Staff Matters 50 by Afford

Staff Matters Apr 15, 2016- Issue 50 Week 41

Congratulations to the graduates!

Staff Matters

Staff Matters In this Issue

AFFORD remembers ANZAC Day

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In this Issue

Grant works with wood at Guildford

• Staff Survey

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Page 4 L to R - Sofia Hadarin, Joseph Cabrera, Brooke Taylor, Steve Herald, new CEO AFFORD, Dean Simpson and Julie Larney

Five employees from the Ingleburn factory have received their Statement of Attainment in Employee Work Skills after graduating from a NSW first Employment Work Skills Program. AFFORD, in conjunction with South Western Sydney Institute (SWSi) TAFE NSW, developed the Employment Work Skills Program to increase the skills of supported employees with disability. The Program is the first of its kind in NSW to provide a fully recognised qualification within the NSW TAFE system. The three module Employment Work Skills Program is studied over eight weeks and covers subjects such as communication skills in the workplace; managing workplace information; and active participation in the Workplace Health and Safety process. The graduation of five employees was held Tuesday, 31 March 2015 at the Ingleburn site in front of an audience of parents, carers and fellow employees.

• TTR for Lesley • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

Welcome to the first edition of Staff Matters. This newsletter is a means for all staff to share and contribute information. You will receive Staff Matters weekly via your AFFORD email address, and hard copies will also be circulated. As the title states, the contribution of staff to AFFORD is vital to the continued success of AFFORD and the clients that we provide services to.

Page 3 L to R - Paul Jonoski Bilal Ghamrawi, Gregory Collins with staff member Katarzyna Ross

L to R - Jack Lee & Coreena Fantella

Last Friday the 24th April customers from Day Programs at Guildford and Lakemba, joined with customers from Ashfield Day Program to visit the war memorial cenotaph at Ashfield Park to remember our fallen soldiers on the 100th Anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli. During the week each site had Arts and Craft sessions to design and make their own floral wreaths to lay in commemoration of ANZAC Day. One of the Ashfield Disability Support Workers, Heidi Suhle, who had previously served in Australian Armed Forces, read out the “Ode to the Fallen” as the wreaths were laid by the customers. Coreena Fantella, the Ashfield Team Leader also gave a talk on the meaning of ANZAC Day. After the wreath laying ceremony, everyone headed back to the Ashfield Day Program site for a BBQ lunch and a joint music program in the afternoon.

I encourage everyone to take ownership of this publication and forward any suggestions as to what you would like to read about in future editions to Fiona and Deb in the Communications team.

Introducing new staff member Tristan Owen who is assisting Chris Pike in IT he can be contacted on 8805 3733 or 0429774139

Page 4 • Laura loves her job • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

Inside: Results of Staff Survey 2015 New Style Guide coming next week!

Steven Herald

• Staff Profile • DES Liverpool

• Career Success for Ngaire • Style Manual For over 20 Years Lillian Glass has been making over 150 calls a day to sell Cherrywood Raffle Tickets to raise money for AFFORD. This in itself is a remarkable achievement. However, coupled with the fact that Lillian was told in the early 1990’s that she would never work again, makes this feat even more incredible. Originally from Northern Ireland, Lillian came to Australia in 1973, in search of a better lifestyle. In the early 1990’s, Lillian developed a chronic disease and it was then that she was told she would never work again. However, Lillian was never one to lie down or turn her back on a challenge so she decided the doctors were wrong. The Cherrywood Raffle gave her the opportunity she was seeking, when they took her on as a Telemarketer, selling Raffle Tickets to raise funds for the AFFORD. Not only did Lillian survive in this difficult role, she thrived. She is dedicated, resilient and determined to succeed. Lillian rarely misses her target and has raised millions of dollars to assist AFFORD customers. When we asked what makes her so dedicated and successful, Lillian replied “I have a great affinity for people with disability, as I have one myself. I also thrive on chasing down targets knowing that the harder I work, the more money I can raise for people who are less fortunate than I am.” Lillian is the life and soul of the Call Centre and without doubt its loudest member! In her spare time she loves English Football Club, Liverpool, and likes nothing better than spending time with her grandchildren. Recently, her grandson left Australia to become a professional footballer in England and she hopes to follow his career closely, crossing her fingers that one day he may play for her beloved Liverpool FC.

