to the Autumn issue of Keep Connected Welcome

Since starting with ECH over nine months ago I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many of our clients and residents. I would like to take a moment to thank you for being so welcoming, I was lucky enough to attend many Christmas parties, resident morning teas and to spend more time with our clients at our day programs and social activities.

I’m looking forward to the year ahead and with Management and our Board finalising the organisation’s 5 Year Strategy. This will form an essential part of ensuring that we have a clear roadmap for the future, continue to provide high quality services and attract and retain our people as an employer of choice. This includes ensuring that our workers are recognised for the contribution, positive outcomes and impact they make to our clients and residents’ lives.

Over the next 12 months ECH and the home care industry will continue to see reforms as a response to the Aged Care Royal Commission. This will include the new “Support at Home” funding changes that are aimed at improving customer centred care, tailoring services offered to individuals and the combining of the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home Care Package funding into a simplified offer. It is important for ECH to continue to remain adaptable and forwarded focused to ensure a smooth transition for all of our clients. We will continue to provide updates as the year progresses and what this will mean for you.

In November I was privileged to speak to the Premier and his Cabinet to discuss the future of accommodation, retirement living and age appropriate housing into the future. ECH, have been a long provider of housing and care for aging South Australians and it was an opportunity to discuss the challenges, needs and expectations into the future and the part government have to play. I am looking forward to continuing these conversations to improve the lives of our clients and residents and the access to services in your communities.

Late last year I was humbled to be invited to a number of our villages to celebrate Christmas lunches and morning teas in addition to social gatherings. This is one of the most important ways for me to understand life in our villages and the communities that we build by fostering a sense of belonging.

Strengthening social connections and reaching out to our community engagement team is a great way to connect with others in the ECH community. If you would like to know more about how you can engage with these events and activities, please visit ech.asn.au/community-connect or call 1300 275 324 for more information.

As we look to the coming months I hope you have a wonderful Easter and start to the year.

Warm Regards,

Claire Scapinello ECH Chief Executive