Search Results

While caring for a loved one is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR Communities holds monthly carer support meetings, and day and overnight respite. ARIIA GRANT HISTORY The Regional Provider Blueprint for Developing a Values-Based Culture and Values-Driven Care Plans through Engagement, Empowerment and Technology BCR Communities, along with our partners ExSitu, University of Wollongong (UOW) and CarersNSW, secured an ARIIA grant to generate a regional provider blueprint for developing a values-based culture and values-driven care plans through engagement, empowerment and technology. . The Aged Care Research and Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) grant was created to support the aged care sector by providing funding that can be used to build increased workforce capability and capacity. They are especially focussed on funding projects that address areas like dementia care, mental health and wellbeing, and social isolation. BCR Communities uses values-based care plans which put the client firmly at the centre of their own decision-making and wellbeing. Using technology developed by ExSitu, our clients are provided with a simple tool that can be used to create their individualised hierarchy of values. Clients use online card sorting to identify their most important values and goals, with the information transferable into documents like support plans and Advance Care Directives. BELOW IS THE PROJECT'S BLUEPRINT SUMMARY Blueprint Summary BCR Communities was awarded a grant through the Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) program to deliver a Regional Provider Blueprint based on our values-based care program. The aim of the Blueprint is to share the learnings from our ARIIA project, so that as a sector, we can lead the change towards a values-based model of care. The aim of the ARIIA project was to test our assumptions that, with positive values-driven culture, and a commitment to empowerment and simple, efficient technologies, we could operationalise care processes to support human rights so those we care for can make their own decisions in alignment with their individual values. The results we were hoping to achieve through the research findings, and implementation of new processes and technology, was to increase meaningful social connection and reduce social isolation through the development and delivery of services which were aligned to an understanding of each person’s values and wishes. The key challenge explored was the balance we needed to strike as an aged care provider to: Support a person’s right to dignity of risk in the context of their right to self determination Uphold our responsibilities in relation to duty of care. Create a clear transparent process to navigate the potential conflict between dignity of risk and duty of care and align that to each person’s individual values. Methods used in this research project included the review of previously developed BCR in-home care client personas, client surveys, focus groups, regular project review meetings, and individual and group consultation sessions with key stakeholders including BCR Executive and Care Managers, Care Staff, BCR Clients and research partner representative from Carers NSW, University of Wollongong, Autonomy First Lawyers and technology partner ExSitu. Using a participatory research, research-to-action approach (Cornwall, 1995) the project team progressively consulted and communicated with key BCR stakeholders on challenges, opportunities, findings, and actions through regular meetings, and also communicated the outcomes of internal changes and key findings through client and staff newsletters. As a result of this project, our key findings include that: •social connections can be improved within communities through simplified and efficient engagement, training and referral processes values-based technologies can be used effectively to address our three key challenges working collaboratively with values-driven organisations creates opportunities to positively impact older people by focussing on supported decision-making practices. This project identifies opportunities to further this research and create sector wide change by professionalising key roles and improving supported decision-making practice. By progressing this research, we aim to improve models of care and the experience of older people by expanding providers understanding and delivery of rights-based decision making practice. Click here for the full report ARIIA Blueprint

It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. AGEING WELL HISTORY BCR Communities Social Groups SPEND THE DAY WITH FRIENDS It’s time to get out of the house, have fun and spend time with your friends. The activities change every week – we might stay indoors for games, trivia or an art session or get in the bus and explore our stunning coastline or try a new café. While the activities may differ from week to week, what doesn’t change is the companionship, the conversation and something delicious for lunch! Click the buttons below to see the latest Social Group Activity Calendars. We have a calendar for south Shoalhaven including the Bay and Basin, one for Nowra and Culburra, and a social calendar for the Illawarra. Dec/Jan Calendar (South) Dec/Jan Calendar (North) Dec/Jan Calendar (Central) SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about joining our social groups Weekly Social Groups BCR Communities has a varied calendar of social activities throughout the week including day trips, lunches out, special events, walking groups, trivia, games, art, music and more. Making friends the easy way It is harder to keep socially connected as we age, friends and family move away or health problems make it more difficult to get out of the house. BCR Communities Social Groups makes regularly meeting up with friends simple and fun, with transport available to pick you up and drop you home. "I haven’t been in the Wednesday Social Group for very long but I’m so glad I joined because they are a lovely group. It is great to be out of the house and meeting new people. I used to be a nurse so I’ve always been drawn to being around people." WILMA

BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program services the Bay and Basin region and offers a helping hand with a range of small home maintenance tasks and garden clean ups. The focus is on removing risks to health and safety and maintaining a home environment which supports health and independence. AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Maintenance Program BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program services the Bay and Basin region, offering a friendly helping hand with a range of small home maintenance tasks and garden clean ups. The focus of the service is on removing risks to health and safety and maintaining a home environment which supports your independence and wellness goals. You might need to change a lightbulb but feel unsteady on a ladder, maybe you need to repair an old railing or have a path that is slippery with mould and mildew? Our team will assess what needs to be done and then help you with all those minor maintenance jobs so that you can continue to live safely and independently in your own home. The BCR Communities Home Maintenance Program is funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) so you will need to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to access this service. BCR Communties CHSP SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about the home maintenance program “My garden is very important to me, it is what I love most about my home. Before BCR came it was such a mess that it was starting to feel really depressing looking at it. I feel so much better mentally now.” DOREEN

Love where you live? You can give back to your local community by joining the BCR Communities team as a valued volunteer. BCR was created by locals for locals and for more than 30 years we have been providing services within our communities with the support of our wonderful volunteers. GET INVOLVED HISTORY Volunteering with BCR Communities LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE You can give back to your local community by joining the BCR Communities team as a valued volunteer. BCR was created by locals for locals and for more than 30 years we have been providing services within our communities with the support of our wonderful volunteers. Volunteering for BCR Communities will give you the opportunity to: Make new friends and meet people Share your knowledge and talents Contribute to your community Learn new skills Be a part of a great team Find a sense of purpose Make a difference in the lives of others We also partner with Job Network Providers How to become a BCR volunteer Our team will take the time to get to know you and discover your interests, talents, skills and goals before finding the perfect role for you. Chat to us today and find out about the wide range of volunteering opportunities we have across our region. Fill in the contact us form below or phone 1300 222 748. SUBMIT Thank you, we'll be in touch. “The statistics are clear, men often get depressed once they leave the workforce and I didn’t think I would but retirement for some people is a bigger challenge than being in the workforce and I was one of those who was tremendously challenged. When I applied they asked me 'why do you want to be here?’ and I said, 'I just need some sense of fellowship, I need company.' I was nervous and it was difficult because I hadn’t played an instrument for 54 years but joining the Pirates Band gave me a new lease on life. I started practising and looking up YouTube videos, it gave me a reason for being and I get excited coming here. I found the fellowship I was looking for.” MILTON CONTACT

