Shire make changes to in-home care

THE Surf Coast Shire will soon end its delivery of in-home assessments of people seeking Home Support Program services from the federal government.

From Monday, July 1, the Regional Assessment Service will be carried out by federal government-appointed contractors.

The shire’s council resolved in 2019 to adopt a Positive Ageing Reform Readiness Plan which included five actions.

Transition away from delivery of Regional Assessment Service is the last of the five actions to be undertaken.

Cr Gary Allen said the national aged care reform will help streamline assessment services.

“The council will be providing some assistance to help ensure that the transition goes smoothly.

“Assessments will continue, and we encourage people to work through My Aged Care as a first step with any inquiries or to connect with support.

“The council will also be continuing to play a key role in supporting people to age well in the place where they live, through implementation of our Age Friendly Strategy.

The shire has introduced an Aged Community Connector Officer who will help people navigate the new arrangements during the next 12 months.

People seeking assessment should contact My Aged Care to be connected to one of the new providers.