the complexity of their and Parentline. Following the success of Service in a number of ways, all of which the community they support. of the award categories (Community needs and suitability and/or availability this initiative, Hubs are now being held have been greatly valued by WCS staff South). Both are shown here with Geoff The community bus program has of referral options. This program in Charnwood, Spence and Lanyon with and the community. CIT Students volunteer to produce Hayes (Volunteer Coordinator at Woden recently moved from the Home and operates within the organisation’s more planned for the Weston area in Community Care Program to the Volunteers contributed a total of communication strategy Community Service). philosophy of responsive service coming year. Community Linkages and Directions some 8000 hours of work for Woden delivery and as such does not have any WCS gratefully acknowledges the work Contact details for people interested in Team. This recognises the opportunity Residents Meetings: An opportunity Community Service during 2008/09 waiting list or restrictions on how long of three CIT students who volunteered to volunteering are listed on our website: that exists for the broader use of the for residents to meet with their Housing across a range of programs. tenants can receive support. develop a communication strategy to www.wcs.org.au bus. This is a time of transition and Managers and other services to We have nine volunteers who form the promote the use of our community bus. consolidation for the program, as it The success of this program to date identify common issues and discuss Geoff Hayes WCS community Board of Management Amy O’Callaghan, Andrew Murray begins to create its own identity within has depended upon the relationships potential solutions. which meets each month to provide WCS – separate from the existing built between Housing ACT and other and Kerrie Neilen are all final year Images (facing page, bottom): Ron Local community lunches and dinners: the strategic policy and financial transport services. support services. The program is looking students studying Communications at Constance, Geoff Hayes and Margaret These events provide a social opportunity management framework for the day forward to meeting the new and varied the Canberra Institute of Technology. O’Beirne. for residents to come together while to day and week to week management challenges that will emerge over the They undertook this project as volunteer COMMUNITY LINKAGES enjoying a meal and receiving of our work. participants in the Annual Public coming twelve months, including COMMUNITY BUS PROGRAM tenancy assistance to people living in information about topics they have During the year volunteers have also Relations Institute of Australia (ACT) identified as important. The AFP and 2008-09 saw the establishment of the The Community Linkages Program private rental accommodation. supported the following work areas: Student Challenge. Neighbourhood Watch are just two of the Woden Community Bus, a 22 seater bus comprises the Sustaining Tenancy The purpose of their project was to Program and Community Development Community Development for Public organisations that have come as guest • Community transport service: that is part of the regional bus service speakers to some of these events. produce a communication strategy funded through the ACT Government. for Public and Community Housing. and Community Housing shopping and friendly visiting: aimed at raising awareness within the Sustaining Tenancy Program The Community Development Program Christmas Dinner: Following the success supporting elderly people to community of a relatively new community The purpose of this program is to of the inaugural Christmas Dinner in 2006, operate a flexible bus service for works with tenants in Woden and continue to live independently in bus service, for people who are isolated The Sustaining Tenancy Program organised in partnership with the Rotary people in the Woden area who are Weston Creek, including the villages of their own homes. or are not able to use the current service (STP) supports public and community Club of Woden Daybreak, WCS hosted socially isolated, lack transport options, Pierces Creek, Stromlo and Uriarra. The provided by ACTION. housing tenants who reside on the the third annual dinner for tenants to or have confidence and mobility issues. program aims to assist tenants to address Southside of Canberra. This program celebrate the season together. • Social respite groups: providing Amy O’Callaghan has agreed to It is to complement and not duplicate social isolation by encouraging them can coordinate services by: outings and social contact for continue this voluntary work, to the current ACTION service. to engage with their neighbours and CLP relies on strong partnerships to groups of elderly and other implement this strategy as part of her final • Identifying services to assist wider community. This includes providing ensure initiatives get off the ground. The A variety of groups and individuals isolated or disadvantaged groups. year studies at the CIT. individuals and families opportunities for tenants to seek program would like to thank Housing ACT, have utilised this service to date. Nine information and learn new skills and WCS would like to thank Amy, Andrew Community Linkages Providers, Conflict groups have accessed the community • Referral to other agencies/support assisting them to realise any ideas they • English conversation classes: for and Kerrie for their work which will help Resolution Service, Directions ACT, Legal bus, including several elderly villages, services have to improve their local community. recently arrived migrants and other us improve the use of this community Aid, Carers ACT and other WCS programs an art group, shopping excursions, including The Woden Youth Centre, people interested in improving the bus service. sporting clubs, schools, service clubs • Advocacy by supporting and Over the past 12 months some of the key English language skills. representing tenants when required activities residents have been involved Sustaining Tenancy, Family Connections, Images (facing page, top): Andrew and a family day care playgroup. in are: PHaMS and Community Development. Murray, Amy O’Callaghan and • and Providing an outreach service • The Woden Youth Centre CLP has also enjoyed support from the Kerrie Neilen. This program has a strong focus on Tenant Initiated Grants: Now in its third providing programs and activities These groups use the bus for varying year the TIG is a Housing ACT initiative Rotary Club of Woden Daybreak in for young people. Woden Community Service interests, such as recreation, exhibitions, early intervention to avoid or alleviate initiatives such as the Christmas Dinner issues which may result in housing debt. that provides funds to tenants to improve celebrates National Volunteer Week lunches and other social activities. their community. 