Life & Love Edition 17 by Hall & Prior

Life&Love HALL & PRIOR

ISSUE 17 | SUMMER 2019

H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P

Honouring our exceptional people p10

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT Our young staff in the spotlight p8

Director Michael Hall with Director of Operations Kraig Hoogland at Hall & Prior’s 2018 Directors’ Awards event.

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IN THIS ISSUE 4

From the Chief Executive Officer

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News in Brief

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The Future’s Bright

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Honouring our exceptional staff

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Recognising our long-serving staff

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Grafton Scholar is multi-talented

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Partners in Education

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Education Update

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New Aged Care Quality Standards are Coming

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Spotlight on‌Medication and Lifestyle Coordinator KathWhisson

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Annual Photo Contest Now Open

ABOUT HALL & PRIOR Started in 1992 by Michael Hall and Graeme Prior, Hall & Prior is a leading aged care provider with a passion for providing quality care to older people from all walks of life. Over the past 20 years, Hall & Prior has grown from one nursing home to an organisation that cares for over 1,500 people in Western Australia and New South Wales.

Our people are our greatest asset. Each one of our 24 aged care homes is led by an experienced director of nursing who works alongside a team of

registered nurses, personal carers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dieticians and chefs to ensure that we meet the individual needs of every resident.

As a private, family-owned company, Hall & Prior is committed to bringing long-term benefits to our residents and their families. Our dedicated care teams provide round-the-clock care 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure that every resident feels well cared for and at home.

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From the

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER I am pleased to welcome you to our first edition of Life & Love magazine for 2019.

Through this publication, we share uplifting stories from our homes, and the real ways that our staff are making a difference in the lives of those in our care.

At the end of each year we come together in Perth and Sydney to celebrate our longserving staff. Each year I am inspired by the loyalty and commitment shown by these individuals in the decades they have worked to care for others. We also celebrated our outstanding employees with the annual Directors’ Awards.

Since the introduction of this event in 2011, we have been able to honour the people who work tirelessly every day and who consistently go above and beyond their role to provide the best possible care.

amount of knowledge within this organisation, and I also look forward to seeing our more experienced members of staff excel as mentors and role models.

I am also proud to announce the establishment of two new programs with respected organisations in our community: Dementia Training Australia (DTA) and North Metropolitan TAFE. Thanks to the hard work of our Staff Training & Development Coordinator Felicia Lopez and our home management teams, we will be able to draw on the expertise of these groups to better equip and educate both our existing

In this edition, we look at our young staff and the talent pools we are growing in both Perth and Sydney. In the past few years we have seen the average age of our staff drop significantly, indicating more young people are viewing aged care as a viable career path.

Each year I am inspired by the loyalty and commitment shown by these individuals in the decades they have worked to care for others.

As our nation’s population continues to age at an increasing rate, it is incredibly important to encourage, support and train the next generation of aged care workers. We have a tremendous

staff, and individuals who wish to start a career in aged care.

You can read more about these programs in this edition.

As 2019 unfolds, the Australian aged care sector is currently experiencing a significant amount of turmoil. I firmly believe that the stability of this organisation’s leadership team and their focus on personcentred care will ensure we continue delivering the best possible care.

The year ahead is set to be a busy one for Hall & Prior, and I look forward to sharing more positive stories as we continue to work towards our vision to be a leader in the provision of aged care services in Australia.

GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Hall & Prior 2019 Wellness Initiatives

DON Movements

This month we launch our Wellness Calendar to promote a monthly message topic such as healthy eating, sun safety, mental health and the importance of exercise and fitness.

From February 4 there will be some DON movements in both WA and NSW as we implement our internal change management program to comply with the Single Aged care Quality Framework (SACQF).

A health and wellbeing program can boost productivity, support mental health and help staff to be happier and healthier at work and at home.

In 2018 both the NSW and WA teams participated in their states respective City to Surf events. Judging by the tired, yet smiling faces at the finish line, the event proved a great success. Hall & Prior’s Directors are excited to throw their support behind the upcoming 2019 event.

We will also continue to work with Bupa Wellness who provide a range of resources and health initiatives. One such initiative to be rolled out in March is the delivery of skin checks to the landscape team and select employees who work outdoors.

Keep an eye out at your home for the launch of the 2019 calendar and regular monthly resources.

Our compliance program is rigorous and consultative and work is well underway; it will include a review of our policies, procedures and framework, new education programs, core and clinical updates and an audit for 2019.

100th Birthday - Mei Lu We love a centenarian birthday party at Clover Lea. Popular resident, Mei Lu turned 100 years young on 31 December 2018. Birthdays like these mark a major milestone — with Mei Lu receiving a letter from the Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Mei Lu’s celebrations started with a walk around the home with Lifestyle Officers. On the walk, Mei Lu invited all the other residents to her party.

Throughout the celebrations, she was showered in love by family, friends and staff and showed her joy by waving, smiling and singing. Happy 100th birthday Mei Lu!

