Promoting dignity, independence and choice

For people sleeping rough, assertive outreach is often the best way to get assistance. Many people do not have access to phones or transport and planning for office based appointments can be impractical.

This year our Rough Sleeper Assertive Outreach Program supported over 244 people, providing a wide variety of support that is holistic, humancentred and trauma informed. This included:

― Crisis intervention ― Mobile outreach to connect people with community and a familiar face to talk to ― Referrals ― Emergency accommodation for respite ― Case management, advocacy and housing support ― Material aid to improve daily living and promote dignity.

Working alongside partners Madcow and Bendigo Health, the team set up a vaccination clinic to support access to COVID-19 vaccinations. This year the clinic evolved to provide access to other vaccinations, promoting positive relationships with health service providers and emphasising the importance of health care. Through consistent provision of support over a long period of time, the RSAP team have built trusting relationships with many clients and been able to engage them in case plans, goal setting and positive case management.

“We advocate to have every voice heard, every person to be seen and to ensure every person feels valued.”

~ Jodi,

RSAP team member.