2008/09 saw three and Easter Egg Hunt (run in partnership • Family Support : Providing support Individuals also use the bus for their The STP gives support to tenants who groups of tenants complete a range of with Community Development). Without During National Volunteer Week (11-17 the dedication of the Rotary volunteers to parents and families who might own interests as well as medical are identified at risk of entering the projects including the installation of a May 2008) Woden Community Service appointments and other commitments. eviction cycle. The program often assists gazebo for community gatherings, the and the generosity of their donations be struggling with some aspects of took the opportunity to acknowledge the In total 3847 trips were conducted raised through these activities, tenants family life. tenants who are experiencing severe organisation of several social gatherings contribution our volunteers make to the during the year. financial hardship, neighbourhood and the second year of the Access to across the Woden Valley and Weston community of people who live and work would not be able to enjoy these great An ongoing issue of the bus is to ensure issues, emotional distress, drug/alcohol Art program; a program which enables • The Lollipop Childcare Centre: in the Woden Valley. issues and/or mental health issues. STP tenants across Canberra to join in art events. The program looks forward to people within the community know continuing work with these and other providing childcare services to WCS programs celebrated this week with acts as a conduit between tenants and courses in recognised studios and classes. about the service. WCS engaged local partners on various community initiatives people who live or work in Woden. their volunteers in a number of different Housing ACT and aims to strengthen CIT students in the development of a Information Hub: In partnership with in years to come. ways: with morning or afternoon teas, tenant’s abilities to maintain long-term These are just typical examples of promotional strategy. This includes not Woden Centrelink, the Hub continues lunches, surprise parties and presentations. secure accommodation. the ways in which volunteers support only raising the awareness and profile of to be held each month. 2009 has their community. the community bus service in the Woden Since the program’s commencement seen the hub located at the Woden Valley region but to also gain support 336 referrals have been received. At Centrelink office which has provided an present 35 of these referrals are active. ideal opportunity for people accessing
20 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY LINKAGES AND DIRECTIONS TEAM 21 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY LIFE SKILLS (CLS) CLS has suffered the passing of a long Other training included “Actually Doing There is a BBQ at the Woden Community Promotion of The Big Issue is important CLS Staff: Matthew Gallagher, term and much respected service user, - Really Achieving”. This workshop Service every second Monday to launch in ensuring that there is good public Dawne Ballard, Jennifer Community Life Skills (CLS) is a community Charles Jobbins. looked at practical ways for support the new issue of the magazine. This awareness of the purpose and content of Rosewarne, Ximena Garces, Lesley access and life skill development workers to teach skill base development provides an opportunity for vendors to the magazine. Promotion is also important program for adults living with a disability. Karen Johnson and Jane Benson to service users using a multitude catch up with each other and with staff. for organisations in the community sector Theuma, Amanda Degrave, Julie Eligibility requires that people are aged have entered the program, being the of approaches. The workshop was Vendors can also drop by the office that may refer potential vendors. The Krueger, Damien Wright, Ron 18-65, living within the ACT region and successful applicants to make it through conducted by John Armstrong. any morning for a cup of coffee and program manager spoke at a number of Jackson, Ben Davies are perceived to have high support the usual process of electing new to talk to staff, and team members visit forums and was interviewed on radio 2XX. needs. The goal of CLS is to support service users. CLS took part in many activities during the vendors while they are selling. Support The case manager also attended forums CLS Funded by: Disability ACT, people enhance their lives through social past year including the Royal Canberra for vendors is provided through these of community organisations, particularly Department of Disability Housing inclusion, skill development and the CLS was approached by Disability Show, Summernats, Prime Minister’s IX, informal conversations, as well as more those in the homelessness sector. gaining of valued roles. ACT to expand service to assist with a Floriade, sporting events and our own formal referrals. and Community Service service shortfall for school leavers. Four Christmas lunch which was well attended A key objective of the program is to Community Life Skills provides support to young people were provided supported by service users, present and past support For over half of 2008-09, the Program promote social inclusion. This is not 29 people - 27 are provided support from community access which commenced workers, group house staff and families. Manager worked alone, taking on case only through selling the magazine, but government block funding. Twenty-four in May 09. All of these new service users worker duties as well as manager duties. other activities involving vendors and people receive nine hours support