A major part of these reviews and changes is to integrate WA and NSW to the maximum extent possible and as such these staff movements will take place;

• Deb Sinclair-Lane will join the NSW team for February and March.

• Jayne Cummings became the Residential Care Manager at Windsor Park in March.

• Mina Pindolia has become the Acting DON at Tuohy for March.

Thank you to Deb, Jayne and Mina for their support during this time.

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Award winner Jaques Sader, Fairfield NSW Fairfield maintenance officer Jaques Sader has received a prestigious Directors’ Award for Achievement.

The award recognises staff who have shown dedication, motivation and real results in the workplace and a commitment to their own professional growth and development.

It’s great to have the residents and staff believe in you,” Jacques said.

“I love the environment, the support of management and that I get to share my ideas.”

Kindness and generosity are just two of the values that Jacques promotes in his professional environment.

“I’m so proud to receive this award. I’ve worked with all the beautiful people at Fairfield for 18 months now and feel so supported and respected.

NEW STARTERS Gaye joined us in January 2019 and has a wealth of experience in the Healthcare financial field. She comes to us from Quantum Radiology, a diagnostic and interventional medical imaging service. Prior to that, Gaye was with AstraZeneca; a global science-led biopharmaceutical company. She is a Sydney local who studied at the University of NSW. Besides all thing finance, Gaye enjoys spending quality time with her family and swimming at the beach or local pool.

Gaye Mancuso Financial Controller (NSW)

Ben joined the team in late 2018 having previously worked for Twilight Aged Care for 16 years as a Lifestyle Coordinator, Nursing Assistant, fleet driver and in catering across five different homes. He has a wide range of experience in aged care and multiple Certificates in the industry.

Ben Chard Lifestyle Coordinator (NSW)

Born in the Sutherland Shire, Ben is a south Sydney local who enjoys music production, the arts and playing in his band. He came to Hall & Prior via a strong recommendation from a former colleague and has become the driving force of ‘best practice’ in our Lifestyle & Wellbeing network.

Welcome to the Hall & Prior family Gaye and Ben.

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT Young carers are integral to Hall & Prior’s care ethos. We spoke to a cross-section from NSW and WA to find out what attracted them to the job and why it’s important to have a mix of ages looking after our communities’ elders.

“What I’m learning on the job is something I would never pick up from my academic training. What the older generation can teach us is beyond what we could imagine.”

Kristine prefers to work at Hall & Prior rather than in the public hospital system because of the continuity of care that aged care provides.

“Hall & Prior looks after its residents in a holistic way. I prefer residential aged care because it gives me the opportunity to build rapport not only with residents, but also their loved ones,” she said.

“There’s a strong community-based approach; everyone looks out for and looks after one another.”

For 30-something registered nurses and carers Kristine Min, Nicola O’Hearn and John Aquirre, stepping into aged care was an easy decision as they all had a natural affinity with older people.

They also wanted to contribute to a rapidly changing industry and highlight it as an often overlooked career choice for younger people.

Kristine Min, Director of Nursing, Glenwood Aged Care, NSW Kristine has worked in aged care for the past 16 years and is also studying Understanding Dementia online at the University of Tasmania. She plans to start her master in advanced nursing practice at Sydney University later this year.

“I’ve worked in aged care since high school,” Kristine said.

“Without the elder generation fighting for this country, there would be no ‘us’. I enjoy it because the resident’s stories are so captivating, inspirational and powerful.

Kristine’s philosophies on aged care are simple; she believes that independence and dignity should be maintained as long as possible.

“The values I have set for my team are to be open and authentic, caring, fearless and courageous,” she said.

“I’m very proud of the new programs I’ve introduced to Glenwood, which include virtual reality, music therapy, resistance band exercise classes and creating a sensory garden patch.

“Our staff morale is high and the team works as one. They’re dedicated, devoted, caring and always go above and beyond.”

“We have a huge pool of talent here and some very committed individuals, that’s a great position for any business to be in,” Mr Prior said.

Hall & Prior CEO Graeme Prior said carers of all ages had a place, with the average age of our care staff now younger than ever before.

“We have a huge pool of talent here and some very committed individuals, that’s a great position for any business to be in,” Graeme said.

“It feels really good to support people here at Tuohy, and I like that we’re open to everyone, no matter what culture or lifestyle.”

“Our average age used to be 45. But that dipped to 32 recently in 2016 as we continue to grow and attract younger carers.

John first started his work in the industry as a carer at Tuohy. He stayed for four years while completing his nursing qualifications. After also working at McDougall Park, he returned to Tuohy in January 2019.

“We have very strong leadership with staff from many different generations and backgrounds; our young staff provide a fresh take on the industry and our older staff provide mentorship and guidance.

“Both are equally important.”

Nicola O’Hearn, Health Training Australia (HTA) trainee, Touhy Aged Care Home, WA Nicola started her traineeship at the end of October 2018, and will finish in May 2019.

Completing the course allowed her to get a placement straight away; before she started Nicola was working in hospitality.

