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  • HOME CARE PACKAGES | BCR Communities

    A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. We work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your lifestyle, needs, values and goals. AGEING WELL HISTORY Home Care Packages STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY AT HOME A BCR Communities Home Care Package (HCP) will give you the support you need to keep living independently in your own home and socially connected to your local community. Home Care Packages are designed for those with more complex or intensive care needs that go beyond what the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) can provide. Once you have been assigned your government-subsidised Home Care Package through My Aged Care, your experienced BCR Communities care team will work with you and your support network to create a personalised program based on your values, lifestyle, needs and goals. A BCR Home Care Package can support you with: Individualised supports: based around your interests and preferred activities Personal services: aimed to assist you with any personal care needs you may have Shopping: making sure you have all you need to generate healthy meals at home Meal preparation: assisting you to prepare or have delivered fresh and nutritious meals Transport: helping you get to medical or other essential appointments Declutter and packing: helping keep your house safe, tidy and organised In-home respite: keeping you company when your carer has other commitments Minor home modifications and equipment: so you can stay independent in your home Allied Health support: to assist with maintaining independence in your home 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 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. Find out more Steps to getting a Home Care Package STEP 1 The first step in accessing a government-subsidised Home Care Package is to contact My Aged Care to check your eligibility. You can call 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au My Aged Care STEP 2 If you are eligible, a member of the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) will visit your home to provide a free home support assessment. During this meeting they will identify what your home care needs are and confirm your eligibility to receive government-subsidised support. STEP 3 My Aged Care will write to you to let you know the outcome of your assessment and the level of care you are eligible for and approved to receive. There is a waiting list for HCP funding to be assigned. My Aged Care will notify you in writing once you have been assigned a package. Am I eligible for a Home Care Package? Eligibility for a government-subsidised Home Care Package is based on your age and your support needs. A Home Care Package could be what you need if you are: need support with everyday activities need support to continue to living independently in your own home and your community 65 years or older (50 years or older for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people) OR 50 years or older (45 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and on a low income, homeless or at risk of being homeless. Schedule of fees “I can’t fault them in any way and I appreciate everything they do for me because they are lovely girls and I would be lost without them.” ELAINE

  • HOME | BCR Communities - aged care, NDIS, youth & community services

    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 (Formerly Bay & Basin Community Resources) Explore our services COMMUNITY Chat Chat COMMUNITY AGEING WELL 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 Get Creative with BCR Art Sparks Community Helping Community This Christmas Demand for Emergency Food Relief Surges in the Bay and Basin “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

  • SOCIAL GROUPS | BCR Communities

    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. As of May 2024, we have a calendar for south Shoalhaven and one for north Shoalhaven. February Calendar (south) February Calendar (north) 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. Join our online social community for connection every day of the week We know that sometimes it can be difficult to leave the house to catch-up with friends, meet new friends or simply share common interests with others. There are many reasons any one of us can become socially isolated. That’s why BCR has created the BCR Communities App. Think of it as an online, or digital, Town Square - a place to meet others and get connected. You might already be a part of a social app like Facebook, or you might be completely new to online communities – either way this App is for you! You can download the BCR Communities App onto your iPhone, Android Phone, iPad or Tablet. You can even access it on your computer. Once you join BCR Communities, you will be able to take part in online discussions, share information, join interest groups – for example, the Gardening Group or the Walking Group, and take a look at our Community Connects Calendar for upcoming events and activities. Most importantly, you will be able to connect with people and make new friends. If this is of interest to you, but you think you might need help let us know and one of our friendly team will be more than happy to assist! Join BCR Communities "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

  • RADIO STATION | BCR Communities

    Connecting communities across the Bay & Basin, our community radio station 92.7FM operates out of the BCR Activities Hub in Sanctuary Point. Visit the BBCR 92.7FM website - www.927fm.com.au - for the live radio stream, program guide, community news, presenter bios, sponsorship guide and more. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES Bay & Basin Community Radio 92.7FM AN ALTERNATIVE TO MAINSTREAM MEDIA Connecting communities across the Bay & Basin, our community radio station 92.7FM operates out of the BCR Activities Hub in Sanctuary Point. With the support of local sponsors, a team of over 35 volunteers broadcast from the radio station 24/7, playing music from across genres and styles and producing uniquely local content including live outside broadcasts from around the region. Visit 927fm.com.au for: Listening live Weekly program guide News from the station Community events directory for the Bay & Basin The latest regional, national & international news from The Wire Local business sponsorship directory Meet our local presenters 92.7FM LISTEN LIVE 1/1 "I got into volunteering as a radio presenter through a friend and I’ve been doing it for over five years now. My show is Pick the Flick, every Wednesday from 3.15pm to 4.15pm. I focus on a particular director, play music from their soundtracks and talk about the films. I really enjoy it as it combines my Iove of music and movies!" RAUL