The BCR Communities Wellness Program is for seniors and includes activities that improve physical fitness strength and well-being. Regular participation in activities that improve balance, coordination and mobility will lower the risk of falls and help you to stay in your own home for longer. AGEING WELL HISTORY Wellness Programs The BCR Communities Wellness Program has been designed especially for seniors and includes activities that not only improve physical fitness and strength but also increase general well-being. Regular participation in activities that aim to improve balance, coordination, strength and mobility will lower the risk of falls and help you to stay happy and healthy in your own home for longer. The groups are small, fun and social and run by qualified professionals who have extensive experience working with seniors. New participants are always welcome to our social support groups. TIMETABLE All wellness classes are instructed by professionals and have been designed to increase your strength, improve your balance and mobility, and reduce your risk of falls. Jervis Bay Physiotherapy Exercise Classes (Term - 18 Feb to 11 April) Sanctuary Point Clinic at 2/200 Kerry Street, Sanctuary Point Tuesday 2.00pm - 3.00pm (Low Level Strength and Conditioning) Tuesday 3.00pm – 4.00pm (High Level Strength and Conditioning) Tuesday 4.00pm – 5.00pm (Low Level Strength and Conditioning) Thursday 8.30am - 9.30am (Low Level Balance Class) Thursday 9.30am - 10.30am (High Level Balance Class) Thursday 10.30am - 11.30am (Parkinsons Disease Exercise Class) Thursday 3pm - 4pm (Low Level Strength and Conditioning) Limited places are available. Please contact physiotherapist Rebekah on 0417 681 328 for enquiries. Physio Pal Classes Warrigal, 69 O’Briens Rd, Figtree Thursday 10am – 11am BCR Tongarra Centre, 108a Tongarra Road, Albion Park Thursday 10am – 11am North Nowra Community Centre, 7 Hood Close, North Nowra Thursday 10am – 11am For more information or to book a class please call Physio Pal on 42023874. K. Yoga Chair Exercise Classes Burrill Lake Community Hall Wednesday 8.00am – 9.00am (Slow, Flow and Hold) Wednesday 9.00am – 10.00am (Chair Exercise/Yoga) Thursday 9.00am – 10.00am (Stretch, Strength and Balance) Thursday 10.20am – 11.20am (Chair Exercise/Yoga) For more information or to book a class of chair yoga please call Kerri on 0467 685 219 or email kerriandkyoga@gmail.com The BCR Communities Wellness Programs are funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) so you will need to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to access this service. BCR Communties CHSP SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about our wellness programs "The classes have helped me a lot especially with my balance and my core strength. The physios are excellent and really good company, they make the classes a lot of fun. I feel fit for my age but the classes make you do those exercises that you know you should be doing as you age but you don’t get around to doing yourself at home." LUCY

If you have an NDIS plan, the BCR Activities Hub - Work, Life & Training program in Sanctuary Point is the place to start learning the skills you need to transition from your school life into your working life. NDIS HISTORY NDIS Work, Life & Training If you have an NDIS plan, the BCR Activities Hub - Work, Life & Training program in Sanctuary Point is the place to start learning the skills you need to transition from your school life into your working life. There is no classroom at the Activities Hub. You will learn work and life skills in our woodworking shed, community gardens, art and music studios, kitchen, outdoor pizza oven and BBQ area and our own Community radio station, Bay & Basin 92.7FM. START YOUR JOURNEY TO EMPLOYMENT As well as learning vocational skills, you will also gain valuable work experience for your CV, make new friends, increase your confidence and have fun. Your tailored program might include: Horticulture Landscaping General carpentry Work Health and Safety skills IT skills Introduction to Radio Broadcasting Life skills like cooking and budgeting Contact BCR today to find out more about how we can support you at home SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. "For the last four years I have been hosting my own radio show. I choose a feature artist, do my own research, develop the playlist and present the show. I also categorise and update the data base with new releases and I am now a member of the BBCR Radio Advisory Committee." JAROD

The BCR Community Services team delivers flexible programs and projects that build connection, inclusion and wellbeing. This includes community activities, programs, services and events. We can also provide information, assist with forms and link in with other appropriate support services. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES Community Space Bay & Basin Community Radio Activities Hub Venue Hire