“I chose to come into aged care after seeing the work my Aunt did. She has worked in aged care for 20 years and it really inspired me,” Nicola said.

“The focus for my work is to listen with empathy. In aged care you need a lot of patience and you can’t be pushy. You have to be aware that every resident is different so you can give them what they need.

John Aguirre, Registered Nurse, Tuohy Aged care Home, WA

“Working and studying at the same time was pretty full-on, but I feel lucky I had a really good work environment. The staff here are supportive, which makes things easier,” John said.

“Aged care was one of the first jobs I came into [after high school]. It feels good for the heart to be able to be there for older people.

“I’m seeing a lot of younger people come to work in aged care these days. When I tell people out in the community what I do, there’s positive feedback, but sometimes they say ‘that must be depressing’.

Most people don’t know what it’s really like, it’s great to be able to help care for people.

“I get to spend a lot of time with different people and get to know the little things that make them happy.”

If you’re interested in a career in aged care contact us: info@hallprior.com.au

HONOURING OUR EXCEPTIONAL STAFF At the end of each year, Hall & Prior celebrates the achievements of its staff. Through celebrations in both Sydney and Perth, Chief Executive Officer Graeme Prior, Executive Director Michael Hall and Hall & Prior’s management team all pay tribute to the staff members who have made a difference.

The Directors’ Awards are a reflection of Hall & Prior’s core values: integrity, professionalism, equity, respect, justice, empathy, commitment, loyalty, hospitality and merit. Each year, senior management nominate staff members who continually go above and beyond in their role.

And the winners are...

DIRECTORS AWARDS Outstanding Care and Service

Mimamsha Pant - Sirius Cove

Svenja Birkener - Mayfair Street

Amelyn Manalo - Agmaroy

Fiona McHugh - State Office

Brent Jones - Fresh Fields

Annette Wise - St Lukes

Tim Gerrard - Fresh Fields

Agnes Kiszelewska - St Lukes

Michael Biddulph - Fresh Fields

Chandrika Perera - St Lukes

Korrine Napier - Grafton

Eden Dulay - Agmaroy Jade Linklater - Aubrey Downer Tanya Ramsey - Aubrey Downer Ellen Piano-McLeod - Belmont Ariel Santos - Caroline Chisholm Edna McEwen - Caroline Chisholm Marc (Gian) Labuni - Caroline Chisholm Ling Wang - Clover Lea

Reileen Bizares - Tuohy Sherrie Cunneen - Windsor Park

Diploma of Leadership and Management

Catherine Morland - Windsor Park

Ernest Quetulio - Clarence Estate

Robyn Haines - Tuohy

Back to Country team - Windsor Park

Kelsey Gibson - Concorde

Outstanding Leadership

CEDA Copland Leadership Program 2019

Fresh Fields Laundry - Concorde

Kath Whisson - Mayfair Street

Phil Bedford - Fresh Fields

Jordan Screaigh - Concorde

Reina De Veyra - McDougall Park

Treasa Lonergan - White Oak

Melanie Sanson - Fairfield

Jayne Cummings - Tuohy

Koula Hingano - Fairfield

Wendy Ashwin - Windsor Park

Sereima Koroi - Clover Lea

Linda Giwa - Freshwater Bay

Teams of the Year My Roster Implementation Team - WA

Siji Mol Sebastian - Freshwater Bay

Outstanding Achievement

Madison Santelli - Hamersley

Jacques Sader - Fairfield

Environmental Services Team - NSW

Nicholas Malloch - Hamersley

Tegan Wells - Grafton

Glenwood Food Services Team

Rencel Dedace - Hamersley

Margaret Rayner - Menaville

Administration team - NSW

Time Target Launch Team - NSW

Morning shift care team (Happy Kaur, Shivani Shivani, Hong Anh Ding, Rebecca

Rising Star

Buhari, Pam Harper, Trisha De Los Reyes,

Ganga Bhushal - Clover Lea

St Lukes Medallion

Lyra Lapus - Fairfield

Kraig Hoogland - Fresh Fields

Katy Hart) - Kensington Sally Monteiro - Leighton Jessica Zilujko - Mayfair Street ChoCho Lwin - Menaville Charisse Joshi - Mosman Park Janaya Scholten - Mosman Park Phil Whitehurst - Rockingham Sally Lim - Shangri-La Marianne Lawson - Shangri-La

Elizabeth Payne - Grafton Nicolette Meafua - Sirius Cove

Scholarships Madelyn Glover - Mayfair Street Kristi Holloway - Clarence Andrew Prior - Fresh Fields Ben Foster - Mayfair Street

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Outstanding Leadership Recognises employees in a leadership role that consistently perform above and beyond their job description. Strong, stable leadership is a key part of H&P’s success. Recipients of this award have consistently shown strong guidance, encouraged personcentred care, led by example and inspired their teams to do their best.

Outstanding Achievement Recognises the dedication shown by staff who continually work to achieve positive outcomes.

Recipients have shown a clear commitment to professional growth, and have delivered significant results through their dedicated work.