Page 4 • IT Update • TTW Breakfast • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

AFFORD Fact AFFORD built the first sports ground in Australia specially designed for people with disability at Cherrywood in 1979

Pictured: Left - Grant out the front of the workshop and right - Grant hard at work on a project

Grant Smith has been a part of the AFFORD Minchinbury factory team as a supported employee for the last 9 years. During this time Grant has always worked on building his skills up within the workplace. Grant has also taken a keen interest in studying, completing TAFE courses in Horticulture and Agriculture. Grant has been keen to try new things and get involved in projects. An opportunity arose a few months ago with the AFFORD Guildford Day Program who were looking for assistance within their Woodwork program. Grant was eager for the chance to help and for the past 2 months Grant has worked with the Guildford team in their specially developed wood workshop. Grant has learnt many new skills using machinery including how to use electric jig saws, drills and other tools. Grant works with AFFORD Day Program customers from across Sydney and helps them to build all sorts of projects including jewellery boxes, name plaques, letter boxes and bird feeders. Grant is having a great time helping out and supporting other people with disability.

• Ashfield Wheelie Warriors • Eliza at Les Miserable

Page 4 • Morning Tea • TTR Overseas Visitor • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

IT Support

Don’t forget Tristan’s mobile

0429774139

AFFORD Fact

IT Update We have developed an IT Issue tracking section on the Intranet. This is under the Information Technology tab and then on the left is ‘IT Issue Tracking’. There is also a document that gives a brief instruction on how to use the tracking. For all non-urgent issues, please log these through the Intranet. For all other matters please either contact Tristan on 0429774139 or send an email to it@afford.com.au.

The first AFFORD office in 1951 was in Milsons Point and in 1953 the office moved to the Pacific Highway at Turramurra when AFFORD received the gift of a significant home called Cherrywood (pictured right). Cherrywood is where AFFORD first began to provide services to people with disability.

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Page 4 • LINK Team at Mater Dei • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

AFFORD Fact In 1954, AFFORD established eight branches in regional NSW at Bathurst, Orange, Parkes, Wellington, Dubbo, Mudgee, Boorowa and Wollongong.

On his recent visit to Sydney, Prince Harry was lucky enough to have the opportunity of meeting some wonderful AFFORD customers on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. Customers and staff from the Mt Druitt Day Program travelled into the city hoping that they might get to see the Prince on his last official “walkabout” in Australia. On arrival at the Opera House, DSW Ursula Todd, approached a security guard and asked him if there was anywhere that they could stand with some people in wheelchairs where they might have the opportunity to see the Prince. The warm hearted security guard made a special roped off area where the Mt Druitt customers could all be accommodated on their own. Front row seats!

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

June 19, 2015 - Issue 9 Week 51

June 12, 2015 - Issue 8 Week 50

Peter and Frank Support the Eels

In this Issue Page 1 • Peter and Frank Support Eels

Page 2 • Staff Profile • New Cafe at Canley Vale

Page 3 Pictured above: Peter Field

Pictured above: Frank Blazi

On Saturday the 11th April, Peter Field and Frank Blazi, AFFORD customers from the Chipping Norton Day Program, went to the football match between Parramatta and Titans at Pirtek Stadium in Parramatta. Both Peter and Frank are passionate about supporting the Eels and this trip was organised by DSW Jenny Hedges, who through her connections organised four free tickets to the game. Frank and Peter were taken to the game by Chipping Norton DSWs Kim Snell and Aman Prasad. Both Peter and Frank had a wonderful afternoon watching their favourite team play. This gave them the opportunity to interact with other Eels supporters and the atmosphere put the guys in high spirits for the whole game. Even though the weather was not the best and the Eels were beaten by the Titans, you can see by the smiles on their faces that they had a great day out smiling and cheering for their team. What a wonderful team effort by all the staff at Chipping Norton Day Program to help their customers achieve their dreams.

• Big Morning Tea at Condell Park • Surprise Lunch at Minto

Page 4 • Ashfield Morning Tea • AFFORD Selfies • Chalk and Talk at Penrith

AFFORD Fact In 1964, the site at Llandilo for the building of Cherrywood was approved. Plans were developed for a state of the art rural accommodation facility for people with disability.

June 26, 2015 - Issue 10 Week 52

Announcement from the CEO

In this Issue

As you know, AFFORD supports hundreds of people with disabilities every day. We now operate from 32 sites across Greater Western Sydney. Our front line staff are dedicated to their clients providing first class service with integrity, empathy, cooperation and respect.

• Announcement from CEO

Any CEO coming into a new organisation will assess the company’s strengths, weaknesses, financial performance and priorities and look for opportunities. I came to AFFORD because of its rich history and reputation for providing high quality support and services for people with disability through its award winning, innovative programs.

AFFORD has great success stories and I am here to ensure that the success stories continue as we enter into the brave new world of the NDIS. I acknowledge that the organisation has had various senior acting arrangements in place over a number of years and I thank you for your resilience. After careful review of AFFORD’s operations and its future direction, it is now time to start making modifications to our operations. We need to think and act differently and smarter to prepare ourselves for an NDIS future. This means it’s time for change. No longer can we plod along conducting business as usual waiting for NDIS to hit us. We need to be more efficient and do more with our assets and working capital to maximise returns so we can reinvest back into providing more services for our clients.

