Counselling collaboration

In Home Hospice Care (IHHC) Mount Gambier has found a new home for its grief counselling service, joining forces with Lifeline South East.

With funding from Masonic Charities Trust, spanning 2022 through to 2025, In Home Hospice Care established a Grief, Loss, and Bereavement service that provides vital support to individuals, families, and caregivers in need during challenging times.

Recently, a change in circumstances prompted In Home Hospice Care to pursue a dedicated office space for their grief counsellor Glenny Tiller with manager Sandi Elliott reaching out to the community seeking a suitable and affordable space for counselling sessions.

In response to this call, Lifeline South East (SA) CEO Leah Griffin stepped forward, offering potentially suitable office space at their premises at 5 Mark Street, Mount Gambier.

The room proved to be ideal for grief counselling, boasting spaciousness, natural light, and easy access to essential amenities and that has kickstarted this collaborative effort between In Home Hospice Care and Lifeline South East.

Lifeline South East has been in operation since July 1, 1983, providing a range of counselling, referral and support services which focus on the needs of our Limestone Coast community in times of crisis.

“Both Lifeline South East and In Home Hospice Care are aligned in our efforts to connect with the people in our community who are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing emotional distress,” Glenny said.

Since moving to the office at Lifeline, Glenny has taken on several clients, resulting in a busy schedule on Thursdays and Fridays. This collaboration has proven to be beneficial for both organisations and further strengthens support services available to the community.

“The provision of a private, comfortable space for the In Home Hospice Care’s grief counsellor complements the existing services offered by Lifeline South East and opens the door for collaborations in the future,” Leah said.

The Grief, Loss, and Bereavement Program has been steadily growing over the past two years, reflecting an increasing demand for counselling services in the community. The referral process is straightforward; anyone in need of grief counselling can access this free service, with local doctors, and staff of Lifeline South East referring patients. Members of the public can self-refer at any time, and new referrals are always welcome.

“We are extremely grateful for the support of Lifeline South East and the opportunity to be housed at their premises on Mark Street,” Sandi said. “Coupled with funding through Masonic Charities Trust, this partnership has enabled us to continue to provide a safe and welcoming space for those in our community seeking grief, loss, or bereavement counselling.

“Additionally, In Home Hospice Car’ is actively seeking a permanent home for its not-for-profit, community-based service. IHHCare’s dedicated team provide personalized care and support to people in our area dealing with life-limiting conditions such as cancer or neurological, kidney, heart, liver, or lung diseases. Volunteers provide comfort and support tailored to the needs of both the individual and their caregivers. “

To schedule an appointment with Glenny, individuals can reach her directly at 0422 832 975 on Thursdays and Fridays. Leave a message with your name and phone number, and Glenny will get back to you promptly.

Please phone 0437 246 484 if you can help with office space, are interested in volunteering, or are wanting more information about the services on offer.