Possible impacts on home care and disability services

From July 1, significant changes will be made to the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award.

Recipients of these services are being encouraged to contact their service providers to discuss their individual needs.

Kerryn Starkey from Dignity Matters Support Service (DMSS) said while the changes to the award are overdue for community workers, there are concerns on how this may impact client budgets and put some vulnerable people at risk.

“The introduction of a legal minimum payment of two hours of service has raised apprehension amongst clients and families as to the cost of care not being affordable or daily services no longer possible, which are critical to the welfare and safety of clients in their home,” Ms Starkey said.

“I encourage all recipients of in-home funded services to discuss their individual needs with their service provider as to alternative arrangements and options to best meet their individual circumstances.

“Open and transparent discussion is important in generating innovative ideas and alternate provisions of service that do not compromise independence and duty of care.”

Ms Starkey said as a local service provider for Bass Coast, DMSS is committed to each person’s wellbeing, honouring client choice and maintaining excellent standards in care.

“We work closely with other service providers within the community who share a common goal to support the older person and people with a disability to live independently.

“Dignity Matters Support Service is confident we can all adjust to the new guidelines and make this a smooth transition for the care recipient.”