We need a structure that will help shift AFFORD from a provider of welfare to an organisation that empowers its front line business to make decisions, together with clients, on the services they need to allow them to shape their own lives. We need a structure that takes AFFORD onto the next chapter of its evolution. A commercial evolution. It will be a difficult time in our organisation over the next month as people transition out of the organisation. I acknowledge their contribution and AFFORD will provide them with support to assist them during this process. As an organisation, I’m sure you will support your fellow colleagues as much as you can.

• Stay Healthy in Flu Season

We have set up a support line – 1800 818 728 if staff need someone to talk to other than their immediate manager. You can also contact me on steven.herald@afford.com.au and I will answer any questions you may have. The Board and I are dedicated to the successful operations of AFFORD and proud of the wonderful work our staff and partners do every day in helping people with disability in Greater Western Sydney. We will continue striving for excellence in service delivery while we build a stronger organisation to address the challenges ahead. Yours Faithfully, Steven Herald

Page 4 • Mandy Best at Bowls • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

AFFORD Fact In 1966 AFFORD were the recipients of the largest grant ever given by the NSW Department of Social Services to a disability organisation, when they granted $149,031 to assist in the construction of Cherrywood Village.

Part of that decision was to allow employers to absorb the increase into any over-Award payments, thereby reducing the amount of the over-Award margin received by staff. As an Employer Of Choice, AFFORD has always prided itself on ensuring that it pays well above the Award rate and is very competitive in ensuring you as the employee are well remunerated for your dedication and services to AFFORD. So we announce that AFFORD has decided to pay 2% increase on the over-Award (or ‘AFFORD’) rate. That is, the increase will be payable on your actual hourly rate. All fortnightly staff, your wage increase is effective from pay period commencing 13 July 2015. All supported employees, your wage increase is effective from pay period commencing 8 July 2015. All monthly staff, you will receive your increase in the 15 July 2015 payment. Any staff who are currently paid the published award rate will receive a 2.5% increase (this includes supported employees). We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our staff and employees for constantly endeavouring to provide excellent customer service and for their dedication towards AFFORD’s Mission, Vision and Values.

• Success for Annette with DES • Guildford Work Shop Training

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AFFORD Fact In April, 1970, AFFORD opened its third ADE at Sackville Street at Canley Vale. AFFORD now had three ADEs at Bankstown, Cherrywood and Canley Vale.

With the introduction of the NDIS on the horizon AFFORD has completed a review of current IT systems. It was discovered during the review that both the current information system (ACED) and JIWA are not compatible under the NDIS model and it would be too expensive to adjust the systems to meet the new requirements. A tender process was then undertaken for a new system with more than 15 applicants, some from overseas, which were then narrowed down to 2 finalists. From the final two the clear winner was Liveware CIMsability as it was able to do almost everything on the AFFORD wishlist. It is easy to use, offers good financial control and is accessible from portable devices. It also offers an all in one solution covering finance, ADE and client services as part of the package. It achieves this by using Microsoft Dynamics NAV as its backbone, with real time rostering and award interpretation using Nav’s processing power. Their head office is in NSW with staff in the greater Western Sydney area which makes support so much easier. The Board has approved the new system and it is anticipated that it will be implemented by 1st November 2015 which will make life easier under the NDIS.

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

From DSW to Lifestyle Assistant

Page 2 • Staff Profile • Kings Park Break Bunnings Record • Opportunity Knocks at Belmore • LAPS

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The monthly prize winners will also be considered for the amazing end of year grand prizes. These grand prizes will be well worth winning! For first prize the winner receives a trip for 2 to Hawaii, second prize is a trip for 2 to Gold Coast and third prize is a night at a hotel in the city (Sydney).

• Possable Ideas Expo • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

AFFORD Fact From the beginning of 1988, AFFORD’s Art Unions were replaced by Lotteries, still held four times a year. Fundraising activities continued to revolve around Lotteries, Appeals, the Cherrywood Cup and an annual Cherrywood Fete.

Lifestyle Assistant it is! There has recently been some debate at AFFORD about the term for our Disability Support Workers (DSWs) and whether that name was the most appropriate title going forward in the new world of NDIS. Many staff felt there were better terms and suggestions were made for titles such as Social Educator, Personal Assistant, Lifestyle Companion and Lifestyle Assistant. Some staff were of the opinion that a few of these titles had some negative connotations and that the name needed to be proactive, modern and also reflect that moving forward the customer is in charge. After some feedback from staff and a vote by Day Program sites and managers, we are pleased to announce the title of Lifestyle Assistant was chosen as it best represents the services that are provided across AFFORD and the whole life service approach AFFORD takes to support the customer in achieving their goals. Lifestyle Assistant will be the title moving forward!