Outstanding Care & Service Exceptional care is at the core of our organisation, so this award recognises staff who have worked hard to make a difference in the lives of the people in our homes. Recipients have shown exceptional performance, commitment to going beyond their assigned duties, and have made admirable contributions to their home and the organisation as a whole.

Rising Star Recognises committed staff members who have either joined Hall & Prior in the past two years, or who have recently taken on a more senior role. Recipients

have shown exceptional promise for future achievements and long-term growth within Hall & Prior. They take on everyday challenges and show initiative to deliver positive outcomes for our organisation.

Teams of the Year Recognises groups of staff who achieve great outcomes in the spirit of teamwork. Their complementary skills, mutual commitment and work ethic come together to provide exceptional care within our homes.

Scholarship: Our Directors strongly believe in the importance of education and continuing to learn. Since the creation of these annual awards, staff members who have shown interest in further studies have been presented with scholarships. By empowering our staff with access to additional education, we benefit not only the individual, but the people they care for. In 2018, eight scholarships were presented to recipients from various departments.

St Lukes Medallion: Our most prestigious award, the St Lukes Medallion, is reserved for dedicated longterm employees who have made exceptional individual contributions to Hall & Prior and the achievement of our vision,

values and philosophy. There are no nominations for this award; a St Lukes medallion is only awarded by the Directors when a worthy candidate is agreed upon.

In 2018, this award was presented to Director of Operations Kraig Hoogland, who has been a key part of our organisation for almost two decades.

Starting with Hall & Prior in 2001 as the Executive Chef, Kraig’s eagerness and hard work saw him promoted internally three times, firstly to Hospitality Services Manager, then to Operations Manager and now to his current role as Director of Operations.

Kraig works closely with Hall & Prior’s Directors and a large group of internal and external stakeholders to oversee our extensive home enhancement programs. These programs help Hall & Prior’s facilities be more welcoming, accessible and enriching for those in our care.

Known for his unwavering enthusiasm, kindness and reliability, Kraig has dedicated his life to improving the lives of others. The loyalty he has shown during his time with Hall & Prior, and his commitment to our organisation’s core values, make Kraig a worthy recipient of this esteemed award.

RECOGNISING OUR LONG-SERVING STAFF

Hall & Prior’s greatest strength is its people. Each year we are proud to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of our long-serving staff. While these individuals may do vastly different roles, from care staff, to clinical roles, to maintenance, cleaning, food preparation or an administration role, they all have one thing in common; true dedication and commitment to care, and are a shining example of the company value of loyalty.

At the award presentation evenings at the end of 2018, a total of 75 staff members from our New South Wales homes were recognised, as well as 52 from Western Australia. Of this figure, the hard work of staff from White Oak Home Care Services, based in Perth, was also acknowledged as part of this event for the first time.

Congratulations

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again to the following staff members for their dedicated service.

10 YEARS Teresa Maiolo - Agmaroy Evol Brooks - Belmont Fabrice Murthen - Belmont Williams Ampofo - Caroline Chisholm Lennie Rojas - Central Kitchen Tina Wrathall - Central Laundry Yvonne Christie - Clarence Estate Kathy Crowley - Clarence Estate Natalie Skalko - Clarence Estate Ash Stephenson - Clarence Estate Jan Warrington - Clarence Estate Nola Galos - Clarence Community Mark Henson - Clarence Community Devi Sapkota - Clover Lea Jian Sang - Concorde Vickey Abraham - Fairfield Anita Bonczyk - Fairfield

Robyn Haines - Tuohy

Losekaniti Ikani - Clover Lea

Karen Sanders - Tuohy

Zorana Oxwell - Concorde

Shirley Wedgewood - Tuohy

Van Thi Nguyen - Fairfield

Hendrick Dela Cruz - Vaucluse

Dianne Goldsmith - Freshwater Bay

Manezheh Jafari - Vaucluse

Inoka Atapattu - Sirius Cove

Denise Cassidy - White Oak Claire Pullin - White Oak

25 YEARS

Shona Harris - White Oak

Glenda Barker - Hamersley

Sara Zanki - White Oak

Raydia Mitchell - Glenwood

Mayumi Huartson - White Oak

Vasiti Naco - Glenwood

Anne-Marie Ombrasine - White Oak

Julie Warhurst - Windsor Park

Sue Rhoder (13 years) - White Oak Salimatu Sheriff - Windsor Park Hortense Dabire - Windsor Park Kidane Sequar - Windsor Park Joy O’Grady - Windsor Park Maureen Byrne - Windsor Park

30 YEARS Shirley Kueh - Kensington Park

35 YEARS Margaret Rayner - Menaville

15 YEARS

Asena Ricketts - Shangri-La

Jai Wati Lal - Fairfield

Ellen Piano-Mcleod - Belmont

Julie Renee Marriott - Fairfield

Li Yang - Caroline Chisholm

Priscilla Sioson - Fairfield

Amanda Hurley - Clarence Estate

Maria Valenzuela Pallero - Fairfield

Carolyn Lightly - Clarence Estate

Arnan Dangpuang - Glenwood

Sereima Koroi - Clover Lea

Siew Yin Khoo - Glenwood

Nancy Pilar Palomino Medina (Heredia)

