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THE ‘LIVELY VOICE’ OF JUNIPER
SUMMER 2016-17
Christmas at Juniper Rowethorpe
Healing Power of Humans P6
Workplace award win! P 21
Lions roar into Carramar P 24
Simulation trials success P 22
Viva Vocé is the “lively voice” of Juniper Inside you will find news from around Juniper, as we celebrate a good life for all our people!
About Juniper
Vision A good life for all our people.
Mission To enhance the independence, spiritual fulfilment and enjoyment of life of older people through care, accommodation and support services.
Values Juniper embraces core values to direct and guide our actions, and reflect the Uniting Church ethos. Welcome is being warm, friendly, gracious, empathetic to all, and open to new ideas. Respect is valuing people for their uniqueness and being just and honest in our dealings. Compassion is caring for others and responding to need using the highest standards to provide comfort and enable healing. Hope is looking forward with confidence and expectation.
Contact details Juniper Central, 313 Main Street, Balcatta WA 6021 PO Box 810, Balcatta WA 6914 t: 9240 0313 f: 9240 0329 e: juniper@juniper.org.au w: www.juniper.org.au
If you wish to join our mailing list, please email us at: vivavoce@juniper.org.au. We respect your privacy. If you would prefer to not receive further material from Juniper, please call or email vivavoce@juniper.org.au. 2
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Juniper is a Christian, values driven, community benefit organisation that excels in social enterprise for the benefit of the whole Western Australian community. Our antecedents first welcomed residents 1949 and we have now grown to more than 1,600 staff and 500 volunteers who work to enhance the lives of more than 4,000 Western Australians.
Have something to share? If you have a story idea or want to share your news, email vivavoce@juniper.org.au or write to: Viva Vocé, Juniper, PO Box 810, Balcatta WA 6914. Submissions may be edited for space or clarity and photographs submitted by email only may be reproduced. For more information, email vivavoce@juniper.org.au.
School Holidays Term 4 Break Thursday 15 December - Wednesday 1 February
Public Holidays Christmas Day Sunday 25 December (Monday 26 December) Boxing Day Monday 26 December (Tuesday 27 December) New Year’s Day Sunday 1 January (Monday 2 January) Australia Day Thursday 26 January FRONT COVER Juniper Rowethorpe residents Dawn Cant, Shirley Dereksen, Judie Robertson, Howard and Jenny Nock.
Vaughan’s message We are in the home straight for another year and well advanced planning for next year. The sheer pace of life and accompanying change seems to be getting faster. So before we get too far ahead of ourselves I would like to reflect on some of the highlights that occurred during 2016. Juniper has stepped up its answer to its strategic intent to double its capacity to respond to the needs of the community over a 10 year period. It has more projects on the move than in any previous period with major activity occurring from Kununurra in the far north to Albany in the far south. This is important work when one considers the needs of an ageing society. I am also particularly pleased that we have cemented our position at the highest level as a high performing employer with regards to the health and safety of our staff. This was again demonstrated by being recognised with a second platinum award by Worksafe
and also taking out the Best Workplace Safety and Health Management System for 2016. Finding the best way to recognise our staff who provide the 24/7 services in people’s own homes and in our many centres has also been a challenge. After significant trial and error we have finally bedded down a reward and recognition system that treats our staff equitably and recognises high performing people and high performing sites. There has also been real progress in settling our Kimberley services as our own knowledge of the needs of the various remote communities improves and Juniper’s generic policy and procedure framework is altered to meet local needs. This work is ongoing but I am very pleased with the advances that have been made including Juniper’s acceptance into these small communities. During 2016 our Pastoral and Spiritual Care Team has also continued to grow and develop. In addition to an expanded number
of Pastoral Co-ordinators we now have 30 trained pastoral volunteers and our reach and capacity to be alongside people, often at a most challenging stage of life, has been significantly enhanced. There are many other highlights for the year and some of these are picked up in this Summer Edition. We are now in the season of Advent on the Western Christian calendar. It is the time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The birth of Christ brought great joy to the world when it occurred so long ago and I hope that this Christmas brings great joy to you and your family.
Chief Executive
Cygnet Memory Walk A sunny day greeted us for Juniper Cygnet’s second annual Memory Walk.
Family and friends joined staff and residents from Juniper Cygnet and Hakea to boost dementia awareness and gold coin donations raised more than $270 for a good cause.