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

The Launch of KBP Products

AFFORD Fact On the 12th June 1989, Cherrywood Village turned 21 and a special dinner, with a menu chosen by Cherrywood Residents, was held to mark the occasion. Later that year, on the 19th October, Bowman Tea Rooms were officially opened by AFFORD’s then President Dr Malcolm Borland.

All the nominations presented were worthy of winning the award. They were all discussed by the voting panel and it was definitely a tough decision for the panel. First prize winner was Michelle Jeffery, Coordinator, Accommodation Services. Over the past month, Michelle has shown her willingness to go over and above for our customers on numerous occasions. This included an emergency medication/staffing matter where she attended on the weekend to manage the situation and made herself available throughout the night when we had a long power outage at Cherrywood. Michelle constantly makes herself available to help out the team by taking shifts or doing duties without fuss and was a key member of the team of people who assisted through the life changing hospitalisation/ surgery of one of our clients and the changes to his ongoing care requirements. Second prize winner, Helen Berridge, Coordinator, Windsor and Mount Druitt Day Programs once again showed her innovation and understanding of our customers in organising a large event for AFFORD customers. This time it was AFFORDs Got Talent which was an amazing success and a few months ago it was the immensely successful Harmony Day. Third prize winner, Sarah Vandermeer, Accounts Payable Officer was nominated because of her bubbly and positive attitude - she is always happy to help, nothing is too much trouble and she is outstanding at her job. We congratulate all the following nominees: Julie Shaw, Lifestyle Assistant, Lakemba Day Program, Boris Zdralic, Business Development Specialist, DES Layla Naji, Team Leader, Bankstown DES, Peter Tindall, Supervisor, Prestons, Indra Krothapalli, Lifestyle Assistant, Green Valley Day Program, Maryam Montagami, Lifestyle Assistant, Green Valley Day Program, Kym Mafi, Lifestyle Assistant, Kings Park Day Program Joseph Munoz, Lifestyle Assistant, Penrith Day Program, Neville Bergofher, Leading Hand, Minto, Fred Etuk, Lifestyle Assistant, Campbelltown Day Program, Carol El-Achi, Lifestyle Assistant, Guildford Day Program.

In this Issue

In May, 1980 in an endeavour to run its own business and reduce dependency on sub contract work, AFFORD purchased a company known as Feeney Electronics. The business made electronic light dimmers under the brand names of “Computalite” and “Moonglo.” These units were found in many of the large hardware and department stores throughout NSW.

Staff Matters

October 2, 2015 - Issue 24 Week 13

In this Issue

Looking for Talented Lifestyle Assistants

In this Issue Page 1 • AFFORD is Looking for Talent

Page 2 • Staff Profile • Procurement Policy

AFFORD Fact In January 1994, FODI Engineering Services began operations from the Liverpool Factory, commencing with the manufacture of components for the hydraulic industry – mainly hose fittings, manifolds and sub plates.

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A large number of participants at Blacktown and Kings Park Day Programs are very excited about the latest AFFORD initiative with the recent launch of the KPB All Naturals product range - a Social Enterprise. Customers at these Day Programs have been eagerly learning how to make the products which include bath salts and candles. The participants are then supported by staff in filling orders, delivering orders and taking payments. It is amazing to see how keen customers are to be involved this project and AFFORD look forward to extending the product lines. $400 worth of product has already been sold and as such all participants have been kept extremely busy keeping up the supply. The products are all 100% natural, are made by the participants at Kings Park and Blacktown, look and smell amazing and would make the perfect gift so please keep this in mind when it comes to your gift giving purchases. Why not get on board the KPB train!

• Green Thumbs Grant • John Meets Local Firies Pictured above: Dennis in the garden

Dennis Ryan has worked as a supported employee in the AFFORD Marrickville factory for ten years. He joined Canterbury City Community Centre – Garden Care Program in September 2013, as part of his Transition to Retirement Plan at AFFORD. Canterbury City Community Centre’s Garden Care program (Easy Care Gardening & Lawn Mowing) offers a gardening and lawn mowing service which assists frail aged people and younger people with disabilities and their carers to remain in their own homes. We are proud to announce Dennis has been nominated in the NSW Volunteer Awards – Sydney Inner West 2015. The whole Garden Care Team from Canterbury City Community Centre has been nominated and Dennis is the individual volunteer nominated from the Garden Care Team. The announcement of the winner for Volunteer of the Year will be at the award ceremony Dennis will attend with members of the Garden Care Team on Wednesday 23 September. Congratulations on the nomination Dennis!

AFFORD Fact

• AFFORD Shopping Trip

AFFORD Community Participation Programs are always searching for projects to get customers involved in learning new skills and interacting with the community.

