Calvary Matters December, 2016
Seasons Greetings!
In this issue:
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Champions of Gender Equality
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Remembering our Mission: Mary Potter Day around the country
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Client care in extreme heat
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Festive Cheer at Calvary Christmas Parties
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Are you up-to-date? This month we look at Police Check compliance
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Pause For Applause – The CEO Award winner, Annual Award winners and October winners and nominees
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Learning & Development news
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Service Award recipients
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Spirit of Christmas
Best wishes to you and your family for a happy, healthy and safe festive season and 2017.
We did it again! Employer of choice for gender equality
Mark Doran, Calvary’s National Chief Executive Officer is “very proud of our focus on developing leadership capability in our organisation and in turn the health sector.”
He continues, “We have 73% of our leadership positions currently occupied by women, of which 30% are over 55 and 25% have over 15 years of service. Our challenge is to retain and transfer knowledge and skill whilst we attract and develop up the next generation of leaders in health care.”
Calvary recognise that the health care needs of the communities we serve are complex and varied and requires our organisation to be agile and flexible in our delivery which must be reflected in our workplace arrangements. This in turn offers staff the ability to balance work and home commitments. In addition to progress Calvary made in previous years around equitable pay scales and paid parental and paternity leave, Calvary are also mindful of the social issues impacting our workforce and have addressed issues such as:
- Domestic Violence – a minimum of 10 days leave is now available for domestic violence victims
- Well-being at work – programs promoting mental and physical wellbeing
- Wealth creation for women – by partnering with key suppliers Calvary can give easy access for staff to advice on financial management, insurances and superannuation
- Access to staff benefits for casual workforce – Calvary has released staff benefits that extend to casual and permanent staff alike.
- Leadership Capability frameworks – Calvary is developing programs to develop the leaders of today and tomorrow
Calvary underwent an extensive audit process to achieve this 2016 Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (EOCGE) citation. WGEA Director Libby Lyons said: “WGEA data shows there is progress towards gender equality in Australian workplaces, but it is too slow. It is only through more employers adopting leading practices to promote gender equality in the workplace that we will see the pace of change pick up. That’s why it is so encouraging to see more than 100 organisations meet the very high standard required to receive the WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation this year.”
Criteria for the citation covers leadership, learning and development, gender remuneration gaps, flexible working and other initiatives to support family responsibilities, employee consultation, preventing sex-based harassment and discrimination, and targets for improving gender equality outcomes. Criteria are regularly strengthened to reflect best practice.
Calvary is committed to continue to play our part in bridging the gender gap for women in the workplace and to look for ways to embrace diversity in our services.
Remembering our Mission - Mary Potter celebrations around the country
Throughout November, at locations around the country, we took time out of our busy days to remember the founder of the Little Company of Mary, the venerable Mary Potter.
Her legacy continues today in our work bringing comfort and support to people in need.
- Sr Mercia, Sr Pauline, Cheryle Zilwa, Sr Marie-Therese, Katherine McGrath (Board Member)
- Sr Marie-Therese reading the blessing to the audience
- Gathering for the delicious catering
- Robyn Zammit (CSO) and Phoebe Davies (SW)
- Service in Adelaide Room, Mt Waverley office.
1. Executive Officer, Edwina MacArthur, lighting the candle on behalf of the Darwin team
2. L-R: Sunil Sharma, Rosemary Mayo, Deirdre Ahipene , Emma Millard, Edwina MacArthur, Phil Ventry, Farzi Khan, Christine Carter, Jan Cartwright, Laura Oliver, Stacey Anderson
3. Farzi Khan
4. Jan Cartwright
5. Christine Carter
6. Stacey Anderson
7. Sunil Sharma
8. Emma Millard
1. Deb Henderson (CSO) lighting candle
2.Office staff L-R: Service Coordinator Sharon Hogan, Donna Griffiths, Bonny Duffy, Sharon Billings and Area Manager Maureen Flaherty
3. Back row L-R: Donna Griffiths, Lou Dibella, Yvette Edwards, Jan Atkinson, Maz DeSilva, Deb Henderson, Jenny Douglas, Anita Nemeth, Bonny Duffy; Front Row L-R: Jen Gibson, Faye Flower, Di Moore, Steph Conte and Sharon Hogan
1. Babette Philp, Case Manager, lighting the Mary Potter candle.
2. Back Row: Kyall Coulton, Helen Cheshire, Karen Dennett, Leonie Lowe, Judith Ross, Karen Murphy, Kayleen Cornall, Michael Bale and Kate Cox; Middle Row: Vipula Janu, Coral Cook, Margaret Davey, Lisa Bull, Sandra Lancaster, Aleesha Shaw, Angela West and Rebecca Mackay; First Row: Ebony Ranclaud, Tahnee Gower, Cathy Nicholls, Donna Gannon, Sarah Rees, Basia Pinkowski and Babette Philp.
ALICE SPRINGS
A poem from Alice Springs client, Vera Leach
In Memory of Mary Potter
It can be a long and lonely life, when you are on your own
But Mary you gave us Calvary, so we no longer felt alone
The carers come and take us shopping, do housework and so much more
To the disabled Mary, you made sure help was given,
On us you did not turn your back or close the door
The pearly gates will open Mary and as you step inside
The good Lord will place a halo on your head,
to be worn with gratitude and pride.
God bless you Mary and thank you very much.
Client care on extreme-heat days
Before a heatwave occurs
- Assess which clients are at risk – who has limited capacity to keep cool, or which homes are prone to being hot
- Check cooling systems in clients homes are adequate and working effectively
- Remind relatives and friends to ensure clients are cool and comfortable and appropriately dressed on hot days
- Offer extra support to clients where family and friends are not available to assist
During days of extreme heat
- Check that the temperature in a client’s home is kept at a comfortable level by keeping curtains and blinds closed to reduce excess heat.