weekly have settled into the program very well Our sincere thanks go to all the CLS This limited the scope for organizing others who may be marginalized and The Big Issue Funding body: and three people receive six hours and are enjoying the huge variety of support workers for a job well done, to additional outings for vendors. However, disadvantaged. The Big Issue continued Department of Disability, Housing support weekly. Each person receives community activities that CLS offers. Chris Redmond , Sharon White, Kerry in the period, there was an increase its association with the Jumping Gateway and Community Services a minimum of one individual support Bargas and the finance team at WCS for in the number of vendors selling the Choir, with the case manager and a session per week with the remainder of WCS introduced a number of new their ongoing support. Thanks also to all magazine and in magazines sold, from number of vendors attending rehearsals. The Big Issue Program Manager: scheduled hours conducted in small initiatives into the CLS program during the who I work with at WCS and who make an average of eight vendors and 770 In addition, the Big Issue staff supported groups not exceeding ratios of 2:3. Two last year. These include two new vehicles working a pleasure. magazines a fortnight in July-December the establishment of the Street Soccer Fiona Day (to September 2008), John other people access CLS support using and increased allowances as an attempt 2008, to an average of 11 vendors and program in Canberra in April, through Brotchie (from September 2008) brokered agreements. Both people are to reduce the real cost of providing Dawne Ballard 1,100 magazines in January-June 2009. helping promote the program within provided three hours access per week. support for CLS support workers. Canberra. Street Soccer is run by The Big The Big Issue Case Worker/ THE BIG ISSUE While most magazines are sold in Civic, Issue Australia and uses the power of sport Some of our achievements include a Woden and Belconnen, other suburban Manager: Michelle Willcocks With a strong commitment to the The Big Issue is a fortnightly magazine to promote social inclusion and personal photography exhibition by one of our pitches can also provide opportunities change for people who are homeless, (to September 2008), Julie Evans principles of Social Role Valorisation service users, a continued relationship sold by vendors around Canberra, who (SRV), the program’s focus is to to reach many new customers. A vendor marginalized and disadvantaged. (from May 2009) with the Brumbies, more supported are in effect running their own business. returned to selling in Curtin after a assist service users to gain social It provides an employment opportunity Participants come together once a volunteer work for service users, including period of absence, and was assisted week for soccer training and matches. In acceptance and a sense of one service user becoming a volunteer for people who are homeless, at risk of by Beyond Q bookshop and café homelessness, long-term unemployed Canberra, these sessions are held in Reid community belonging, through for the RSPCA and a consistent approach agreeing to act as a distribution point for Oval, every Wednesday afternoon. their ongoing participation and to skills development. CLS nominated the or otherwise disadvantaged. Vendors magazines. A new pitch was established engagement with all facets of Brumbies for a social inclusion award to buy magazines for $2.50 from distribution at Weston Creek with Communities@ The success of The Big Issue is dependent their community. thank players and all others involved with points and then sell the magazine for Work acting as the distribution point. This on the support of many organisations. the club for their ongoing support of a $5. In addition to the income, this work pitch has proved to be very popular with In particular, the program relies on the Service is provided on an individual and CLS service user. is also valuable in providing social a number of vendors. assistance of distribution points where small group basis. CLS encourages the inclusion through the connection with the vendors can buy magazines, and for development and retention of skills and One CLS support worker with other staff customers who buy the magazine. Following the arrival of the new case this we thank The Body Shop in Woden relationships relevant to the individual members of WCS attended a conference manager, a meeting of Big Issue vendors and Civic, The Music Shop in Belconnen service user. in December focused on Asset Based The Big Issue magazine is produced in reviewed the Code of Conduct and other Melbourne by The Big Issue Australia and Mall, the Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Community Development. Many of the documentation. Most of the guidelines Beyond Q in Curtin and Communities@ As another year has passed it is time principles learnt are already being used by the program is managed in Canberra were affirmed, but some changes were by a program manager and case Work in Weston Creek. Thanks also to the to reflect upon the achievements and CLS and others are being implemented. made with the input of vendors. It is staff of Woden Community Service, who changes within the CLS program. Staff worker/manager in Woden Community important that vendors are comfortable Service. This team supports vendors welcome and support vendors in many that have come onboard are Stuart Poole with the Code of Conduct and see it as different ways. Photos taken by (again), Ben Davies, Amanda Degrave not just by providing equipment and offering important and realistic guidance Edmund Fenton- and Julie Krueger. training, distributing magazines and for their role as vendors of the magazine. Finally, the staff at The Big Issue would organizing places to sell (‘pitches’), but like to thank the vendors for all their Morris, a vendor also by providing support for vendors with The Big Issue hard work, as reflected in the substantial in addressing other issues they may increase in sales in the past year, as well Canberra, who usually encounter in their lives. as their many personal achievements. sells around Civic and Dickson.
22 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 23 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS (cont.)