A big thanks goes to teams at both sites, in particular, the therapy girls and Care Coordinator Tracy Baroy for organising the day!
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Bring & Buy for Dementia Awareness September was Dementia Awareness Month and Juniper Community’s Dementia Champions held a Bring and Buy sale on the 21st to raise awareness and funds for our clients living with dementia. The Dementia Champions program trains staff to become specialists in dementia care, through ongoing training, mentoring and networking opportunities. Everyone in the Juniper Community office generously contributed their unwanted items to the sale; board games, clothing and baked goods were all up for grabs. Over five hundred dollars was raised and the funds will go towards the creation of a Dementia Sensory Library which will allow clients to trial multi-sensory activities and items for a Cognitive Therapy Program.
A tip-toe through the tulips Our Juniper Community clients were on the road again in October and this time their destination was Araluen Botanic Park where they enjoyed a breathtaking tulip display. Often described as “Heaven in the Hills” Araluen is at its most spectacular during spring when the tulips and other spring blooms are flourishing. The group was delighted to see the 125,000 tulips on display and rested over a cuppa at Mason Mill Gardens before returning to Araluen to enjoy the spectacular floral displays.
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Award winner brings laughter and love to seniors Juniper has congratulated Western Australia’s outstanding senior for her work to improve the lives and wellbeing of older people throughout the community. Presenting the Juniper 2016 WA Seniors Champion Award to Jenny Davis, Juniper Chief Executive Vaughan Harding said the 67-year-old actor, writer and producer continued to make a significant contribution through Agelink Theatre, a production company she founded nearly 25 years ago. “Thousands of selfless people give back to the community in many ways and Jenny is a prime example of an individual who is brightening the lives of people across the State,” Mr Harding said. “Agelink’s aim to honour and affirm the value of older people, through their lives and stories
reflects Juniper’s values as we strive to provide a good life for all our people.
Ageing WA and the Department of Local Government and Communities.
The Juniper 2016 WA Seniors Champion Award is the premier honour of this year’s WA Seniors Awards that acknowledge the rich and rewarding service of our seniors and hosted on the 6th November by the Council on the
Mr Harding presented the prestigious Juniper award with Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC Governor of Western Australia and Patron of COTA WA.
BUSSELTON SOCIAL GROUP Juniper Community in Busselton is currently running bus outings for the local senior community. This HACC funded program has a focus on fun, friendship and wellbeing. The participants currently meet every second Friday for a variety of activities that include visits to venues such as the Margaret River Silk Farm, Goanna Gallery in Dunsborough, Cape Lavender Tea House in Yallingup and the Cowaramup town site. Program facilitator Carol Bibby, with the help of volunteer bus drivers Rowan and Lynn, provides a supportive, safe environment for participants to be able to develop meaningful long lasting friendships through regular contact with each other. Through careful planning Carol caters for participants with a variety of needs with a focus on both independence and support within the group. A combination of local and surrounding venues are visited and new members are always encouraged and made to feel very welcome.
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Laughter brings health benefits A number of Therapy Assistants across Juniper recently enjoyed a Laughter Boss workshop run by the Humour Foundation – an Australian charity dedicated to promoting and delivering the health benefits of humour. The Laughter Boss workshop coaches aged care workers to incorporate the healing power of humour into their everyday work. As stated on the Laughter Boss website: “The healing power of humour is well known – sharing a smile and a laugh connects people, lowers stress, reduces anxiety, relieves tension, boosts the immune system and creates an atmosphere of positivity and warmth.” Juniper Pilgrim Therapy Assistant Esperanza Gutierrez thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “The Humour Foundation understands the challenges faced by staff in aged care. Our Laughter Boss training showed us how to use play to promote humour in daily work. Not only does this foster wellbeing and develop better relationships between residents and staff
but also between staff and their colleagues,” she said. “We are looking forward to incorporating Laughter Boss activities into our therapy program for residents.” Juniper Training Consultant Natalie Caruana said numerous staff members have attended Laughter Boss workshops in recent months.
“Our Therapy Assistants are taking their training and adapting it to the needs of residents at their facilities. For example, Juniper Hilltop residents enjoyed a Laughter Yoga sessions in August as part of a Therapy Assistant Development Day,” she said. “It’s a great initiative that’s achieving fantastic results.”