  • ABOUT US | BCR Communities

    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.   ABOUT US HISTORY Our history Around 30 years ago there was a real gap in community services and supports in the Bay and Basin region of NSW, especially for young people. While the Bay and Basin lacked resources, it was rich with people who loved where they lived and were willing to give their time and energy to making sure their community had a dedicated space where local youth and families could access services, programs and activities. In 1989, a group of concerned local residents went to the Shoalhaven City Council to try and find a solution for the gap in community services. From that initial meeting the Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) Committee was formed. The first goal for the Committee was to work with Council to build the Sanctuary Point Youth and Community Centre. Because of their persistence and hard work, the Centre was opened in 1991 and for over 30 years it has been a gathering place for all ages, and has held countless activities, events, workshops and social groups. It is a safe and welcoming space creating many happy memories over the years. From that initial success, BBCR continued to grow and diversify in response to the needs of our local communities. In 1993, we began our Aged Care services so local seniors could be supported to remain living independently in their own homes. In 2000 we started delivering the national Respite For Carers program in the Shoalhaven which transitioned into the HCP and CHSP services we currently provide. In 2002 we launched our radio station, Bay & Basin Community Radio 92.7FM so locals could keep connected and up-to-date with what was happening in their own community. Today we are proud to say we support over 700 seniors and people with disability in the Shoalhaven and Illawarra, and local community members of all ages access programs and events within our Community Spaces and our Activities Hub each week. Bay & Basin Community Resources to BCR Communities As our organisation has grown, our name has also evolved to better reflect our vision and mission, and the many diverse communities we support across the Shoalhaven and the Illawarra. From Bay & Basin Community Resources (BBCR) we have changed our name to BCR Communities – ‘Building Connected Resourceful’ Communities. We may have a different name today than we did in 1991 but at our heart, we are still the same grass roots organisation that is committed to partnering with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. We believe everyone living in our region has the right to live happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. 1/6 MISSION & VISION Our mission... We partner with our communities to provide person-centred services for all. Our vision... Communities living happy, healthy, productive and meaningful lives. Our values... Promote inclusion We proudly work with and foster the diversity of individual and community needs. Act with integrity We are honest, fair, transparent and build trusting relationships. Show empathy We are partners in your journey. Encourage wellness We value the health of each person by offering innovative lifestyle choices. OUR BOARD Meet our Board Sharon O'Brien Chairperson Sharon has been a volunteer on the Board of BCR Communities for 10 years. She has 30 years of professional experience working in the Human Services Sector and holds a Bachelor of Welfare Studies, Bachelor of Education, Diploma of Leadership and Management, Diploma of Management and Adult Education Training and Assessment qualifications. Sharon's disability experience includes leading change and quality service improvements including a Workplace Trainer pilot to support continuous improvement and compliance, and an Aboriginal Traineeship Project leading to the expansion of the learning program and traineeships across NSW. Sharon is also volunteering in a Primary Ethics teaching role within the local community. Rebekah Webb Board Director Rebekah has a background in Health, practicing as a Physiotherapist for the past seven years in the hospital and private sector, holds a Bachelor in Physiotherapy and is also the Owner/Director of Jervis Bay Physiotherapy. She also has experience as a Committee Member on the NSW Australia Physiotherapy Association Board, consulting with professional development for Physiotherapists in Australia. Rebekah is actively involved in the community through sporting clubs, Community Group Exercise classes for over 65s and ATSI Community Physiotherapy funding for our local community. Rebekah has also been involved in quality improvement projects across NSW Health, Shellharbour Private Hospital. Using her expertise in her role on the Board of Directors, Rebekah aims to continue supporting our local community with health, wellbeing, accessibility and improving resources. Danny Bosevski Board Director Danny has over 20 years of experience in the technology sector and holds a Masters in IT Management. He is an experienced Manager and leader of technical and customer focused teams, driving key business initiatives and advocating technology improvements in business. Danny’s passion for driving technological innovation to support business strategies is evident through successfully implementing client management systems and developing highly responsive and reliable IT systems. He is adept at implementing strategic business plans, driving growth, and improving operations. Danny is familiar with the challenges that not-for-profit organisations face every day and is keen to contribute to providing better outcomes for all BCR participants. Danny joined the Board of BCR Communities in 2024. John Harvey Board Director John holds a Bachelor Of Commerce (Marketing & Management) as well as being a qualified Electrical Supervisor. He is currently the General Manager of a specialised engineering company supplying bespoke equipment into the waste and recycling sectors. John has over 30 years of experience in management and sales including nine years as an Executive Manager in the disability sector overseeing the operation of one of Australia’s largest disability enterprises He held a volunteer Board of Management role for over 20 years with Fresh Hope Venues and more recently was part of the People and Culture Committee for Fresh Hope Community Care that was tasked with overseeing the renewal process of the Board of Directors. The ability to give back has always been important to John and he welcomes the opportunity to contribute to BCR Communities through participation on the Board. Claire Carson Board Director Claire holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy, and a Master