WODEN YOUTH CENTRE Woden Youth Centre staff, musicians Woden Youth Centre Funding and young people would like to Body: Department of Disability, Woden Youth Centre (WYC) is a acknowledge and sincerely thank Housing and Community Services multipurpose drop-in facility which the Woden Community Service board provides information, support and referral members for approving corporate funds and Office for Children, Youth and services for young people aged 12-25 for the purchase of a sound and lighting Family Support. years. Woden Youth Centre aims to system in June this year. This purchase assist young people to make informed has already proven to be a major asset in decisions, enhance resilience and running WYC music events. develop support networks. Images (facing page, second and third Drop-in provides recreational activities rows): Astrochem performing at the including; pool tables, table tennis, fundraising event on the 31st July 2009 and basket ball, boxing equipment, play Photographs of fundraising event on the station two, internet, job board, band 22nd May 2009. room (musical instruments), fortnightly band nights and a range of scheduled School Holiday Program centre based and school holiday programs. The youth centre also provides During a school holiday program activity These are few of the case management and individualised young people participated in paintball many significant at Paintball Sports in Fairburn. This activity outreach programs to schools, colleges achievements Woden and the broader community. encouraged team building, promoted sportsmanship and friendly rivalry. This is Youth Centre and the Community Supported one of a range of social and recreational Community Supported Respite Program programs offered to young people during Respite program have school holiday periods. The Community Supported Respite achieved in 2008/2009. program provides community access Images (facing page, fourth row): activities during school term and holidays Photographs of young people for young people aged 12 – 25 years with participating in paintball. an intellectual disability living at home with family/carers or guardians. Volunteer Week The program offers young people a range Betty Shaw and Ian Lynch have been of activities, social occasions and group volunteers with Woden Youth Centre for events to facilitate positive community approximately 10 years. In their voluntary inclusion that is age appropriate. capacity, Betty and Ian operate the youth centre’s cafe on Thursdays and Fridays Images (facing page, top row): and provide support to the youth centre Photographs of Declan (Botanical team and young people. Gardens), Sharon & Michael (Jindabyne). Betty and Ian were proudly presented Band Events awards for Volunteer Week in appreciation of their outstanding Woden Youth Centre band nights provide commitment to young people and opportunities for youth bands to perform Woden Youth Centre. and develop skills in coordinating music events on a fortnightly basis. Images (facing page, bottom row, left): Betty and Ian with their volunteer awards. Woden Youth Centre has held three fundraising events during this financial year raising almost three thousand dollars for an 11 year old girl in Ghana to support her educational costs, an orphanage in Nairobi (Emmanuel Kedogo Rescue Centre) for street kids aged seven – nineteen years and for a local year ten student to travel to Vietnam with her class to assist an orphanage in Hanoi.
24 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 25 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS (cont.)
WODEN YOUTH CENTRE (cont.) PERSONAL HELPERS AND Another is our collaboration with the Perhaps the last word from us should FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM Personal Helpers and Mentors Women’s Centre for Health Matters come from one of our most active Program Funding Body: National Youth Week - Youth InterACT MENTORS PROGRAM (WCHM) on developing a peer participants, Richard Glinka, who has The program is successfully building Department of Families, Housing, Conference Film Project The Personal Helpers and Mentors support group specifically for women kindly given us permission to publish a a referral base in the area of higher needs families and individuals through Community Services & Indigenous program (PHaMs) is a national, experiencing mental health issues. recent composition of his: The annual youth InterACT Conference community based mental health The focus of the group is on safe self- developing positive working relationships Affairs (FaHCSIA) was held on the 3rd April 2009 at the outreach service which supports people disclosure which includes discussion, There is Help and collaborative programs with Youth Ainslie ART Centre. The theme for this aged 16 years and over whose ability writing, journaling and other creative Services, Care and Protection Officers, the Personal Helpers and Mentors year’s conference was “Redefine 09” to manage daily activities and to live pursuits. This pilot program will help Thank you for helping me out! Personal Helpers and Mentors Program, Program Staff: Louise Kearins, Mark and focused on generating discussion independently in the community is inform the research being undertaken Thank you for getting me well! Victim Support ACT, Domestic Violence on issues that impact on young people; seriously affected by the experience of for the collaborative project we have Thank you to all of you as well; for Crisis Service, Specialist Services for Bothe, Leila Cormick, Keith Mahar, promote youth inclusion, participation Men, Parentline, Centrelink, Barnardos, Bruce Stephenson and Paul Russell mental illness. The Woden Community been involved in with the Mental helping when I was in hell and gained feedback for Government Service PHaMs program operates for Health Community Coalition, WCMH Thank you for the magical pills Marymead and through providing case on issues of importance to young people. people living in Woden, Weston