BCR Communities has a variety of venues which can be hired out by the public including the Sanctuary Point Youth & Community Centre, office space and the tranquil BCR Communities Wellness Centre and Wellness Garden. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES Venue Hire BCR SANCTUARY POINT YOUTH & COMMUNITY CENTRE The BCR Youth & Community Centre at 34 Paradise Beach Road, is centrally located in the heart of Sanctuary Point very close to shops, cafes, the Library and Sanctuary Point Primary School. This venue offers a spacious main hall and stage which is suitable for workshops, meetings, concerts and performances. It also offers meeting and outdoor spaces which are great for community groups and recreation activities. The commercial style kitchen is well equipped to cater for large groups and functions. The BCR Youth & Community Centre has two offices which can be hired separately. They are both equipped with comfortable office furniture and wi-fi and are perfect for case management or counselling services. One office also has a private bathroom. BCR COMMUNITIES WELLNESS CENTRE The BCR Communities Wellness Centre is conveniently located in central Sanctuary Point at 130 Macleans Point Road. The light-filled space features a well-equipped kitchen, accessible bathrooms, an office space and a large main reception room which is suitable for meetings, workshops and classes. For meetings there is a white board, AV equipment, and multiple tables and chairs available including several arm chairs. The room can comfortably fit up to 30 people. A highlight of the space is the newly completed Wellness Garden which adds a sense of peace and tranquillity. If you would like to take your meeting or class outdoors, the outdoor space is set up with a large shade cloth, table setting and a BBQ . To hire a space or to find out more including availability and rates, please fill in the contact form below or phone 1300 222 748 SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH.

If you have access funding from the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) through My Aged Care, BCR Communities will work with you to develop an plan to keep you socially connected, happy and healthy while living in your own home. Support includes shopping, cleaning, transport and personal care. AGEING WELL HISTORY Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) HELPING YOU STAY INDEPENDENT Are you over 65 and interested in joining some social activities in the community, or perhaps you just need a little extra help around the home? Did you know there is Government funding available through My Aged Care to support you? If you are approved for funding for the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), your care team at BCR Communities will work with you to develop an individualised plan to keep you socially connected, happy and healthy while living in your own home. Some of the many ways we can support you include: Cooking Cleaning Garden maintenance Home maintenance Shopping Social activities Wellness programs Keeping fit Personal care Medication support Transport Companionship Why Choose BCR Communities for In-Home Support? COMMUNITY Personalised care Our team takes the time to understand your goals, lifestyle and values so that we can create a personalised plan that is just for you. COMMUNITY Consistent quality care You will be supported by a team of people from your local community who are experienced, caring and committed to providing the best quality support. COMMUNITY 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. COMMUNITY We are flexible and responsive We understand that your needs and goals may change over time so we will regularly review your plan to ensure you are always living the best life possible. COMMUNITY 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. COMMUNITY We are inclusive We welcome people from across our communities and celebrate the diversity they bring to our organisation. SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about how we can support you at home Values Based Care Plans The BCR Communities difference is that we really get to know you before creating a plan of support. We use ExSitu , an innovative and award-winning app designed to provide the highest level of values-based care. We are moving from filling in complicated or confusing forms so you can sit in the comfort or your own home with a BCR Communities care staff member and answer ExSitu’s simple card-based questions. The app will help you to identify what is important to you, what gives you joy, and how we might support you to live your best possible life. By establishing your core values and lifestyle desires, ExSitu can generate a values-based care plan that is truly personalised for you. More about ExSitu What is the Commonwealth Home Support Program? The Commonwealth Home Support Program or CHSP is funding provided by the Government to help older Australians get more out of life. CHSP is designed to deliver low-level support. The focus is on supporting you to retain your independence rather than doing things for you. As your needs change or grow more complex, you may need to move to a Home Care Package. Our Home Care Packages To apply for CHSP funding you need to contact My Aged Care. You can register your interest by calling 1800 200 422 or going to the website myagedcare.gov.au. You will then be contacted by an Aged Care Assessment Service who will assess the services you need. If you are approved for CHSP you will then be able to choose a registered service provider like BCR Communities. My Aged Care Am I eligible for CHSP? Eligibility for the CHSP is based on your age and your support needs. CHSP could be what you need if you are: having a little difficulty with everyday tasks need some support to continue to live independently in your community looking for ways to support your health and well-being 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) Schedule of fees “Everyone at BCR Communities has just been so helpful. They make you feel like you are important to them. A lot of groups make you feel like you are just a number but not them. It actually makes me tearful when I think about how lovely they are.” VERA