Nithivadee Wattanaparada - Glenwood

- Fairfield

Angela Ralston - Grafton

Suzanne Moloney - Freshwater Bay

Sharon Stephens - Grafton

Vilavun Phithakkiat - Glenwood

Kelly Stephenson - Grafton

Anita Ellis - Grafton

Helga Goche - Kensington Park

Diane Besestri - Grafton

Grace Phiri - Leighton

Mesfin Tesfai - Leighton

Theo Uwimana - Leighton

Mary Elwin - McDougall Park

Bree Gebretensai - Leighton

Grigory Averbukh - Menaville

Shiwa Atoy - Leighton

Suzanne Ferguson - Mosman Park

2018 ACCREDITATIONS • Agmaroy Aged Care Home • Belmont Aged Care Home • Clover Lea Aged Care Home • Glenwood Aged Care Home • Grafton Aged Care Home • Hamersley Aged Care Home • Leighton Aged Care Home • McDougall Park Aged Care Home • Menaville Aged Care Home • Shangri-La Aged Care Home • Vaucluse Aged Care Home

Sadia Kedir Tamene - Leighton

Maya Costa - Shangri-La

Linda Jackson - Mayfair Street

Priti Tiwari - Shangri-La

Mary Somerset - Mayfair Street

Zosimo Gaspi - Shangri-La

Angelina Fraga - McDougall Park

Pushpa Kaluarachchige Don - Sirius

Reina De Veyra - McDougall Park

Cove

Judy Wilson - McDougall Park

Antonia Moraitis - Sirius Cove

Mele Akauola - Menaville

Siniva Samaauga - Sirius Cove

Emma Juretic - Menaville

Christine Grady - State Office

Michelle Crocker - Mosman Park

Owen Hesford - Tuohy

Cindy Vegar - Rockingham

Snezana Martinovic - White Oak

Alima Dongol - Shangri-La

Karl Reinmuth - Windsor Park

Crystal Gaw - Fairfield

Elina Dongol - Shangri-La Yan Lu - Sirius Cove

20 YEARS

Vaaia Sialei Stehlin - Sirius Cove

Sue Gilroy - Agmaroy

Kyrsten Jade Grady - State Office

Irene Griffin - Agmaroy

Rachel Desta - St Lukes

Alice Rodrigo - Belmont

Retirement acknowledgements: Cate Barlow 11 years at Kensington Park Di Simpson 40 years at St Lukes

GRAFTON SCHOLAR IS MULTI-TALENTED Grafton Aged Care Home’s Lifestyle Officer Korrine Napier was recently awarded a Hall & Prior Scholarship Award.

The award symbolises a commitment from Hall & Prior Directors Graeme Prior and Michael Hall to encourage further education and skills development for staff who are passionate about what they do.

motivation and commitment to care.

The scholarship will contribute towards the cost of further education for Korrine in the field of ‘Residential Aged Care Lifestyle & Wellbeing’.

“I really enjoy working in aged care and can absolutely say that this is my calling. I’m very committed to what I do,” she added.

“I’m really excited about undertaking my lifestyle qualification with this scholarship. I feel so grateful to be given an amazing opportunity to help with furthering my education and my nursing career,” Korrine said.

Lifestyle and Wellbeing work appeals to Korrine as she enjoys making positive changes to the daily lives of each and every resident.

Candidates for the scholarships are chosen by the CEO and Director of Nursing on their commitment to Hall & Prior’s values, vision and their general

Korrine has more than nine years’ experience in nursing, working across community care, aged care and general nursing.

“I’ve witnessed some older people become socially withdrawn; so this role allows me to reach out, get to know their stories, connect with them on a personal level and make them smile,” Korrine said.

She added that the Grafton team are really like ‘one big family’.

“We take great pride in our work and believe that caring is about kindness and connection with the residents, helping to make their lives better every day,” she said.

“It’s such a blessing to work with such creative and inspiring staff members who help make this challenging and busy workplace run efficiently and positively. The town of Grafton along with its residential aged care is an amazing environment to live and work in.”

When she’s not at work, Corrine enjoys spending time with her “beautiful and wild” four-yearold daughter and built her own house at the age of 19.

Congratulations Korrine!

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PARTNERS IN EDUCATION New consultancy with Dementia Australia was announced in January.

Training

Staff are our greatest asset, and by investing in training and education we ensure that we continue to provide the best possible care.

Our residential aged care homes specialise in providing high-level care for individuals with complex needs and care requirements. Throughout our 24 homes, 84 per cent of care recipients are living with dementia; we need to understand them better so we can provide the best possible support.

In January we announced a new partnership with Dementia Training Australia (DTA), one of the sector’s peak training bodies.