Creek and Canberra University. Another of I need to take them co-ordination services as part of the Interactive workshop topics included the and Tuggeranong. Currently we are our team (a Peer Support worker) has Life is much better thanks to the pills! Integrated Family Support Program (IFSP). perception of youth in the media, binge supporting over 50 people who come been researching further innovative I can almost see that I can stay well; drinking culture, youth mental health from all walks of life and demographics, approaches to peer support. This The past 12 months have been a and well being, environment-a climate The tablets do help me and my busy period with increased demand Family Support Program Program showing there are few degrees of includes developing a self-help group thoughts to be! Manager: Ben Johnson for change and cyber bullying. These separation in the field of mental health. for men to challenge stigma, foster from families and individuals seeking interactive workshops aimed to engage Participants work with their own mentor, discussion on recovery and increase I feel like I have no time to waste. assistance through Woden Community Family Support Program Funded young people in discussion and were a member of the PHaMs team, who opportunities for social networks. We It’s Monday again; like two days ago Service Emergency Relief and Carers designed to teach new skills that were Funds. The second half of the year by: Office for Children Youth supports them on their unique journeys can also report that approval has been How many Mondays are left in life? resilience and recreation based. of recovery – helping them overcome granted from a Mental Health Services Mondays forever would be kind reflected a busy period of time in and Family Support, Department barriers to living valued and fulfilled lives Research centre at the University of of nice! the program. January work flow was Two young people from Woden Youth of Disability, Housing and in their own communities. Marylands in the USA for piloting a steady coming out of a holiday period, Centre, Alyesha McCudden and Carla Images (below left to right): February and March were busy because Community Services program for a group of our PHaMs Enright were invited to video record The PHaMs team comprises six workers participants with a focus on reducing The WCS Art Group; and the “Women the Integrated Family Support Project and produce a short film showcasing which includes five full-time and one part- internalised stigma and its impact Supporting Women” Group presented a number of complex case the conference. The final product will time worker, two Peer Support workers on recovery. management issues. May and June be screened on the Office for Children, and a growing membership of those brought the increased need for support Youth and Family Support website. who support our peer support initiatives, PHaMs looks forward to continuing our coming into winter and the Global including PHaMs participants. The team contribution to Woden Community Financial Crisis creating more need in Images (previous page, bottom row, right): reflects the diversity of our work and a Service’s vision of supporting, developing general throughout the community. Photograph of Alyesha editing. variety of life experiences, education, skills and celebrating community strength. and training. We are fortunate to have a Cafe stable and very committed team as well As part of the Community Supported as having in the past year welcomed two Respite program, Sharon Champion and new workers with established experience Michael Frazer operate the youth centre’s in the community mental health sector. cafe on Mondays and Wednesdays during term time. Michael and Sharon A key element of the PHaMs program are responsible for general operations is its emphasis on community support including; serving customers, stock take and social inclusion as an integral part and purchasing, preparing menu items, of recovery from mental illness. As well operating the cash register and other as our one on one work with individuals general duties. of the program, the WCS Art Group continues with participants who have Images (previous page, second last row): attended the group since its inception as Photographs of Sharon and Michael well as attracting new participants. It is operating the cafe. one of our key peer support initiatives.
Sindy Pearson Youth Services Manager
26 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 27 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS (cont.)
HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE We have four team members providing An important event for the HACC program HACC RURAL REPORT 2009 people of Tharwa and surrounding areas. Home and Community Care case management amounting to 3037 this year was the external audit conducted These events offer an opportunity for the (HACC) Funding Body: Federal The Home and Community Care Program hours of direct service for the year, just by Australian Healthcare Associates The last 12 months have seen the HACC broader community who may otherwise Department of Health and Ageing supports people who are frail aged a little above our contract of 2941 hours. on behalf of ACT Health. It was a huge Rural program maintain close links with seldom get together, to come to the hub with a disability, younger people with a People living in the rural areas are well exercise involving a self assessment people in Southern ACT rural settlements. of their community at the Tharwa hall. and ACT Health disability and carers of both. supported with case management initially, followed by a full day spent with We facilitate several community-building Home and Community Care 268 hours, social support 279 hours and an assessor. Some positive, continuous activities on an ongoing basis, and when Woden Community Service was Woden Community Service receives purchased domestic assistance 183 hours. improvement suggestions were made a special need arises. represented