While caring for a loved one is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR Communities holds monthly carer support meetings, and day and overnight respite. AGEING WELL HISTORY Carer Support At BCR Communities we understand that while caring for someone is rewarding, it can also sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. It is important to look after your own health and wellbeing and also be informed about what help is available to you as a carer. BCR centre based respite BCR Communities offers a small day-centre respite group tailored specifically for people living with dementia. The group meets every Tuesday from 9.30am to 2.30pm at the BCR Communities Wellness Centre located at 130 Macleans Point Road, Sanctuary Point. Our experienced staff provide care that is responsive and empathetic and aim to promote well-being with meaningful and fun activities. Morning tea and lunch is provided and clients feel supported in a comfortable and safe environment. BCR Carer Support Group BCR Communities Carer Support Group meets once a month on a Thursday afternoon for a cuppa and a chat. It is a relaxed and friendly environment where everybody has the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss challenges and support others. There is no cost and all carers are welcome. The meetings are currently held: Thursday 27 November - 1.30pm to 3.30pm No meeting in December Thursday 22 January - 1.30pm to 3.30pm at the BCR Wellness Centre, 130 Macleans Point Rd, Sanctuary Point New Meetings starting in 2026 at the BCR Tongarra Centre, 108a Tongarra Road, Albion Park Other carer support Serviced by the Australian Government, the Carer Gateway provides emotional, practical and financial support for carers. Find out about counselling, tips and advice, peer support groups, financial help, coaching, emergency respite and other government support programs. 1800 422 737 Find out more Dementia Support Australia represents the 487,500 Australians living with dementia and their almost 1.6 million Australians carers. The website has resources, information, links to counselling, the latest research and events. There is also a free national dementia helpline which you can call any time. 1800 699 799 Find out more "I love my husband and want to care for him but as his dementia progresses, I’m spending more and more time at home alone with him. While my friends and family are sympathetic they really don’t understand what I’m going through like the other carers in the support group. It is so good to know that others are going through the same thing and get their advice and support. We also have a chat and a laugh together which helps." CARER SUPPORT GROUP MEMBER

Being a part of BCR Communities is so much more than just having a job. We are on a mission to find the right people to join our team. We support each other, share in our successes and celebrate meeting our vision of empowering our community to live happy, healthy, and meaningful lives. CAREERS JOIN OUR TEAM BCR Job Board HISTORY Be a part of a team that makes a difference Being a part of BCR Communities is so much more than just having a job. We are on a mission to find the right people to join our team. Our culture is dedicated to helping every employee achieve their potential. We support each other, share in our successes and celebrate meeting our vision of inspiring and empowering our community to live happy, healthy, and meaningful lives. 1/2 Feel supported At BCR Communities, we want every member of our team to feel well supported, fulfilled and valued, which is why we offer a range of work, financial, wellness and extra benefits to our employees. We asked our employees what they value most about working at BCR Communities. Below are not only the benefits you receive at BCR, but also insight into the reasons why our employees love working with us. Above all, our employees love our supportive culture, the meaningful work, and flexible working options. COMMUNITY WORK Career advancement opportunities Salary sacrifice gives up to $15,900 extra of tax free income, plus $2650 of tax free income for accommodation, meals and entertainment Mobile devices for all care workers COMMUNITY WELLNESS Supportive and inclusive culture Access to a confidential, free, 24/7 counselling service Learning and development opportunities Volunteering opportunities Impactful work COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE Flexible working arrangements to fit with your family and lifestyle Work locally Community connection Shoalhaven Swim Sport Fitness family discount Free access to LIFT fitness app Variety of retailer discounts “I had worked for years in other industries including construction but I had always had an interest in disability and I wanted to give back to my community. Working as an NDIS support worker has been really rewarding. I have been providing individual support to participants two days a week, and watching them grow in confidence and independence and achieve their goals is just terrific.” MICHAEL “I think this is a wonderful job because I like talking to people and helping people and knowing that I am enabling them to stay living in their own home. I really enjoy working for BCR, it has a family feeling and the clients and the management and the staff are all just lovely. It’s a pleasure to come to work.” FRANCINE “Being a support worker really for me, is not like a job. It is fun going to everyone’s houses knowing I am making a difference to their day and making their life a little bit easier. Most of the time it feels like visiting a friend – just helping them out and having lots of laughs.” FIONA “In the seven years I have worked here, the flexible working arrangements have been really important to me as a parent. I have been able to witness and be a part of milestones in my kid’s lives and spend more time with them than I otherwise would have been able to.” KYLIE Can’t find what you’re looking for today? FILL IN THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM BELOW AND WE WILL INFORM YOU OF FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES! Preferred general location What type of work are you looking for? SUBMIT Thank you, we'll be in touch.