Recognition for a valued volunteer Juniper Volunteer Barbara (Joyce) Ashworth was delighted to attend the WA Volunteer Service Awards in September – an event that recognises people who have given 25 or more and 50 or more years of volunteer service to one organisation. When she is not working at Juniper Elimatta as a Multi-skilled Carer, Barbara also volunteers her time at the Menora facility. “Barbara has been volunteering with our organisation since 1973 and truly deserves the recognition she received at the WA Volunteer Service Awards,” said Juniper Volunteer Coordinator Tim Law. More than 50 people were acknowledged at the awards held at the Constitutional Centre and Barbara was joined by her 11-year-old granddaughter, Jorja on the day. “I just love volunteering because people really appreciate it. It’s the little things to us that mean so much to them,” Barbara said.
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A homecoming to warm the heart Former Juniper Annesley resident, Peter Sheavyn has returned home to continue life with his family, following his amazing progress and response to the therapy and care he received at the Bentley facility. Peter, who was admitted to Juniper Annesley over a year ago after suffering a stroke at age 74, is delighted to be reunited with his wife Helen in their Thornlie home where he will receive ongoing support from the Juniper Community home care team. David Keefe was a Senior Therapy Assistant when Peter first arrived at Annesley and also Lead Mentor for the facility’s Interprofessional Practice Program (IPP), which facilitates practical clinical experience for Curtin University health science students.
“Upon arrival Peter needed a full hoist and was unable to stand longer than 30 seconds, while holding onto a rail. However he was extremely goal-oriented from the start,” said David. “He received intensive physiotherapy including mobility exercises and through this work he was able to walk with a pulpit frame and then eventually a regular four-wheel frame. “This is where the students in our IPP program really make a difference. They were able to spend a lot of time with Peter and build up his tolerances.” While Peter’s sheer determination and goal setting played a big role in his success he believes it would not have been possible without the quality care and therapy he received at Juniper Annesley.
“I knew I had to set goals for myself if I was going to achieve anything and as I started to get stronger, I vowed I could do even better. “When I found out I could go home, it was the most wonderful news I’ve ever had in my life.” By chance David now works in Juniper’s home care division, Juniper Community, and coordinates Peter’s ongoing home care, rehabilitation and support. “Peter is such an amazing, determined man who has accomplished so much in his life and his wife Helen is also incredibly supportive,” David said. “It warms the heart to see him go home. He’s come so far and that’s what touches me – the human spirit.”
“I’m here today because of them. They were absolutely fabulous – all the staff and the students were just brilliant,” said Peter.
“I knew I had to set goals for myself if I was going to achieve anything and as I started to get stronger, I vowed I could do even better.”
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Farewell Pauline Crosby Juniper Central, Residential and Community staff recently bade a fond farewell to one of our longestserving staff members, Pauline Crosby, with a celebratory afternoon tea. Pauline joined us back in May 1977 as a bookkeeper for the then Central Methodist Mission Homes in the Rowethorpe site. During her 30-plus years Pauline took on a range of financial roles and saw a remarkable transformation from manual to fully computerised systems. From 1992 she was based at the Claudia Hicks Hostel before moving to the State Office, working at its two locations, latterly at Balcatta. Pauline’s financial knowledge and skills helped guide vital systems as well as playing a key support role in the implementation of the Juniper Access team. As she thanked her friends and work colleagues, Pauline noted that she has had the privilege of working with many amazing people over the years. We’ll miss you Pauline, enjoy your well-deserved retirement!
Sock and soul at St David’s Inspiration has created a fruitful partnership at Juniper St David’s in Mount Lawley. Thinking of ways to assist homeless people in Perth, staff at St David’s decided a great idea would be to collect blankets and socks. Staff created and promoted the project dubbed “Body and Sole” and Pastoral Care Coordinator Sue Talbert made contact with UnitingCare West, who were happy to accept donations. Residential Manager Helen Abbott said residents, staff and visitors were extremely generous with their donations and were pleased to hand over a large number of blankets and socks. “One resident was very interested to know where the socks were going and remembered knitting socks for the soldiers when she was younger,” Helen said. Daniel Viljoen, Mission Development Leader with UnitingCare West said the organisation was grateful for the donations. “Thank you so much for the donation of blankets and socks, be assured that your donation is valued and that it will make a huge difference in the lives of homeless people,” he said.
Louise Tremble, Pauline and Kerry Green the Juniper Access team at Central.
For more information about donating, contact UnitingCare West on 1300 663 298 or visit unitingcarewest.org.au.
