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Held at the BCR Youth & Community Centre, the fashion parade brought together participants from our Social Connect groups in Albion Park and the Bay & Basin for an afternoon celebrating confidence, creativity and the joy of pre-loved fashion. From sophisticated business wear and fabulous formal outfits to a 70s-inspired tennis look and a funky retro jumpsuit, the runway was full of colourful second-hand finds proving that style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The highlight of the day was seeing three members of our Social Connect groups step up and join in the fun themselves, proudly strutting their stuff down the catwalk in outfits they had chosen from the BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop. There were plenty of smiles, laughs and cheers from the crowd, with everyone embracing the playful and supportive atmosphere. Events like this are a wonderful reminder that sustainable fashion can be fun, affordable and accessible for everyone. Shopping pre-loved not only helps reduce waste and support the environment, but also gives clothing a second life while helping local people and families access affordable fashion close to home. The BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop is more than just an op shop. Located within the BCR Youth & Community Centre in Sanctuary Point, it also creates valuable hands-on retail and customer service experience for local young people, helping them build confidence, develop practical skills and connect with their community in a supportive environment. A huge thank you to the BCR Community Services team, our fantastic models and everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success. Judging by the laughter and excitement in the room, we think this might just need to become a regular event.

International Nurses Day is a special opportunity to celebrate the incredible nurses who care for and support our community every day, and at BCR Communities, we are so grateful for the skill, professionalism, dedication and kindness of our amazing nurses. As part of our aged care and Support at Home services, our nurses help older people stay safe, healthy and independent while continuing to live comfortably in their own homes. For many clients, they become trusted and familiar faces, someone who not only provides clinical care, but also takes the time to listen, reassure and genuinely get to know the person behind the care plan. From helping someone recover after a hospital stay to supporting medication management, wound care, chronic health conditions and general wellbeing, our nurses provide important in-home nursing support to local people and families throughout the Shoalhaven and Illawarra. No two days are ever the same. One visit might involve a clinical assessment or health check, while another could simply be spending time with a client who needs encouragement, reassurance or a friendly chat. Our nurses also work closely with families, carers and other health professionals to make sure each person receives the support that’s right for them. Last week, our wonderful nurses hosted a Biggest Morning Tea in support of Cancer Council Australia. With games, treats, giveaways and lots of laughter, the event brought staff together while raising close to $400 for a cause that touches so many people in our community. It was such a lovely reflection of the warmth, generosity and community spirit our nurses bring to BCR Communities every day. Thank you to our amazing Clinical Team for everything you do. Your care and support make a real difference in the lives of so many people across our community, and we are incredibly lucky to have you as part of BCR.

Second chances matter - for people and for the planet. At the BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop in the Youth & Community Centre in Sanctuary Point, pre-loved items find new homes while local young people gain valuable skills, confidence and work experience in a welcoming, community-focused environment. The shop offers low-cost fashion, shoes, accessories and small household treasures like books and games, helping families stretch their budgets while giving good-quality items a second life. Every purchase supports sustainability and keeps clothing and goods out of landfill. Through the initiative, participants from the BCR Youth Collective gain experience in customer service, merchandising, pricing, stock rotation and point-of-sale processes. Working alongside volunteers and staff, they learn what it takes to run a welcoming, community-focused retail space. BCR Youth & Community Services Team Leader Karen Chambers says the shop provides a safe and encouraging place for young people to develop skills that can support future employment. “The 2nd Chance Op Shop gives young people the chance to learn by doing,” Karen said. “Each shift brings new learning opportunities, from greeting customers and styling displays to working as part of a team and problem-solving in a busy retail environment.” “This is about helping young people see their potential. When they gain confidence and practical skills in a real setting, it opens doors and helps them imagine new possibilities for their future.” While the intention is to open the 2nd Chance Op Shop each Monday from 10am to midday, operating times may vary depending on volunteer availability so visitors are encouraged to check for updates on the BCR Communities Facebook page. Due to the op shop’s limited space, BCR is putting on hold accepting general clothing or household donations. However, quality formal and business attire is welcomed to support youth-focused Smart Start Styling Sessions. Community members are encouraged to stop by to discover affordable finds, support local youth and experience the welcoming atmosphere.