of Health Industry Management. With over 19 years of experience in the health sector, she brings a wealth of clinical expertise and leadership to her role as Board Director for BCR. Claire's academic contributions include research presented at the 2011 Australian Occupational Therapy Conference, World Occupational Therapy Conference, and 2019 Australian Occupational Therapy Conference, and two publications in the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal. Claire has worked across diverse settings, including mental health, inpatient wards, community health, aged care, and rehabilitation, providing care across the lifespan. Claire is also the Secretary for the Shoalhaven Professional Business Association, where she advocates for the integration of health services into the broader business community. As Clinical Director of South Coast Therapy and Support Group Claire has demonstrated strategic and operational leadership. She is deeply committed to advancing the health industry through innovative service models, evidence-based practices, and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes. Nathan Carson Board Director Nathan Carson is an experienced Business Manager, Project Manager, and strategic leader with a strong background in operations, financial oversight, and process optimisation. As the Director and Owner of South Coast Therapy and Support Group, Nathan’s leadership emphasises client satisfaction, quality assurance, and streamlined operations. Nathan’s experience includes managing complex projects, and his strategic planning, risk management, and leadership skills have been instrumental in driving process improvements and innovation resulting in South Coast Therapy and Support Group earning three Shoalhaven Business Chamber awards in 2024: Excellence in Innovation, Employer of Choice, and Business of the Year. These awards were reflective of Nathan’s dedication to fostering workplace culture, innovative practices, and overall business excellence. Nathan is currently studying towards his Master of Business Administration, holds a Graduate Certificate in Management, and is a Committee Member for the Shoalhaven Business Chamber. Nathan brings a collaborative, results-focused approach to Board governance, contributing strategic insight, financial acumen, project management expertise, and a passion for continuous improvement. OUR TEAM Heather Marciano CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Heather has over 15 years of experience in the not for profit sector including key strategic leadership, innovation and business transformation roles within the Aged Care and Disability sectors. Heather co-authored a research paper on ageing people with disability and presented this research internationally resulting in the development of Kemira, a purpose built community which has received local, national and international awards as the first model of its kind in Australia. Heather’s experience includes executive roles in Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Operations Management, Media, Marketing and Communications, and Stakeholder Engagement. Zanna Elliott EXECUTIVE MANAGER PEOPLE & CULTURE Zanna holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources Management and has close to 20 years of professional HR experience. Having worked in small business through to large corporate, since joining BCR Communities 4 years ago Zanna finds the not for profit community sector the most rewarding and suited to her personal values. Zanna has worked across all areas of human resources, partnering with business leaders to help them achieve strategic and operational goals, while mitigating risk and leading cultural change. Along with a strong business acumen, Zanna’s extensive professional experience has resulted in strong and trusting relationships. Lorraine Williams EXECUTIVE MANAGER AGED CARE SERVICES Lorraine has been a Registered Nurse for almost 40 years, working in community and hospitals in acute care and health management. For the last 3 years Lorraine has worked for BCR firstly as a Care Manager in but more recently as Executive Manager. Lorraine has extensive clinical experience, with a passion for clinical governance, change management, innovation and developing a positive workplace that provides quality care. Lorraine has lived in the Shoalhaven for over 27 years, raising 4 children and now has 10 grandchildren. She has experience in volunteering roles in the local community including as a volunteer exec for a local community pre-school. Sean Cleary EXECUTIVE MANAGER FINANCE, GOVERNANCE & SYSTEMS Sean is a finance specialist with over 30 years’ experience managing finances for commercial and Not-for-Profit organisations. He holds a Degree in Business and is a member of the IPA (Institute of Public Accountants). He has worked in a variety of Community Services sector organisations. He has experience in a wide range of corporate services responsibilities. Enhancing business efficiencies is a strength of Sean’s, achieving improvements through system implementation, coaching/developing finance teams and working closely with all stakeholders. Sean believes a strong and efficient ‘back of house’ service compliments and supports frontline workers enabling them to provide quality services to our clients. Michael Nurmi EXECUTIVE MANAGER COMMUNITY & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Michael has many years of experience working in the community sector. He brings knowledge and expertise in the development of social enterprises, education and training programs, volunteer management, community development and fundraising. Michael advocates for those in the community requiring a helping hand to move forward and make change for the better. He is passionate about social inclusion opportunities and demonstrating a people-centered approach in the provision of quality services. Michael supports innovation and strives to collaborate with like-minded organisation’s to identify gaps in services and ensure that the needs of our local community are met. He encourages partnerships that see Not-For-Profit, Business and Govt groups working together. Meet our Team Acknowledgement of Country Acknowledgement of Country BCR Communities acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate their continuing culture, the world’s oldest living culture, and the contribution they make to the life of this region and our country. 2024 ANNUAL REPORT 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 2022 ANNUAL REPORT 2021 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 ANNUAL REPORT 2018 ANNUAL REPORT 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Annual Reports ANNUAL REPORTS