Working with Staff Learning & Development Coordinator Felicia Lopez (pictured above right with Dementia Training Australia manager Katrina Fyfe) and Hall & Prior’s management team, a tailored training package was created by DTA for our staff.

To create the program, DTA conducted an organisation-wide training needs analysis, to ascertain which areas of study to prioritise, and to evaluate our employees existing knowledge base.

“We were impressed with the high response rate, with most people stating they wanted to learn more about caring for those with dementia,” Felicia said.

DTA Project Manager Katrina Fyfe said strengthening skills and knowledge is the key aim of the program.

“By asking staff what skills they would like to

develop, or areas they want to focus on in this training, we’re able to establish stakeholder engagement and co-production,” she said. The consultancy will focus on supporting care recipients with dementia who display responsive behaviours.

In addition to ground-level skill building, we will also work with staff in each home who choose to become leaders of certain approaches to responsive behaviours.

“We want to equip staff to support their colleagues who experience responsive behaviours,” Katrina said. “It’s about assisting care recipients to overcome responsive behaviours, not managing them.”

The layout and décor of a home can also significantly affect the lives of people with dementia, so DTA also carried out an Environmental Design Audit of our homes to see how we can improve our spaces.

The overarching aim of this program is to enable our staff to use best practice knowledge to support people living in our homes. Each individual’s experience with dementia is different, so it’s important our staff are able to draw on a wide range of techniques to support care recipients with responsive behaviours.

Education

EDUCATION UPDATE Start your 2019 the right way, by upskilling with a range of courses on offer from Hall & Prior’s Staff Learning and Development team. Here’s some February highlights for WA…

Accreditation Study Days

MAR

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This is a full day study session. This training has been tailored to; DONs, DDONs, CNMs, Registered Nurses and Allied Health professionals. Topics will cover the way forward with the new Standards and fostering a consumer centric approach.

Focus on: legislative changes, standards and requirements, quality and compliance, the audit – internal and external. Consumer experience report, clinical areas of pain management, wound care, medication use, infection control and antibiotic stewardship, unexpected weight loss, mandatory reporting and clinical documentation.

Core Training Maintenance and Landscaping Team

MAR

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Facilitated by: Learning & Development, Maintenance, Landscaping and OSH Coordinator.

Tailored to: Personal Carers, PCAPs, OTs, PTs, OTAs and Mayfair St staff.

Focus on: H&P values, diversity and inclusion: LGBTI + Meaningful Ageing, Person centred care, Quality, Safety and Compliance, Infection control, OSH and manual tasks, Fire and Evacuation procedures, Hazardous substances.

CPR

MAR

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Run by Surf Life Saving WA. This is a half-day session.

All RNs must attend the annual update.

Topics will cover: cardiopulmonary resuscitation and suction first aid.

Palliative Care Study Day

MAR

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Facilitated by Louise Appleton: Nurse Practitioner, resource team and external guest facilitatorsThis is a full day session tailored to Palliative Care Link Team members.

Focus on: Overview of palliative care, and its relevance to Hall & Prior policy, symptoms of palliative care for people living with dementia, Function of a Niki pump, nutrition and hydration at end of life, speech pathology in palliative care, overview of loss, grief, bereavement and spirituality in palliative care and bereavement related care.

Core Training - (Refresher)

MAR

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Tailored to: personal carers, PCAPS, OTs, PTs, OTA and Mayfair Street staff.

Focus on: HP overview: values, lifeworks, diversity: ATSI/LGBTI, Whole of person - the senses framework and why promoting person hood is important, quality, safety and compliance, infection control, clinical documentation, dementia training, nutrition and hydration.

CPR

FEB MAR

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Run by Surf Life Saving WA. This is a half-day session.

All RNs must attend the annual update.

Topics will cover: cardiopulmonary resuscitation and suction first aid.

For more information on any of these courses please speak directly to your relevant DON.

SPECIAL WOUND CARE WORKSHOP, NSW

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A special training workshop took place recently in NSW with a focus on ‘Wound Care’.

The training, which happened in early February offsite at The Alcott in Lane Cove, was facilitated by Dr Jennifer Prentice of Curtin University.

Dr Prentice is an Adjunct Research Fellow in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine at Curtin University.

She is known for her innovative approach and has a clinical background which encompasses more than 35 years’ experience in wound management. Much of that time has been spent in community and residential aged care settings and in acute care.

She works extensively with WoundsWest in WA and Wound Innovations to educate health

care professionals about chronic wound management and its overall cost to the healthcare system in Australia.

The training workshop was attended by RN’s, DON’s, DDon’s, Quality Education staff and State Office Clinical Management staff.

The focus was on skills development, wound prevention, wound education, assessment and healing.

Almost 30 staff attended the workshop and feedback from the day was excellent.

CNC Gillian Simpson and Dr Jennifer Prentice, RN.