Goodbye to our colleagues We bade a fond farewell to staff who recently departed Juniper Central. We thank all these lovely people for their efforts during their time with us and wish them all the very best for the future: Accounts Payable Officer Christine Bradley, Contracts Coordinator Peter Leahy, ICT Support Officer Paul Totten and Executive Support Officer Margaret Glenn who departed Juniper Central.
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Julie Purves left us after several years in the finance department, culminating in her role as Finance Manager. She has taken up a new role and has moved to Tasmania. Their combined service represents many years of experience and skill and they will be missed by their colleagues.
Health Hut opens for Have a Go Day Juniper and the Council for the Ageing joined forces on November 9th for Have a Go Day, opening a “Health Hut” at the popular annual event where people could receive health checks from our qualified Community Outreach team, listen to informative health and wellbeing presentations and take away useful resources and giveaways.
The day was a huge success with hundreds of people stopping at the Health Hut and many getting their body mass index measured and blood pressure checked by Juniper’s Dietician Caitlin Parker and Community Nurse Janet Anderson. “By measuring these variables, you can monitor your overall health and assess your risk of
developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and even things such as dementia,” said Caitlin. Have a Go Day takes place each year during Seniors Week in November, at Burswood Park and includes a wide range of exhibitors and fun activities targeting people over 45.
Pedal Power October 12th was Ride to Work Day when we are all encouraged to swap our car keys for pedal power and enjoy a healthy bicycle ride to work. Juniper Community’s Deborah Titan and Ilza Muller were joined by 73-year-old client, Michel Sinclair as they embarked on their 20km ride from Cockburn to Juniper Rowethorpe. “We loved the freshness of the early morning, the energy of the other riders and the freedom of being outdoors,” said Deborah. “We enjoyed it so much, we have planned to do it again before it becomes too hot.” VIVA VOCÉ
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Pastoral Care Reflection
THIS YEAR SPRING WAS GLORIOUS and one fine Sunday afternoon I caught the bus to King’s Park to meet a friend to admire the colourful and extravagant wildflower display. It was a wonderful experience to wander around the State through the wildflowers of all regions. Stimulating conversation with my friend and a cup of tea at the café aptly concluded our rich exploration. On the way home, gazing out the bus window, I saw a small green plant with a red flower growing between the pavers of the footpath. At a distance I didn’t quite believe what I saw, but as we travelled closer it was clear that this was a genuine experience of survival. The plant was about 25cm high and looked rather healthy as it proudly took its place in what seemed a foreign environment unable to support such life. There were no other flowers within about 20m but here it was, defying the odds, an unlikely guest in a harsh and unfriendly environment.
forward in expectation to the celebration of Jesus’ birth on Christmas Day. At the time that he was born, a few people were witnesses to the fact and also some animals. Mary and Joseph had arrived in Bethlehem after what was probably a difficult journey for the very pregnant Mary. A stable was the birthing room and animals were unlikely guests. Shepherds arrived after being startled by Angels who had appeared to tell them the news. Wise men from foreign countries had journeyed a distance following a star and appeared with expensive gifts. It had been foretold for centuries though Jesus’ birth seems an unlikely story of ordinary people chosen to do unlikely things. A bit like the plant I had seen growing amongst the pavers, the birth of Jesus defies the odds and life comes as an unlikely guest into a harsh environment. And keeps coming every year. Adrienne Inch Team Leader, Pastoral and Spiritual Care
We have begun the period of Advent in the Christian Church calendar – a time to look
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? If you’re having trouble finding the right gift for the person who has everything, why not take a different approach this year? You can support people in Africa, Asia and the Pacific by purchasing gifts that will go towards projects providing much needed assistance to their local communities. In return you will receive a card for your loved one, explaining about how their Christmas gift has made a difference to those in need. You can purchase school books for a child in Fiji, leadership development for a woman in the Pacific, chickens to start a brood in Zimbabwe or support for a family experiencing natural disaster – to name a few examples. Take a look at the Uniting World gift catalogue at https://www.everythingincommon.com.au. If you want to know more about Uniting World and its work, contact Elaine Ledgerwood, Juniper Pastoral Care Coordinator and member of the local and national Uniting World Committees. 10
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A significant first for our Derby sites Our staff in Derby have received a hearty congratulations for achieving accreditation in November - the sites’ first as part of the Juniper Team. Executive Manager Residential Raelene Siford thanked staff and management of Juniper Numbala Nunga and Juniper Ngamang Bawoona and said the assessors were extremely thorough. “They interviewed many residents and relatives and were extremely complimentary on clinical care provided, in fact they went as far as to say it is the best they have seen,” she said. Chief Executive Vaughan Harding offered his congratulations, noting that staff demonstrated excellence in care and services provided to the local community. “You should all be justly proud of the feedback you have received from Assessors who visit many, many different sites and have good reference points for comparison, well done Derby team!” he said.
