Creating a that cares for

LINK is active in developing what Davis calls “an integrated community of care”. This approach recognises and seeks to support and amplify the enormous and vital roles played by a client’s family, friends, community members and neighbours. “We need to be aware of carers’ wellbeing, too,” Davis says. “We need to help them to give the care they want to give.”

The role of a carer is an essential component of the care system and a vital part of each individual’s journey. But it’s not an easy job, as anyone who has looked after a loved one will tell you. Which is why it’s imperative to ensure that helpers themselves are helped, to minimise potential burn-out and encourage and empower their longer-term involvement.

And that is something Dr Danny Davis, managing director of LINK Community & Transport in Melbourne, is passionate about.

A community-based, not-for-profit social enterprise, LINK helps people stay safe, happy and healthy in their own homes, remaining connected to services and community. Its volunteer and staff teams provide home and garden help, maintenance, transport, social activities and outings across metropolitan Melbourne, growth corridors and select regional locations.

According to Davis, what’s most needed is a more user-friendly support system, one that avoids creating unnecessary and unhelpful frustration, overwhelm and feelings of helplessness.