Education

New Aged Care Quality Standards Are Coming Engage Empower

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We pride ourselves on being more than just compliant, going above and beyond national and industry standards and continually Standard 1

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If you have any questions about the new Human re ources s standards and what they mean for you, speak to your Director of Nursing, or go to https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/

Aged Care Quality StandardsStandard 2 Be ready for July 2019

Consumer Dignity and Choice

1800 951 822 Consumer Outcome: agedcarequality.gov.au 1.

We are pleased to share these changes with you, as well as how we are continuing to provide excellent care, based on bestpractice procedures and the needs of each individual.

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The new single set of standards will be for all Commonwealthfunded aged care providers.

Focusing on improved outcomes for consumers, the new standards promote consumer choice, and enable consumers to have an active role in the care they receive.

Safeguard improving the quality of the care we provide. Hall & Prior specialises in caring for those with high-level care needs and Servi complex co-morbidities, ces for d and many of whom are the aily sup liv po most vulnerable in our ing rt s communities.

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Ongoing assessm planning with co ent an nsu d me rs

Preparations are in full-swing for the upcoming changes to the national Aged Care Quality Standards. All of our homes are accredited by the Australian Aged re l ca Care Quality Agency, the na l care o rs ica industry’s governing body.

Pe clin d an As of January 2019, the transition period to the new standards has begun, and they will come into full effect in July 2019.

I am treated with dignity and respect, and can maintain my identity. I can make informed choices about my care and services, and live the life I choose.

Ongoing assessment and planning with consumers

Consumer Outcome: 1. I am a partner in ongoing assessment and planning that helps me get the care and services I need for my health and well-being.

Organisation Statement:

Organisation Statement:

2.

2. The organisation undertakes initial and ongoing assessment and planning for care and services in partnership with the consumer. Assessment and planning has a focus on optimising health and well-being in accordance with the consumer’s needs, goals and preferences.

The organisation: a) has culture of inclusion and respect for consumers; and b) supports consumers to excercise choice and independence; and c) respects consumers’ privacy.

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Standard 3

Standard 6

Personal care and clinical care

Feedback and complaints

Consumer Outcome:

Consumer Outcome:

1.

I get personal care, clinical care, or both personal care and clinical care, that is safe and right for me.

1.

Organisation Statement: 2.

The organisation delivers safe and effective personal care, clinical care, or both personal care and clinical care, in accordance with the consumer’s needs, goals and preferences to optimise health and well-being.

I feel safe and am encouraged and supported to give feedback and make complaints. I am engaged in the process to address my feedback and complaints, and appropriate action is taken.

Organisation Statement: 2.

The organisation regularly seeks input and feedback from consumers, carers, the workforce and others and uses the input and feedback to inform continuous improvements for the individual consumers and the whole organisation.

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Standard 4

Standard 7

Services and supports for daily living

Human Resources

Consumer Outcome:

Consumer Outcome:

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I get the services and supports for daily living that are important for my health and well-being and that enable me to do the things I want to do.

1.

texttttttttttStatement: Organisation 2. The organisation provides safe and effective services and supports for daily living that optimise the consumer’s independence, health, well-being and quality of life.

2.

1.

I get quality care and services when I need them from people who are knowledgeable, capable and caring.

Organisation Statement: The organisation has a workforce that is sufficient, and is skilled and qualified to provide safe, respectful and quality care and services.

Standard 5

Standard 8

Organisation’s services environment

Organisational governance

Consumer Outcome:

Consumer Outcome:

1.

1.

I feel I belong and I am safe and comfortable in the organisation’s service environment.

Organisation Statement: 2.

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The organisation provides a safe and comfortable service environment that promotes the consumer’s independence, function and enjoyment.

I am confident the organisation is well run. I can partner in improving the delivery of care and services.

Organisation Statement: 2.

The organisation’s governing body is accountable for the delivery of safe and quality care and services.

For more information on the New Quality Standards, go to agedcarequality.gov.au or speak to our Director of Nursing.

SPOTLIGHT ON…

MEDICATION AND LIFESTYLE COORDINATOR KATH WHISSON Not many aged care providers have an in-house pharmacist; but at Hall & Prior Kath Whisson is making a difference to the everyday lives of our clients.

For pharmacist Kath Whisson starting work for Hall & Prior was a watershed moment.

A qualified pharmacist since 1985, she was working with a large pharmacy servicing aged care when she made the switch to H&P seven years ago.

the day-to-day in a home you don’t get to stand back and look at the bigger picture sometimes and that’s part of my role. Sometimes medications have been administered for a certain length of time and the need no longer exists.

Kath is a strong advocate for medication management and works side by side with the internal teams at our homes to make sure that medications are being administered with the utmost care, correctly and with consideration to those living in our homes.

“In aged care there are pretty big pillars of care; medication management is one of them. I see my role as providing extra support to the homes.”

“It’s unique (in aged care) to have a pharmacist working within the group and I think quite forward thinking of Hall & Prior to have me on board,” Kath said.

“I work side by side with the Directors of Nursing or the Registered Nurses and PCAPs to really help them gain an overview of the medications they’re administering.