  • COMMUNITY | BCR Communities

    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

  • COMMONWEALTH HOME SUPPORT PROGRAM (CHSP) | BCR Communities

    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

  • AGED CARE | BCR Communities

    BCR Communities supports seniors to keep living independently in their own home and socially connected to their local community. We provide CHSP services and Home Care Packages, Short Term Restorative Care packages, social groups, cottage respite, wellness programs and carer support. AGED CARE HISTORY Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) Home Maintenance Program Wellness Programs Home Care Packages Short-Term Restorative Care Programs Day Respite Cottage Social Groups Carer Support

  • CARER SUPPORT | BCR Communities

    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

  • NDIS SUPPORTS | BCR Communities

    Whether your goal is getting a job, living independently, learning new skills, socialising and making friends or just having fun, BCR Communities is your local NDIS provider. We take the time to really understand your interests, dreams and goals before tailoring a support plan that is just for you. NDIS HISTORY Do you have an NDIS plan? BCR COMMUNITIES IS YOUR LOCAL NDIS PROVIDER Whether your goal is working towards getting a job, living independently, learning new skills, socialising and making friends or just having fun, BCR Communities can support you to achieve it. We take the time to really understand your interests, dreams and goals before tailoring a support plan that is just for you. Here are just some examples of how we can support you to achieve your goals JOIN THE WORKFORCE Goal: Join the workforce We can give you the support you need to learn specific employment skills like time-management, working safely (WHS), travel training and communication skills. IMPROVE HEALTH & WELLBEING Goal: Improve my health and wellbeing We can help you discover activities which will improve your fitness and have you feeling fantastic. It might be bushwalking, dancing, bowling or swimming.. GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY Goal: Give back to my community At the BCR Activities Hub you can work with our volunteers and staff on many projects that give back to our community. MAKE NEW FRIENDS Goal: Make new friends You will meet lots of new people at the BCR Activities Hub and we can also support you to join fun activities, social groups and events in the community. INCREASE INDEPENDENCE Goal: Increase my independence BCR can support you to build the skills you need for daily living. Learn how to cook, mow the lawn, stick to a budget or use public transport. LEARN A NEW SKILL Goal: Learn a new skill From getting your L plates to playing music or hosting your own radio show, if there is a skill you want to learn, we can support you to master it. SUBMIT THANK YOU, WE'LL BE IN TOUCH. Contact BCR today to find out more about our NDIS supports "I am learning to play the guitar, plant in the garden, make things with wood, catch a fish and cook my own lunch on the BBQ. Next I want to learn the drums!" JESSE

  • Our Team | BCR Communities

    Meet the dedicated, experienced team behind BCR Communities OUR TEAM ALEX SMITH MAX JOHNSON RIVER WATTS

  • DAY RESPITE COTTAGE | BCR Communities

    BCR Communities offers a small day-centre respite group 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. AGEING WELL HISTORY Day Respite Cottage Situated in beautiful, tranquil Sanctuary Point in the Shoalhaven, BCR Communities' Day Respite Cottage is the perfect location for a day away. We offer a small day-centre respite group tailored specifically for people living with dementia. The group meets every Monday from 9.30am to 2.30pm at the Day Respite Cottage located at 16 Sanctuary 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 home-cooked lunch is provided and clients feel supported in a comfortable and safe environment. . Carers can have time to relax and recharge at home knowing the person they care for is safe, well-supported and enjoying a range of activities during their day. Our people Our professional and experienced care workers will provide ongoing assistance with daily care needs, prepare delicious home-cooked meals and engage clients in a program of activities based around the clients own interests and hobbies. Individually tailored programs Our care team really take the time to get to know the clients and their carers before tailoring a program for their stay. By finding out about daily routines, what they enjoy to eat and their favourite activities and interests, we can ensure our clients feel safe and secure during their day at the cottage. This also gives carers and families peace of mind. Being next door to the BCR Communities Activities Hub means we have access to an art and music studio, a wood working shed, extensive vegetable and flower gardens and even some friendly chooks! The Cottage also has a range of fun outdoor and indoor games. 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

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