Abstracts & Presentation Summaries - Department of Health

Poly drug use and challenging behaviours are also apparent. Many of the clients
have previously resided in institutional care and have moved to this form of
accommodation as a result of government policy changes of de-institutionalisation.
Developing trust with this group has required consistency and a non-judgemental
approach to service delivery.
Partnership
Partnerships with relevant service providers have been fundamental to providing a
holistic service to clients. A special interest group had been formed that includes
representatives from:
Peninsula Community Health Service (MI Health Team)
Department of Human Services (SRS Program Adviser)
Peninsula Health (Adult Community Mental Health Service)
Peninsula Support Service
This group discusses strategies to better meet the needs of the client group.
Case management, health issues and the any concerns presented by clients in relation
to their rights are discussed.
The groups has also supported research projects and looked at developing and
supporting new initiatives to improve access to services within the sub-region.
Recent examples include:
Visiting GP services to all SRSs
Research into the experiences of young people in SRSs.
Program Objectives
To deliver options to people living in pension-only SRSs that are inclusive and
accessible.
To recognise the diversity of issues and barriers experienced by SRS residents.
To facilitate environments within which participants feel safe, comfortable,
respected and involved.
To ensure a high level of input from program participants regarding the detail
and direction of the program.
To maintain respectful and co-operative working relationships with SRS
managers and staff.
To incorporate practical and regular procedures for review and evaluation of
program structure and delivery.
To facilitate linkages into the PSS/Impact Adult Day Programs for SRS
Residents with Psychiatric Disabilities.
Defining the Role of Program Staff
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To deliver weekly group activities and outings to Peninsula SRS residents
To ensure that the requirements of the program philosophy (above) are met
To promote other PSS services to appropriate PSS target group