“When you’re busy doing

Kath visits all of our Perth homes regularly on a monthly roster and focusses on de-prescribing, checking pharmacy documentation, giving feedback to staff and reviewing procedures to see if she can streamline them.

Another part of Kath’s role is being part of the antibiotic stewardship program – and with the new Quality Standards coming in to play this year, it will be even more important.

“There’s a team of us within the business and one external

consultant that will be looking at the use of antibiotics at all of our homes,” Kath added.

“We’ll be developing policies and procedures around this to promote some change within the business. Our aim is to support optimal care and reduce the risk of increasing resistance to antibiotics.

“Overall the work we’re doing within the business is to encourage our staff to look at the administration of medications as less of a ‘task’ and as more of health awareness approach.

“So asking themselves how long has this client been on this medication and does the need still exist? It’s about being a bit more proactive.

“We’re working together for a common outcome and education is a huge factor in that process.”

If you would like to learn more please contact Kath via email at kwhisson@hallprior.com.au

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IN OUR HOMES…

LEIGHTON CAROLLERS SPREAD GOOD CHEER Hamersley Aged care Home received a special visit from Leighton’s resident choir over the festive season to sing Christmas carols and spread good holiday cheer.

A large crowd of residents gathered at the home to listen to classics such as ‘Silent Night’, ‘Away in a Manger’ and a special Aussie rendition of ‘Jingle Bells’ - to help remind them of special times with loved ones and family.

Resident’s families were also welcomed to enjoy the show which lasted for approximately 45 minutes and had everyone singing along to the classic Christmas tunes.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS AT CONCORDE The Cai Hong (Rainbow) Chinese Dance group celebrated Chinese New Year and 2019 being the Year of the Pig at Concorde Aged Care Home in February spreading joy and good cheer.

The colourful dancers, who were dressed in traditional red Chinese costumes, interacted with the residents while dancing with fans, encouraging residents to get involved if they could.

There was also a martial arts display from Michael Ho of Chorus.

“We are here to spread the joy of Chinese New Year around the home,” Michael said.

“The Year of the Pig is great for good fortune and prosperity and as red is the Chinese symbol of happiness, we are also spreading luck and happiness around Concorde today.

“We wish everyone a bright and beautiful 2019.”

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS Bad weather couldn’t stop the Australia Day celebrations at Hall & Prior’s homes in the last week of January.

In the spirit of all things ‘Aussie’ barbecues went on regardless of the intermittent rain at Windsor Park, Belmont, Concorde and Kensington Park.

Staff cooked up traditional Australian beef burgers for the residents to enjoy for lunch, which they then ate together in the homes communal dining areas.

Belmont residents Anita and Charles Lemos said both the day and the burgers were a welcome treat.

“It’s good to celebrate our country,” Charles said.

Residents then spent the afternoon watching the Australian Open on television.

It doesn’t get more Aussie than that!

Residents Charles and Anita Lemos with carer Michelle Harding.

ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST NOW OPEN If you’re a happy snapper in your spare time you might be interested to know that the Annual Gurwin Photo Contest which takes place in New York City is now open.

Last year a small group from Hall & Prior spent time at the Gurwin Centre on a study tour to gain insights into the award winning Jewish aged care home; known for its innovative approach to care, rehabilitation, culture and the arts.

The photo contest is open to all amateur photographers – with the winner’s photos exhibited throughout the Centre.

Winning photos will be enlarged and framed for permanent display at Gurwin to be enjoyed by those who live and work in the 460bed nursing and rehabilitation centre. A panel of professional photographers serve as judges, choosing prizes and honorable mentions in all 12 categories.

Categories for the competition include; action and sports, children, landscapes, nature, people, pets, still life, travel and wildlife. Cash prizes are awarded for the top selections.

Photographers my submit up to seven printed colour or black and white 8x10 or 8x12 photographs for a fee of US$5 per entry.

Entry forms are available to download at www.gurwin.org/ about/photo-contest.

Deadline for submissions is April 15, 2019.

ROYAL COMMISSION UPDATE JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 Hall & Prior welcomes the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, believing that the Commission will lead to long-term, sustainable improvements for the aged care sector.

On 7 January 2019, Hall & Prior submitted our first response to the Royal Commission. It provided a summary of clinical incidents and how we have made investments into systems improvements, both in the past and what is planned for the future. This detailed submission contained more than 1,000 pages of information on behalf of our 24 Aged Care Homes and two home care services.

If you would like any information regarding the Royal Commission or Hall & Prior’s submission, please email royalcommissionenquiries@hallprior.com.au

Watch this space‌ Karingal Green, the world class aged-care precinct bought to you by Hall & Prior is starting to take shape in the Perth Hills region.

Designed by award-winning international architects Hassell Studio and built by Broad Construction Karingal Green will provide West Australians with a multitude of residential options, specialist services and will be a hub for in-home community aged care services.

www.karingalgreen.com.au

The building’s foundations have now been laid and brick work on the ground floor is advancing.

The project is on track for practical completion by December 2019.

We look forward to bringing you more updates on this exciting project.

hallprior.com.au