BCR Communities offers day-centre respite care tailored specifically for people living with dementia. Our experienced staff provide care that is responsive and empathetic and aim to promote well-being with meaningful and fun activities. Morning tea and home-cooked lunch is provided and clients feel supported in a comfortable and safe environment. Carers can relax and recharge at home knowing the person they care for is safe, well-supported and enjoying their day. HISTORY Supporting a loved one with dementia can be challenging but you don't have to do it alone! BCR Respite Social Give your loved one the chance to connect, create, and enjoy a day of engaging activities while you take time to rest, recharge and focus on other responsibilities. Creative and stimulating activities to support well-being Safe and welcoming environment Friendly, experienced staff who understand dementia care Freshly prepared lunch and morning tea included Fun outings into the community once a month BCR Communities offers day respite care from two locations, our BCR Tongarra Centre in Albion Park for Illawarra residents and our BCR Wellness Centre in Sanctuary Point for participants living in the Shoalhaven. No day is ever the same! Our experienced staff tailor each day's program around the unique interests of our participants and how they're feeling on the day. We might play games on the lawn, listen to live music by a guest musician, create a craft project, go for a nature stroll, cook together, or plant out a flower bed in the garden. Once a month we hop on the bus for an fun outing together in the community. Albion Park Bay and Basin Respite Social Respite Social Tuesday 9.30am to 2.30pm BCR Communities Wellness Centre 130 Macleans Point Road, Sanctuary Point Thursday 9.30am to 2.30pm BCR Tongarra Centre 108a Tongarra Road, Albion Park Our people From assistance with daily living activities and mobility support to preparing nutritious, home-cooked meals, our experienced and professional team is dedicated to ensuring the comfort and well-being of our participants. We also offer a diverse program of engaging activities, designed around each client’s interests, hobbies, and abilities, promoting social connection, mental stimulation, and overall well-being. Whether it's arts and crafts, music therapy, gentle exercise, or social outings, our day respite program offers a warm, welcoming environment where clients can feel at home while carers take a well-earned break. Individually tailored programs Our care team really take the time to get to know the participants and their carers before tailoring a program for their day. By finding out about daily routines, what they enjoy to eat and their favourite activities and interests, we can ensure our participants feel safe, secure and engaged during their time with us. Whether it's arts and crafts, music therapy, gentle exercise, or social outings, our day respite program offers a warm, welcoming environment where clients can feel at home while carers take a well-earned break. The details To be eligible to be part of the group at the Day Respite Cottage, you must have a carer and be approved through My Aged Care for Day Respite. Please call 1300 222 748 or email info@bbcri.com.au to find out more “I know Mum will be well looked after when she is at the Cottage and the time apart gives me a chance to meet up with friends, spend time with my daughters and grandkids, and get things done around the house - it's a chance for me to rest and reset.” VICKI