BCR Communities is a community-led, not for profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 30 years. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station. BCR Communities Building Connected Resourceful Communities Explore our services Chat Chat COMMUNITY COMMUNITY AGED CARE NDIS Your community. BCR Communities is a community-led, not-for-profit organisation which has been serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra for over 30 years. We believe in thriving communities living happy, healthy, meaningful and productive lives. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers support our communities through our quality Aged Care, NDIS and Community Services including our Community Radio Station – Bay & Basin 92.7FM. To find a service, get involved or discover more, please get in touch here . ALL STAGES We are for all ages and stages From creative classes for kids through to social groups for seniors, we are supporting our communities through every life stage. PEOPLE FIRST We put people first As a community-led, not-for-profit organisation, our mission is to partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. TRUELY LOCAL We are truly local BCR Communities was created for locals by locals and nobody understands the communities of the Shoalhaven and Illawarra better than we do. RESPONSIVE We are responsive to the needs of our communities For over 30 years, we have been building brighter, more connected and resourceful communities through our services and supports. INCLUSIVE We are inclusive We welcome and celebrate every person. The diversity of our organisation reflects the diversity of our communities. LISTENING We listen to you Understanding your values and what’s important to you helps us to support you to live a happy and healthy life. Are you looking for rewarding work that makes a difference? Whether you have experience in a caring or support role or are looking for new and fulfilling work, if you share our core values of inclusion, integrity, empathy and encouraging wellness, get in touch here . Keep up to date with our latest news BCR Brings Sustainable Fashion to the Runway BCR Celebrates International Nurses Day BCR 2nd Chance Op Shop Supports Youth & Community BCR Pocket Pantry Opens in Sanctuary Point BCR Youth Collective Textile Art Workshop Empowers Young People Bailey’s Woodworking Journey with NDIS Work, Life & Training Program “Working at BCR Communities is truly rewarding. I love connecting with people, supporting them, and knowing that the work I do is helping my community. The atmosphere here feels like family—everyone from the clients and participants to the staff and volunteers, is so friendly and welcoming. It’s actually a pleasure to come to work every day..” KENDALL 1/1 © 2023 by BCR Communities. Privacy Policy

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Discover BCR Communities’ Assistive Technology and Home Modifications support, funded through My Aged Care as part of Support at Home, helping you live safely and independently at home. AT-HM SCHEME HISTORY Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme Small changes can make a big difference! The right equipment or a few changes around your home can make everyday life safer, easier and more comfortable. Through the Support at Home Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme, BCR Communities can help you access equipment and modifications designed around your individual needs – helping you stay independent and continue living safely in the home you know and love. Talk to our Team Request More Information What is the Assistive Technology & Home Modifications Scheme? The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme is part of the Australian Government's Support at Home program. It provides separate funding for eligible older people to access equipment, products and changes to their home that support their assessed needs. This means you don't need to save money from your regular Support at Home services budget to pay for approved assistive technology or home modifications. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Equipment and products that can help you complete everyday activities more safely and independently. This may include things such as: Walking sticks and walking frames Wheelchairs and mobility equipment Shower and bathroom equipment Equipment to help with daily activities Personal alarms Other approved aids suited to your assessed needs. HOME MODIFICATIONS Changes to your home that can improve safety, accessibility and independence. This may include: grab rails and handrails ramps stair lifts changes to bathrooms widening doorways or passages for improved access. What can be funded depends on the person's assessed needs and the government's approved AT-HM list. Steps to Starting the AT-HM Scheme 1. Get Assessed. Your aged care assessment will identify whether you need assistive technology, home modifications, or both. 2. Understand your options. If approved, your support plan and Notice of Decision will outline the type of AT-HM funding you are eligible to receive. 3. We help co-ordinate your support BCR can work with you to arrange the equipment, professional advice, suppliers or trades needed to meet your assessed needs. 4. Make Everyday Life Easier. Your equipment or home modifications are put in place so you can feel safer and more confident at home. Why choose BCR Communities? One Call. One Person. Your Care Partner At BCR Communities, aged care is personal. When you join us, you'll have a dedicated Care Partner who gets to know you, understands your goals and helps co-ordinate your support. No repeating your story to different people. Because we're local, we understand our communities and can respond quickly when your needs change. A committed Care Partner – just one call away, no call centre queues or repeating your story. A small, dedicated care team – people you will see regularly who really get to know you. An experienced clinical team – registered nurses ensuring safe, high-quality care every step of the way. Local staff, local knowledge – we know the area, the community, and the people. Personal, flexible support – tailored to your needs, goals and lifestyle. Contact BCR today to find out more about the AT-HM Scheme First name Last name Email Phone Message Submit Frequently asked questions AT-HM Scheme How is the AT-HM Scheme funded? Assistive Technology and Home Modifications funding is separate from your regular Support at Home ongoing services budget.Depending on your assessed needs, you may be approved for a funding tier for:Assistive Technology: low, medium or high funding may be available depending on the equipment you need.Home Modifications: funding tiers range from smaller modifications through to more substantial changes, with high-tier home modification funding available up to $15,000.Participant contributions may apply to some equipment and home modifications. How long is the funding available for? Funding is generally available for 12 months, although some high-tier home modifications may be extended where eligible. Do I need an occupational therapist? Depending on the equipment or modification you need, advice or a referral from an appropriately qualified health professional may be required.This could include an occupational therapist, nurse or other allied health professional who can assess your needs and recommend a safe and suitable solution.Where required, BCR can help co-ordinate these services as part of your support. Can I access this with other Support at Home services? Assistive Technology and Home Modifications can be accessed alongside your ongoing Support at Home services.Depending on your circumstances, some AT-HM funding can also be accessed while receiving support through the Restorative Care Pathway or End-of-Life Pathway.