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T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

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Pictured above: Customers from Blacktown and Kings Park participating in making the products

Beyond

Page 2 • Staff Profile • Our Expectations

Pictured above: Michelle Jeffrey and Blanca Lopez

Sharon Jennings, Wendy Bricknell, Suzette Montana, Ngaire Mckecknie, Pat Marshall, Michelle Jeffrey and Blanca Lopez all recently attended a 7am training session at Nepean hospital in Penrith in support of Paul Drew’s care and management of his stoma colostomy. Paul had major surgery and staff attended training to learn about how to care for him, so they could then train other Cherrywood staff. Sharon came after finishing night shift, Ngaire and Wendy who were off duty volunteered their time, Suzette came back early after finishing duty the night before and Pat came in early before work to attend the training. Michelle and Blanca also attended the training and they are always there as support whenever residents need them. Nursing staff at Nepean and the Stoma Educator were impressed with the interactions AFFORD staff had with Paul and how he responded to staff with such enthusiasm given how difficult his hospitalisation and surgery was for him. These staff members embody the AFFORD mission and values and they represented AFFORD in an impeccable manner. Congratulations and well done to everyone involved.

Page 4 • Lilly Loves Guildford • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

AFFORD Fact In 1973, AFFORD moved its administrative headquarters to North Terrace, Bankstown and in the same year announced plans for developing a recreational BBQ area at the Cherrywood Village site.

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

AFFORD reach for the stars - 5 star that is!

September 11, 2015 - Issue 21 Week 10

In this Issue

The AFFORD Lifestyle

Page 1

In this Issue Page 1

• AFFORD Reach for the stars

• The AFFORD Lifestyle

• Group Home Update • David Lands His Dream Job

• Liam Visits Chipping Norton • A Grant for Marrickville

Page 4 • Penrith Expo • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

As part of being an Employer of Choice and to utilise and build upon employee knowledge and skills, AFFORD would like to invite those Lifestyle Assistants who have some special and perhaps hidden talents among us to step forward for a new and exciting challenge. For those who have a qualification we are looking for suitably qualified people to provide services or structured programs for Community Participation Programs in the following areas:

Page 4 • AFFORD Partner with UWS • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

1. Music 2. Fitness

AFFORD Fact The highlight of 1994 was the visit to Cherrywood Village of the State Governor, Rear Admiral Peter Sinclair AC, to re-open the Cherrywood Gardens and Swimming Pool. The Governor also launched an Appeal to raise $180,000 over three years to purchase a Community House for people with high support needs.

AFFORD Fact

3. Massage 4. Driver Training 5. Cooking & Healthy Diet If you do not have a certified qualification but still feel you have the required skills in any of these areas you can put forward a case which will be reviewed by management. The rate of pay offered while undertaking the actual provision of services or structured programs will be an extra $10 per hour. So get in quickly and let the management team know of your talents!

The hard work put in by staff and management at AFFORD in documenting procedures and carrying out internal audits finally paid off in 1996 when the first four FODI Industries Factories at Bankstown, Campbelltown, Liverpool and Marrickville achieved ISO 9002 Certification.

Pictured above: The Fairfield DES team

AFFORD are proud to announce that two of our four DES sites have been awarded a 5 star rating by the Department of Social Services. The star ratings system measures the relative success of providers in achieving an outcome for customers participating in the program. Ratings are from one to five stars, with one being the lowest and five being the highest achievement. The AFFORD Fairfield and Bankstown DES sites have achieved an outstanding rating of 5 stars, followed by Liverpool who achieved a 4 star rating and Blacktown who achieved a 3 star rating. While it is wonderful to receive the recognition from the Department for the work undertaken by our sites, the important thing is that the star ratings recognise the incredible results achieved by AFFORD consultants who work really hard to source employment opportunities and create a sense of achievement and purpose for our customers which improves their quality of life. Congratulations to the teams at Fairfield and Bankstown for achieving a 5 star rating.

• Staff Profile • Customer Service Awards

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• Daffodil Day for Condell Park • AFFORD Expo Experts

Page 4 • Chipping Norton Welcome Buggsy • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

AFFORD Fact In November 1990, an Open Golf Day was held at Dunheved Golf Club as part of the AFFORD Fundraising Program. This event was so successful that it was decided to hold it annually as an additional fundraising activity.

On the 2nd January 1990, AFFORD acquired Mitchell Manufacturing from The Royal Blind Society, increasing the number of Foundation factories to five. A new dimension was added to the range of disabilities catered for with the transfer to AFFORD of Visually Impaired Employees.