by Emma Walter and Robyn (HACC) Staff: Chris Flaherty HACC funding to provide case as well as some policy changes that Rutherford at celebrations for the Tharwa (Program Manager), Stephanie management, centre based activities, The groups have been going very well needed to be addressed. All action items Monthly Lanyon get togethers continue Bridge re-opening in September 2008. Tolson (Case Manager), Lorraine transport support to people living in and providing exciting activities and have now been completed well ahead to be a valuable forum at which old This was a momentous occasion for the the Woden area and in the bush fire fun for people who are more isolated in of schedule. friends and neighbours keep in touch, Tharwa community, who can now once Moises (Groups Coordinator), Linda affected rural areas south of the ACT. the community. Groups run on Monday, offer each other support and share again freely drive a much more direct Peers (Transport Coordinator), We also receive client services funding Tuesday, Stroke Club Wednesday and We look forward to the year ahead information. Numbers at this gathering route in and out of their town. WCS put Bob Lamb (Relief driver and to purchase domestic assistance, two groups on Friday. working co-operatively with HACC can vary from six up to 12 and the on a BBQ for the community, which was personal care and social support. and other agencies across the sector wintery weather is no deterrent for a wonderful way to get gather residents accounts), Brian Sclater (Driver), Our Friday Ladies group and Southpaw to provide the very best outcomes for people – the colder days being spent from far and wide back to the hub of this Wilhelm Speldewinde (Driver), The figures for the last financial year show Stroke Club received funding from our service users. fireside in the beautiful Lanyon café. thriving community for the celebration. Robyn Rutherford (Case Manager that we have not met our contracted the Federal Department of Health The 2nd stage of work begins on the outputs for purchased hours. Earlier this and Ageing allowing both groups to I would like to thank the team who have HACC funding also continues to support bridge in the near future and the Tharwa covering rural areas also), Mavis year we were lucky enough to receive continue and enhance their activities all worked very hard and supported a number of rural clients with domestic community has been reassured there will Angove (Friday Group Coordinator), significant growth monies to provide over the year. However in June this each other. Their efforts and energy assistance, transport and social support. only be minimal disruptions to traffic flow. Gail Davis (Driver - Left 2009) more hours of service. We only received year the Southpaw Stroke Club finally have helped us to achieve our main Distance to medical facilities and the growth monies recently but the new came to an end after 22 years. In spite objectives and outputs to provide very services can be an issue for some living The year ahead should see the amounts are reflected in the contract. This of extensive promotion, there were no positive outcomes for the people we away from town centres, and WCS completion of residential building does mean we will have good resources new participants recruited to the group are supporting. transport has been used this year to works out at Stromlo settlement and the to carry forward into the new financial resulting in the participants calling it assist in getting family members from continuing rural residential development year and we will be able to meet our a day. A special celebration was held Chris Flaherty rural areas to appointments and to the of Uriarra. WCS will continue in its contract in the months to come. with past volunteers, participants, guest Lanyon morning tea gathering. important role in community-building speakers and entertainers invited. activities with the residents of these rural Domestic Although it was quite a sad occasion In addition, HACC coordinates and funds ACT communities. Assistance everyone enjoyed the day. barbeques at the Tharwa Community Hall on an ongoing basis. These evenings Robyn Rutherford Contract is 139 people 2486 hours Transport has again proved to be very are also supported by The Salvation 3805 hours of service Army, who are also familiar faces for the provided much in demand and reliant on a few committed volunteers as well as Social our paid drivers. We have provided Support 10421 transports throughout the year Contract is 26 people 743.5 hours and supported 337 people. Shopping 969 hours of service assistance is also an increasing need in provided the community. Using our Ford Transit bus Personal we are able to provide significant support Care with shopping. The fortnightly trip to Aldi is very popular and now includes lunch Contract is 16 people 664 hours 1436 hours of service and visits to other shops as well. provided
28 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 29 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS (cont.)
HACC TUESDAY RESPITE GROUP Guest speakers include: I wish to thank the Pastor and his assistant Over the last year the three HACC funded Funding for 2008-2009 was obtained HACC Tuesday Respite Group for the use of the Lutheran Church Hall, vehicles together with volunteers travelled from the Department of Health and Funded by: ACT Health Tuesday Group has had another • Vital Call personal alarm system excellent kitchen facilities and support over 94534 kilometres. This figure does Ageing. The maximum number of women successful year of entertaining activity, given to Tuesday Group which enables us not include the kilometres travelled attending is 14 but due to the age and HACC Tuesday Respite Group support, encouragement and friendship. • Alzheimers Association to keep to a high standard of quality and by a few volunteers who do not claim physical health of the women average Staff: Stephanie Tolson, Lorraine Tuesday Group also continues to