Meet Lui the Gardener St Andrew’s resident Lui di Cinque loves gardening and has played a big role in the set up and operation of the vegetable gardens at St Andrew’s and Juniper Gardens. Some of Lui’s hand-picked vegetables were recently put on display at the facility when Pastoral Care Coordinator Adele Robinson held a service to celebrate the Harvest Festival.
The assessors also noted the way care and clinical information was made available and shared at the sites and the whole team was lauded for their activity programs and welcoming workplace culture. In July 2014 both sites came under Juniper’s wing and continue to provide vital care and services to the community.
It’s Show Time! Once again our Juniper Community Northam team rolled up to the annual Northam Show to showcase our range of home care services available in the region. Client Care Advisor/ Enrolled Nurse Cheryl Reed and Community Support Workers Michelle Gilmour, Sue Smith, Fiona Mead, Charissa Robbins and Susan O’Neill manned the Juniper display at Northam’s major community event of the year. “The Northam Show is one of WA’s most popular country shows so it’s always a great opportunity to promote our range of services to the local community,” said Operations Manager, Leeanne Thomas.
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ward Employee A e tl Elle Bu r
ACSWA Employee Award Joan Stevenson
Supervisor/Manager Award Glenda Kirkman
ward Innovation A dith re e Natasha M
Val Wills accepts the Team Award on behalf of Hakea Staff and Management
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Welcome to Juniper A warm welcome to all the new staff members who have joined Juniper in recent months in a wide variety of roles. We’d like to introduce a couple of new recruits who are also key contacts for you within the Juniper team.
Jason Cleary Juniper Gardens Coordinator A warm welcome to Jason Cleary who joins our Juniper Community team as the new Juniper Gardens Coordinator. Jason coordinates the use and upkeep of the beautiful Juniper Gardens located in Balcatta. Working in horticulture since a young age, Jason has also project managed a number of other community gardens and actively volunteers for numerous charities. He is excited about managing and developing a space like Juniper Gardens. “A garden like this with its range of vegetables, fruit, natives and other plants not to mention the entertainment facilities, is so important for residents and staff,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the summer harvest and we may be incorporating some new space into the garden which will be exciting.” Apart from the garden itself, Jason has most enjoyed the warm welcome he has received at Juniper. “It’s a privilege to be working here and I look forward to seeing our residents, clients and staff come through the space,” he said.
Glyn Butler General Manager, Housing A warm welcome to Glyn Butler, Juniper’s new General Manager Housing. Glyn will be overseeing and supporting all ILU Coordinators across the State while promoting the services available to residents and ultimately enhancing the experience of living within a Juniper retirement community. Glyn comes to us with a wealth of experience, having worked in similar roles in the aged care sector for over 15 years. “The welcome has been exceptional and really echoes what Juniper stands for,” said Glyn. “I am excited about getting into the role and meeting everyone and I am certainly looking forward to the exciting times ahead.” A passionate West Coast Eagles supporter, you may see Glyn wearing his favourite Eagles tie to work! 16
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Congratulations Chris Congratulations to Chris Oldfield who has been officially appointed Executive Manager, Community, overseeing the strategic direction of Juniper’s home care and support service delivered by over 200 care, management and administration staff. Chris joined Juniper in 2012, advancing to the position of General Manager, Community before taking on the role of Acting Executive Manager, Community. The Juniper Community team work throughout one of the largest service areas in Australia and Chris has been instrumental in helping guide and deliver Juniper’s response to Consumer Directed Care (CDC) ensuring our more than 1,800 home and community care clients can enjoy a good life. “I am very excited to officially take on this role and consider it a privilege to lead our enthusiastic, professional and dedicated home care team,” said Chris. Juniper Chief Executive Vaughan Harding said Chris’ unique mix of skills as a trained health professional, advanced management qualifications and significant community experience makes her well placed to lead the Juniper Community team. “I am sure everyone at Juniper will join with me to congratulate Chris on her appointment and support her in this important position,” he said.