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• Staff Profile • Ashfield’s Outdoor Adventures

• Guildford Open Day • Hamper of Hope Pictured above: The AFFORD crew having a ball at Moreton Island

AFFORD Respite hosted their first supported holiday last week and it was an outstanding success. Tammy Mills organised the holiday, which was a supported cruise involving a 5 day cruise to Moreton Island on P&O Pacific Jewel from 3rd Sept to 7 Sept 2015. This was a fantastic opportunity for our customers to experience something most people take for granted in going on a holiday with their friends while still being supported in their everyday activities. It was also an opportunity for the families and carers to receive some well deserved respite. As you can see from the photo everyone had an absolute ball on the cruise. Tammy received lots of great stories from the clients on board and they were all grinning ear from ear when talking about what they did on the cruise. AFFORD staff even had parents on board approach them for contact details as they wanted their loved one to have a experience like our customers. This is the first of many different and exciting AFFORD supported holidays we have planned for the future - the next one is a supported holiday to Canberra.

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

October 16, 2015 - Issue 26 Week 15

Welcome to Issue Number 25 of Staff Matters, a quarter of a century already!

AFFORD Shine at the ‘Walk of Hope’

First and foremost I would like to say a big Thank You to everyone for your support of the many changes we have made and the ongoing teamwork and customer service that you contribute every day at work. You are what makes Afford special, and what makes me confident that we will succeed in the totally different world of the NDIS.

In this Issue Page 1 • AFFORD Shine at the ‘Walk of Hope’

The decision to totally ‘privatise’ the sector, with the Government exiting from providing any services, and opening up the Sector to be a competitive market means that the sector will never be the same again. The reason all advanced economies such as Canada, the UK etc. have done this, is to give choice to customers and see competitive pressures bring greater efficiency & innovation. Overseas it has worked and in the test sites in Australia it has seen over 90% satisfaction rates from clients. We must not look back, we are moving from a relationship driven environment to a high volume customer service environment.

Page 2 • Staff Profile • Mt Druitt Makeover • Looking For Crazy Ideas

To achieve efficiency we have created a much leaner Head Office structure, and I hope you have noted that we have not done anything that affects the provision of front line services to our customers on a day to day basis. To help this efficiency we are introducing the new version of CIMSability and Microsoft Dynamics NAV. Already it is clear that these will totally transform our business. The elimination of many disparate systems will see the structure we have now able to meet the very high chargeable time targets we will need to survive under the NDIS. You will see that CIMSability is now live and has replaced ACED is many areas and by December this will be total, across everything including Payroll and Finance. As you have probably seen already, I delivered on my promise of system speed, and the new systems are quick as a flash on whatever device you access them. CIMsability eliminates many manual tasks such as timesheets, freeing staff up to spend more time with clients and its functionality on mobile devices is amazing. Not only will this put us ahead of our competitors but we are now able to provide Shared Services to smaller companies in the sector.

Page 3 • Police Check Coming Up • Turning It Up at Green Valley

We have also taken on ELMO as our eLearning platform. We are now developing our first site inductions and planning ‘Afford’ising all of the base modules in the ELMO library. This month will see the beginning of training on the system and a new era in more training and more regular refreshers for Afford staff. Face to face training will still be happening for Total Inductions, First Aid and the like with greater focus on baseline training.

On Saturday 10th October AFFORD attended Western Sydney’s Walk of Hope day; showcasing the wonderful activities our customers take part in our programs.

To guide us every day we need good Policies & Procedures in place. We are writing P&P covering all operational areas to avoid any confusion around expectations. We have listened to you regarding confusion around duplication, mixing of Standards and Policies etc. etc. The new Policies will be succinct yet take the guessing out of the situations you find yourself in every day, and protect us as a Company in dealing with all circumstances in a consistent and prudent way.

With a display of paintings, candle packs, bath salts and woodworks AFFORD were a big hit, showing how innovative we are as an organisation.

The implementation of the P.AC.E.S. will give staff the opportunity to be rewarded for going the extra mile (or kilometre!). Customer Service is about delighting customers! Along with our Customer Service Awards, P.AC.E.S. will give a clearly defined set of KPIs that bring focus to the many little things in Operations that help us delight our customers. Consistently. L.A.P.s also bring focus to the many things we do that makes Afford special.

AFFORD Fact

Page 2 Pictured above: The Bankstown DES team

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

Members at AFFORD who attended a function with Parramatta City Council and NFP groups yesterday were very proud

Page 4 • Accomodation Graduation • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

AFFORD Fact In 1997, the Board approved the purchase of land at Minchinbury and the construction of a new building to house a new Head Office, administration base and factory. Also the Ingleburn Factory opened and a Training Centre was established at Canley Vale.