success. Toilet renovations and a new reimbursement. The total number of attendance is 7.8. Sadly we lost one of our Moises, Mavis Angove welcome new members with an average • Mobility Matters footramp are being put in which will add drives for the year amounted to 10421. participants who joined the group at the attendance between 15 – 25 people. to the comfort and safety of service users. Service was provided to 337 people and very beginning and at 93 was the eldest Ages range from 65 years through to 90 HACC Tuesday Respite Group • ACTEW on gardening and water volunteers donated 1535 hours to support of the women. years. The weekly format has a flexible A big thank you to Michael Devic who is our service users. Volunteers: Helen Nastopoulous, structure and revolves around morning conservation always so pleasant and helpful setting up Mobility is a problem for outings but the Helen Poon, Michael Devic, tea and conversation, followed by an the tables at the Lutheran Church Hall for Our Community Lunches are still well group has had three excursions for lunch. Danny McCheane activity or guest speaker. A nutritious • Trips to National Parks Tuesday Group. attended. The Statesman Hotel in Most of the meetings have had outside home cooked meal is a welcome Curtin is proving a very successful entertainers, speakers and a variety of highlight of the day for the participants. • Author telling us about her Mills & We look very much forward to venue. Lunches are held three times a activities such as craft, games, poetry Boon books continuing with Tuesday Respite Group year with acceptances totalling up to reading, jokes and quizzes all of which Tuesday Group program includes: during the coming year which many 60 people who thoroughly enjoy the have kept the women entertained, more enjoyable outings and interesting occasion. Transport is provided for most informed and amused. HACC Transport Funded by: The Activities: • Footsure – caring for your feet guest speakers. of the people attending and volunteers Federal Department of Health and • community transport service: assist staff to support our service users This group relies on volunteers to assist • Chinese medicine A very big thank you to all the dedicated on the day. each week with the group as well as Ageing and ACT Health shopping volunteers who do such a great job of volunteer drivers to transport the women supporting and helping Tuesday Group. Our volunteers are an essential part of to and from their homes to the centre. HACC Transport Staff: Linda Peers • lunch at the Woden Tradies Seminars I have attended during the year include: Woden Community Service. Without their Betty Lee and Helen Nastopolous have (Coordinator), Brian Sclater (Driver), Stephanie Tolson dedication we would not be able to been volunteers for many years and Wilhem Speldewinde (Driver), Bob • craft with Beryl • ACTCOSS service delivery and operate as effectively, or provide such a their efforts are very much appreciated. Lamb (Relief Driver), Gail Davies the law HACC TRANSPORT flexible and responsive service. One of Another volunteer, Dannie McCheane, (left during the year), 14 volunteers • belly dancing with Marika The HACC Transport program operates our drivers Gail Davies has left the HACC moved north during the year and her • Professional strategies for dealing from 8.30 – 4.30 Monday to Friday team and we are very lucky to have input is greatly missed. Bob Lamb step in to help with driving • items from different things from with hotheads and other cranky providing transport to people who are Outcomes from the program have frail aged with a disability, younger and relief driving. Finally, I would like to the past people thank my colleagues for their support all been positive. The women keep in people with disabilities and carers of both contact through the week by telephone, who live in the Woden area. Transport is throughout what has been another very • a bus trip to Hall Village School • HACC Standards Appraisal Training busy and productive year. conversation is lively, they sing with guest and Museum provided by three drivers and a group of singers, suggest poems to be read, have dedicated hardworking volunteers. The • ACT AAG seminar – pills, potions or Linda Peers very healthy appetites and have in their focus of the HACC transport tends to be Transport Co-ordinator words “a lovely day”. • music with Alex & Betty poisons/medications for older people on assisting people to attend medical appointments but with extra resources, FRIDAY WOMEN’S GROUP Mavis Angove • the always popular bingo • five day core health promotion we are able to provide transport to Coordinator short course activities, social events and to assist The Friday Group caters for the more people with shopping. senior women in the Woden community. • Multicultural aged care health expo The aim is to provide socially isolated Transport requests have been very busy women with the opportunity for social HACC Friday Women’s Group for the HACC team this year. Our 12 • Dementia network – what’s new and interaction, an avenue to meet and Funded by: The Department of seater bus is frequently used for transport, form friendships, to be entertained and/ current in Alzheimers medication shopping and outings. Other programs or educated by singers, dancers, craft Health and Ageing have also booked the bus for their own demonstrators, speakers covering a wide • Workshop – when is risk risky activities. Service users are very happy to range of topics including health, nutrition pay the $3 each way fee and no-one is and travel. Providing links to community refused service if they are unable to pay organisations and service providers on the day. is helpful in preventing depressive symptoms caused by social isolation. A nutritious morning tea and lunch with discussions on the benefits of fresh food has renewed an interest in cooking simple healthy meals.
30 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 31 COMMUNITY PROGRAMS (cont.)