Multicultural Celebrations The City of Bayswater Hostel was bursting with colour on the 18th of October when staff and residents enjoyed a very special Multicultural Day. Wearing traditional national costumes, staff brought in delicious foods from their country of origin for everyone to enjoy. A variety of flags, emblems, mascots and traditional dress decorated the activity room where everyone gathered for a beautiful lunch. Residents, friends and families were treated to traditional song and dance performances by staff members before enjoying an internationally themed high tea.
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Maxine’s talent shines bright at art exhibition Juniper Hillcrest resident Maxine Howlett was very excited to hold her first art exhibition, “A Walk Down Memory Lane” at the Arts and Cultural Development Commission (ACDC) Gallery in Geraldton. The exhibition was held from the 20th of October to the 6th of November and showcased 25 of Maxine’s beautiful art pieces. Juniper’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Lee-anne Robb was instrumental in organising the exhibition which was officially opened by Residential Manager Beth Thompson with Maxine’s brother, Malcolm. “The opening night was a great success with about 50 people attending,” said Lee-anne. Maxine has donated a piece of art to the ACDC’s outdoor gallery and has sold two pieces from the exhibition so far.
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Maxine has had a passion for painting since the 1970s when she would capture stunning landscapes during camping trips with family and friends.
work then and now is simply a gift.”
Maxine’s daughter Meagan said her mother was always humble about her natural artistic talents and never believed her work was good enough to be displayed.
After suffering a stroke in 2011, Maxine continued her love of painting, mastering her craft with her steady left hand. She spends most of her day in her corner studio at Juniper Hillcrest continuing to create inspirational works of art.
“Her paintings are that well done that when you look long enough you could feel the cold spring waters and hear the pandanus trees rustling,” she said.
“She is a truly gifted individual that still to this day, underestimates just how special and talented she really is,” said Meagan.
“Truly majestic work from someone who never went to art classes or was coached – this
Maxine has donated a piece of art to the ACDC’s outdoor gallery
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A special celebration for Corrie Juniper Elimatta resident Corrie Toneman was delighted to celebrate her 100th birthday surrounded by fellow residents, staff and her family members – some flying in from different parts of the country to be with her on her special day. Adding to the celebration was a visit from the new Minister for Seniors, The Hon. Paul Miles MLA, who presented Corrie with the very first WA Seniors Card centenarian pin. The commemorative pin will now be presented to all WA Seniors Card holders who turn 100, recognising their contributions to the community over their lifetime. Born in the Netherlands, Corrie migrated to Australia in 1953 with her family, travelling from Rotterdam to Perth via a six-week boat journey. Area Manager Coastal Alison Dores said Corrie is a much loved member of the Juniper Elimatta family. “She is known for her knitting and crocheting talents and to this day she still donates her creations to local charities - she is truly an inspiration to us all,” she said. “We are delighted to celebrate her 100th birthday with her. It’s wonderful to see her surrounded by her family and friends on this important day and on behalf of Juniper I congratulate Corrie on this wonderful achievement.”
Farewell and thanks, Bridget Juniper St Andrew’s farewelled long serving MSC Bridget Cairns on Wednesday 26 October. Bridget cared for our residents for more than nine years and was a dedicated, valued and professional team member who will be sadly missed by residents, their families and staff. We wish Bridget a happy and fulfilling retirement!
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Recognition for workplace excellence Our commitment to continuous improvement has helped secure Western Australia’s premier award for occupational health and safety in the workplace. Receiving Worksafe WA’s award for Best Workplace Safety and Health Management System, Chief Executive Vaughan Harding said a strong culture of safety backed by comprehensive training and management systems ensured employees are equipped to do their jobs safely. Since 2010 our workforce has increased by 20 per cent to more than 1,600 employees, and significantly, workers compensation claims and serious injury reports had steadily decreased each year.
“Juniper fully understands the challenges associated with an ageing workforce and has initiated a range of strategies that have made a positive impact on the reduction in injuries across the organisation,” Mr Harding said.
occupational safety and health management, solutions and innovation in workplaces and were presented at the UWA Club in October.