Our new website will blow your socks off. Not only will it have a modern look and feel aided by our modern new branding, but we will be taking the lead and hosting various market leading utilities such as an e-Market for Disability Carers and a Community Portal. These will provide an important tool to our customers and carers alike, and draw traffic to our brand and services. Exciting new services such as Afford Active Lifestyle Club and Afford Getaways will further help in re-establishing us as the market leader in the Western Suburbs. Finally, our rebranding will take us into the new world with a unique and fun presence in the market. I thank you all for your involvement in this process. Our vehicles will soon be sign-written and building awareness of our brand every day. We have a great team of people and some newbies bringing specialist skills to help us catch up in the race to be ready by 1 July 2016. Thanks again. The last 6 months has been a blast, and I am very excited for the future of Afford! Take Care

Steve T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

Page 3 • TTW Trivia Night

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

October 9, 2015 - Issue 25 Week 14

The past 6 months have seemingly passed in a blur, and so much has happened that I wanted to take a moment to recognise how far we have come already.

Page 4 • Grab a Mug at Huggamugg • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

Staff Matters

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

Pictured above: Pat Marshall and Ngaire McKechnie

Staff Matters

September 4, 2015 - Issue 20 Week 9

In this Issue

Page 2

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

• The Launch of KBP Products

Page 3

AFFORD Fact In 1970, AFFORD announced plans to double the size of the workshop at Cherrywood at an estimated cost of $21,000. The program was to be a community effort organised by the Penrith Apex Club, which hoped to raise $7,000.

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

• Staff Profile • Cupcakes For Ashfield

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• Staff Profile • Kick the Cancer Stick

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• Kings Park Turns 10 • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

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• Blacktown Disco Divas • Cover Girl Renee

• Snow Peas are Ready

• Mater Dei Dinner • Cherrywood Artists

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• Congratulations Dennis

• Kings Park Meet Celebs • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

• Staff Profile • Nathan Finds His Passion

• Have A Laugh

• AFFORD Conference

Pictured above: Rhiannon O’Brien and David Bell in front of HMAS Choules

AFFORD recently entered into an exciting 3 year partnership with HMAS Choules. The partnership means the vessel and crew will fundraise and allow us to work with them promoting the AFFORD brand and activities. Future AFFORD events are likely to include a cocktail party on board the HMAS Choules, client and family tours of the vessel and we will also have navy volunteers who will attend AFFORD events. The HMAS Choules (L100) is a Bay-class landing ship that served with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary from 2006 to 2011, before being transferred to the Royal Australian Navy. The vessel was built as RFA Largs Bay by Swan Hunter in Wallsend. Rhiannon O’ Brien and David Bell are pictured on a recent visit to the ship. AFFORD previously had a partnership with HMAS Kanimbla however the boat was decommissioned in 2012.

Staff Matters

August 28, 2015 - Issue 19 Week 8

Dennis Nominated for Volunteer of the Year

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• Michelle Flynn

• Guildford Bocce Stars • AFFORD Selfies

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• Staff Profile • EID Celebration Condell Park

Staff Matters

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Pictured above: Linda Downey and Paul Mitchell

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September 25, 2015 - Issue 23 Week 12

• Community Grant for AFFORD

Recently AFFORD received a total of $6,100 from Bankstown City Council in the Community Grants Program for 2015-2016. The cheque was presented to Paul Mitchell from Condell Park Day Program by the Mayor of Bankstown, Linda Downey. These funds will be utilized for many community activities such as social outings and sporting activities for many people with disabilities. Bankstown City Council are great supporters of AFFORD and over the years they have enabled AFFORD to provide many great social activities and community participation opportunities to our customers, greatly enhancing the quality of life for these participants and their families.

• Bright Idea for Clients • Kings Park Xmas in July

• A Tiara for Coreena • AFFORD Selfies • Have a laugh

We are proud to announce there was an overwhelming response from staff for the first ever Customer Service Awards within AFFORD. HR received 15 nominations from across various divisions within the organisation. All nominations provided great insight into the fantastic work of staff who have gone ‘above and beyond’ to please their customers, whether ‘external’ and/or ‘internal’.

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In this Issue

AFFORD Fact In 1971, the Cherrywood Cup, a fundraising activity which was a Ladies’ Golfing Competition that had been running since 1953, achieved its greatest result yet. Records note that over $2,000 had been raised in 1971.

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

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Page 2 • Staff Profile • Success for Samantha

Staff Matters

September 18, 2015 - Issue 22 Week 11

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Page 4 • Minchinbury Welcome Staff • AFFORD Selfies • Have A Laugh

Staff Matters

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12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

Pictured L to R: David Bowen (rear), Ross Fowler, Fiona Scott, John Ajaka, Erin Kester

On the 1st July, 2015, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), opened the country’s very first shop front - the Nepean Blue Mountains NDIS shop front and the event was attended by one of our AFFORD board members, Ross Fowler. The launch of the opening was attended by NSW Minister for Disability Services, John Ajaka and Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott, who cut the ribbon along with the Mayor of Penrith Cr Ross Fowler OAM, NDIA CEO David Bowen and local Western Sydney mother, Erin Kester and her family. In addition to being the Mayor of Penrith, Ross Fowler is also one of our long serving AFFORD board members. The Nepean Blue Mountains shop front will offer important information about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for people with disability and their families.