SOCIAL SUPPORT FOR CENTRE Masonic Village residents continue to Social Support for Centre Based meet on a regular basis. Attendance for Groups Funded by: ACT Health BASED GROUPS this group varies from week to week with (Southpaw Stroke Club Funded by: The Woden Community Service groups 8 – 15 people participating in activities The Federal Department of Health are generally run in the community during the year. rooms for older persons that are situated and Ageing) throughout the Woden area. The groups The Southpaw Stroke Club has are targeted at elderly people who are unfortunately concluded due to the Social Support for Centre Based isolated, live alone or come from culturally number of members decreasing and the Groups Staff: Lorraine Moises, and and linguistically diverse backgrounds. group consequently deciding that they Bob Lamb no longer wished to continue. The group Over the past year, the number of hours was meeting at Hughes Community Social Support for Centre Based provided in our programs has generally Centre every Wednesday, had been remained steady. We have had some running successfully for over 20 years and Groups Volunteers: Kaye Mayberry great entertainment including guest was supported by some very committed (Friday Group), Margaret O’Biern speakers, musical entertainers, gentle volunteers. Recently the group hosted (Stroke Club), Robyn Anderson exercise, BBQs, picnics and bus trips to a luncheon where past members were various locations. invited. There was a lot of reminiscing and (Stroke Club), Betty Eddy (Stroke old friendships rekindled. Club), Miriam Kunkler (Stroke Club) The bus trips are particularly well received, and the participants usually Lorraine Moises choose where they would like to visit. Co-ordinator Participants look forward to and enjoy the community groups. The groups are a special social gathering – and may be the only social contact that some of the participants have each week.
However, there have been a number of changes to the community groups this year.
The Friday Group at the former Melrose Primary School, Chifley, has recently moved to the Lutheran Church Hall in Lyons. This move primarily occurred due to lower rental costs, however the accommodation at this venue was also found to be more suitable. Participants at this group have increased from around 12 to 18 over the past year.
32 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | COMMUNITY PROGRAMS 33 HUMAN RESOURCES, IT FINANCE REPORT & WORK ENVIRONMENT
Human Resources, Information Technology and Work Environment Human Resources procured to provide photo identification The 30th June 2009 financial statements The trading conditions in the first six cards for both staff and volunteers. The for Woden Community Service Inc. which months experienced disappointing Nick Ilic and Stuart Hogan Human Resource Management guides proposed Intranet is scheduled for early appear on the following pages discloses revenue/cost ratios. This trend was and policies continue to be developed 2010. In the interim, as a forerunner to the a surplus of $108,646 for the year. This corrected which saw the ratios improve and/or refined. A number on new HR Intranet, a WCS wide shared drive will be result was achieved, as was the case last greatly in the second six month period guides were developed including a established. Over 250 requests for internal year, from our fee based programs and allowing WCS to return a surplus albeit Services Guide, a Recognition and IT support were received and completed. investment income. No profit is generated at 2.9% of income only. This turnaround Appreciation Program and a Learning or loss incurred from our government in the second six months we expect will and Development Plan. An internal audit Work Environment funded programs. The fee based flow into the next financial year. was conducted to assess compliance programs are operated along commercial of our employment instrument, the MOU, An OH&S Policy was developed and principles as this source of profit provides I would like to thank the accounting Pay Allowances and Conditions of an OH&S Committee established. the platform to reinvest in the community and finance staff for their dedicated Service Guide. A new MOU was prepared Workplace Safety Representatives were and staff development programs. and professional support and enormous to cover financial years 2009 to 2012 appointed and trained. To support OH&S contribution during the year. This team is which will be voted on November 2009 compliance, a number of safety audits of Points of interest: small and services a very high number of by staff together with a new Multiple key work areas were undertaken by an programs with annual revenue of $ 7.5m. Enterprise Agreement (MEA). Up to 40 external consultant. The refurbishment of • Strong net assets at 30/6/09 To achieve the service delivery expected community agencies are expected to Central Office including a new reception $1.644m it follows that this unit would need to be sign up to the new MEA. WCS’s Business area was completed. Every staff a happy and cohesive group which I am Plan goals were revised and prioritised member is now equipped with the latest • Comfortable net liquid assets pleased to say is that and more. together with the introduction of a new communication, information technology at 30/6/09 $0.975m Project Implementation Plan and Business equipment and ergonomic work stations. I very much look forward to the year Tracker. The HACC program was assisted • Modest surplus of $108,646 ahead with Chris Redmond our Director, and the Board in achieving their goals during an external audit which was compared to last year of $188,369 arranged by program stakeholders. A and aims. number of new policies and procedures were developed to ensure WCS complied • Difficult trading conditions in Gary Daw with requirements as specified in the Children Services contributed to Finance Manager audit assessment documents. net profit decline of $80,000 for the year despite revenue increase Information Technology of $0.750m
The installation of our new computer • Net profit percentage on fee system and office software was completed. A new email client ‘Zimbra’ based / other operating income was trialled and a survey of the involved for the 30/6/09 year was 2.9% staff completed. Transition of remaining compared to 5.5% last year staff is being planned for completion by the end of 2009. It provides advanced functions such as room bookings, scheduling of meetings, car booking and file sharing. The Annex and Central Office were linked by a fibre optic cable. The Youth Centre will be linked into a virtual private network as soon as equipment issues are resolved. An IT based digital identification system was
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60 Woden Community Service Inc. 2007 – 2008 Annual Report | FINANCE REPORT 61 700%00 »
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