“Consultation has been key to our success - we have involved our people at all levels to successfully manage hazards and risks and I thank all our Health and Safety Representatives.” Manager Health and Safety Glenda McMurtrie said Juniper’s continuous focus of improving awareness and building a robust safety culture has been incorporated into roles, responsibilities and accountabilities at all levels and good planning has been an essential component to success. The Department of Commerce’s 2016 Work Safety Awards WA recognise outstanding
Manager Health and Safety Glenda McMurtrie with the winner’s trophy
Great Southern land project starts A vision to create a vibrant new space with benefits for the community is taking shape in Albany. Developed in partnership with UnitingCare West, a multipurpose building is under construction in Lockyer to deliver a much needed hub for both organisations, service agencies and community groups. We recently hosted VIPs onsite to view the project and Chief Executive Vaughan Harding said it was exciting to see its progress to date. “The provision of high quality facilities and services will meet unmet, current and future needs of the region’s ageing population,” he said. Construction of the multipurpose building commenced in August and it is expected the facility will be completed by mid-2017. Checking out the plans: Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Hon Ken Wyatt MP, Chief Executive Vaughan Harding and Federal Member for O’Connor Hon Rick Wilson MP.
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Dementia Simulation Workshop trial a success In an effort to improve Community Support Workers’ (CSWs) understanding of the needs of clients living with dementia, a Dementia Simulation Workshop is being rolled out by the team at Juniper Community. Developed by a dementia working group comprising Clinical Trainer Theresa Chong, Community Support & Training Coordinator Eileen Newland, Business Support Team Leader, Lauren Proctor and Clinical Team Leader Rachel Gurden, the workshop is conducted within Juniper’s Simulation Centre in Bentley. A blend of theory, group discussion, practical tasks and group reflection, the workshop allows participants to experience the challenges that many of our dementia and elderly clients
face when undertaking everyday activities. The practical component of the workshop was trialled for the first time in September with staff members slipping on visual impairment goggles, gloves, weights and earphones (among other things) before attempting everyday tasks like hanging out laundry. Manager Community, Michelle Green took part in the trial and said the Simulation Workshop was extremely effective and informative.
“Trying to complete the tasks was tiring and frustrating. Having to rely on others to assist you in everyday tasks left you with a feeling of hopelessness,” she said. “All staff with dementia clients should experience the training as it would truly help them understand the challenges of living with dementia.” During October and November, 75 CSWs will complete the Dementia Simulation Workshop with the rest taking part early next year.
Happy Days wows the crowd We enjoyed a concert starring the “Happy Days” duo Shelley Richardson and Marilyn Dyer. Thanks to funding and support from the Social Club Juniper St David’s residents had a fun time featuring golden oldies, country and western, songs from the movie “Grease” and some comedic turns – who remembers Joe Dolce’s “Shaddap You Face”? The audience interacted with the performers, happily singing and dancing. It was all good fun!
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Juniper Trinity’s artistic talent on display
Our talented artists in residence from Juniper Trinity were invited to display some of their work at an art exhibition called the Artisans of Joy, held by the Armadale Kelmscott Art Society in August. Juniper’s section of the exhibition, which was held at the Stargate Shopping Centre in Kelmscott, was called Art Therapy at Trinity. Therapy Assistant Joanne Hearle said while the facility had held a number of internal exhibitions,
this was their first external event and the residents were delighted to see their work on display during their visit. “One of our residents was so moved by the artwork on display that she cried tears of joy,” said Joanne. “When another resident admired a particular painting and expressed interest in replicating it, the artist generously donated the painting to our facility. It really was a wonderful experience for everyone.”
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Lions roar into Carramar Resident Doreen Ambler has been very busy lately, knitting up a storm for women in need. Her efforts have transformed kind donations of wool from the Morley Lions Club into blankets for the Women’s Refuge and St Bartholomew’s. Doreen is pictured here with club treasurer Harvey and Betty Male. Thanks to the club and all who have given their time to support this worthy cause. If you wish to assist, contact Morley Lions Club on morleylions@outlook.com
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$100
or my choice
$
Pay by Credit Card ......................................................................... Exp.................... Signature..................................................................................................................... or Direct Deposit to: Juniper, BSB 036 037, ACC 137857 (Uniting Church Homes)
Gifts over $2 are tax deductible, a receipt will be sent to you shortly.
Juniper 313 Main Street, Balcatta WA 6021 PO Box 810, Balcatta WA 6914 Telephone: (08) 9240 0313 Facsimile: (08) 9240 0329 Email: juniper@juniper.org.au Website: www.juniper.org.au
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