• Customer Service Awards

Please keep your nominations coming through!

Staff Matters

Page 1 • AFFORD staff Above and

Left: Michelle Jeffery receiving her award from Steve Herald

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So be on the look out for some great customer service and don’t let it go unnoticed. There are many unsung heroes who work for AFFORD who go above and beyond every day. Get involved and make a difference - next month it could be you that wins!

Community Grant for AFFORD

Customer Service Awards!

• Lifestyle Assistant it is!

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The idea of the Awards is that staff can nominate a staff member they think has provided outstanding customer service in delighting our customers. This also includes internal customer service provided by HR and Finance. From these nominations, each month a winner and 2 runners up will be chosen. The winner for each month receives $250, second prize is $100 and third prize is $50. The judging for the prizes will be by a panel of 6 senior managers and your nominations need to be sent to HR.

In this Issue Page 1

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August 14, 2015 - Issue 17 Week 7

August 7, 2015 - Issue 16 Week 6

In this Issue • Customer Service Awards

We are pleased to announce the launch of the AFFORD Customer Service Awards. We want to reward those staff who go above and beyond to delight their customers. Nominate someone now for the July award!

Staff Matters

July 31, 2015 - Issue 15 Week 5

Customer Service Awards

AFFORD Fact In 1953 AFFORD purchased a property, “Elamang” at Milson Point. It was purchased primarily as a hostel for NSW country people who had contracted polio. It also had a salt water harbour pool which was used for hydrotherapy.

AFFORD Staff Go Above and Beyond In this Issue

HR Team

T 02 8805 3700 E info@afford.com.au

Staff Matters

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July 24, 2015 - Issue 14 Week 4

In this Issue

• Staff Profile • AFFORD Conference

• TTW at Dulwich Hill • Henny Penny Program

• Renee’s TAFE Award • Condell Park Anti Bullying

• TTW Morning Tea • AFFORD Selfies • Have a Laugh

AFFORD Fact In 1964 AFFORD fundraising introduced the Polio Art Union. Four of these were conducted each year. Prizes valued at 20,911 pounds were offered and this included 18 cars, 10 stereograms and a large number of portable transistor radios.

12 Marieanne Place, Minchinbury 2770 afford.com.au

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• High Tea for Carers

Staff Matters

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• Staff Profile • Condell Park Harvest

Page 4 • Ashfield Morning Tea • AFFORD Selfies

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• HMAS Choules on Board

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• Blacktown Expo • AFFORD Selfies • Have a Laugh

On the weekend of 30 and 31 May the AFFORD Board held its annual planning weekend. This year the event was held at the Sebel Resort and Spa at Windsor and all the Board Members and the Executive Team spent the whole day on Saturday working together to develop some strategic plans which will help take AFFORD forward into the future and into the world of the NDIS. It was a great day and everyone participated enthusiastically in the planning process. Everyone got together for dinner on the Saturday night and Dr Malcom Borland, who stepped down recently after 39 years as the President of AFFORD, also attended the dinner. At the end of the evening, current AFFORD President Neville Barnier, presented Dr Borland with the gavel that he had used for all his 39 years as AFFORD president. It had been bronzed and placed in a custom made glass display case, and was given as a small token of our thanks for his 40 years of service to AFFORD. Dr Borland was delighted with the gift and even tried the gavel to make sure that it would still work even if it were bronzed. We are all very grateful for his many years of service, guiding the organisation to its current position as a leader in disability.

shopfront

• Staff Profile • AFFORD Disco

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HMAS Choules On Board with AFFORD

Page 1 • Board Member opens NDIS

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• Staff Profile • Condell Park Record A Song

Fair Work Australia has handed down the National Wage Increase decision for the year 2015-2016, effectively increasing Award wage rates by 2.5%, from the first pay period on or after 1 July 2015.

AFFORD Board Member opens NDIS shopfront In this Issue

Page 1 • New Computer System

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• Staff Profile • Masterchefs at Green Valley • Pay Cycle Change

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New Computer System for AFFORD In this Issue

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AFFORD Fact In 1960, AFFORD opened its first Australian Disability Enterprise at Gow Street, Bankstown.

July 17, 2015 - Issue 13 Week 3

July 9, 2015 - Issue 12 Week 2

July 3, 2015 - Issue 11 Week 1

In this Issue • Pay Increase for AFFORD Staff

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We need to start making this happen and turn AFFORD into a commercial thinking organisation that is well placed for future challenges and opportunities. In this space, I am announcing a new structure and making the hard decision to reduce staff numbers at the middle and senior management levels. The decision to make a number of roles redundant was difficult, but one that had to be done in order to improve efficiency and reduce duplication in order to reshape the organisation to meet the future demands.