- Ensure small amounts of fluids are readily available for the client to sip on often, rather than large amounts of fluids less frequently. The aim is not to wait until you feel thirsty before having a drink.
- Suggest alternative forms of fluid, such as jelly, ice-cream or fruit juice blocks and icy poles. Discourage your client from having alcoholic or coffee and tea (Check with client that their Doctor has not recommended any fluid restrictions).
- Encourage your clients to eat frequent small meals.
- Encourage clients to wear loose fitting clothing, use sunscreen and wear a hat. Keep skin covered when exposed to direct sunlight.
- Encourage clients to seek some shade when outside, and to avoid going outside between 11am and 3pm.
- Offer additional tepid showers or sponging, keep a wet face cloth in a plastic bag in the fridge or freezer to use on face, hands and arms when feeling hot.
- Use the air conditioner in the car when taking the client out. If the car has been parked in the sun, open doors and/or windows to cool it down before the client gets in.
Always observe your client for signs of heat stress, such as nausea, and changes in appearance including red, pale or severely dry skin, increased confusion, and cramps. A clinical assessment by the client’s doctor will be required if your client shows any signs of deterioration.
The effects of heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to very serious conditions such as severe confusion or heat stroke. Heat may also worsen the condition of someone who already has a medical condition such as heart disease.
A special note about medicines
Some medicines increase the risk of heat-associated illness in some people. If your client shows signs of heat-associated illness, report these symptoms to the Service Coordinator. If you are concerned about a client’s wellbeing, report it to the Office, contact his or her medical practitioner, and consider calling an ambulance.
'Tis the season to be jolly
- Jane Cleveland, National L&D Manager and Maureen Flaherty, Area Manager Vic/Tas, enjoying the catch up
- Staff enjoying a good laugh during Cheryl De Zilwa’s presentation
- Jessie Luan (annual Pause for Applause award recipient) receiving congratulations from Louise Adnum
- Support Workers give a show of hands as Cheryl commends their hard work
Annual staff Christmas celebration for the Adelaide Service Centre was held at Damien on Fisher.
1. Bev Walker (CSO) by the festive tree
2. Office staff and support workers enjoyed good company and great food in very pleasant surroundings.
Shepparton staff clearly looking very merry at their fab event at the Shepparton RSL.
- Standing: Skye Fitzgerald and Elisha Sawyer; L-R seated: Ian and Teresa Ladgrove, Jacky White, Kerrie and Joe Formica.
- Standing L-R: Glen Tremellan, Adrian Thompson and Jane Tremellan; L-R seated: Chris McNab, Kim Taylor, Damian O’Hare, Maureen Carli and
Di Moore. - Standing L-R: Geoff Long, Warren and Janine Brown; Seated L-R: Helen Long, Jen Baillie, Cherie Bolton; Standing: Di Arnold.
- Standing L-R: Jenny Douglas, Joy Norman, Sharon Hogan, Elyse Graham, Anna McNally; Seated L-R: Maz DeSilva, Helen Windsor Ryley and Sarah Watkins.
From L-R: Frances Kelly, Julieanne Simms, Linda Sutherland, Barb Hill, Carissa Bourke, Nicole Bray, Sandy Whatmore, Debbie Sleeman, Caitlin Green, Delila Whiting, Anita Stevenson, Sonya Wyles, Colleen Minos, Heather Dwyer, Margaret Campbell and Julianne Siggins.
Let's look at Police Checks
As part of our duty of care to our Clients, every single employee and contractor is required to undertake a mandatory police check. At the time of recruitment all employess are asked to complete a Police Check application and provide 100 points of Identification prior to commencing employment with Calvary Community Care. Police Check applications are also required to be renewed every three years.
Vulnerable people include children and adults who may be unable to take care of themselves, or are unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation due to age, illness, trauma, disability, or any other reason.
What kind of criminal offences can preclude you from employment?
When a police check is undertaken, the process searches for criminal offences that may preclude you from employment. This includes offences that involve assault, violence or fraud, as well as a number of other criminal offences prescribed by the Australian Government such as failure to vote, loss of drivers’ licence, etc.
I’m an employee, what do I need to do?
As part of your employment agreement, should you become aware you may be charged with or convicted of any criminal offence, it is your responsibility to notify your local line manager as soon as possible.
How do I know I need to renew?
Your Service Centre team manage the renewal process and will contact you when you are due to complete your next Police Check renewal . This will require you to complete the police check documentation and provide your 100 points of identification such as a drivers licence, passport, utility bill in your name and so on. Of course, should you have any questions or concerns, you can always arrange a confidential discussion with your Service Coordinator.
Police Checks are mandatory, they are for the protection of vulnerable clients and are a legal requirement, and all employees have agreed to undertake a Police Check every three years when signing their employment agreement.
Winners are Grinners - Put your hands together for the Annual Pause for Applause winners, monthly winners and nominees and the winner of the Inaugural Annual CEO Award
INAUGURAL ANNUAL CEO AWARD
The CCC Executive Team have taken great pleasure throughout the year reviewing the accolades and endorsements you have written for the nomination of your colleagues for outstanding performance.
This year, for the first time, they are thrilled to announce the winner of the Annual CEO Award. This year the winner has been selected from the pool of Pause for Applause nominees and is duly recognised by the Executive Team for their continued outstanding performance.
The 2016 CEO Award winner is… Julianne Siggins, Area Manager NSW & ACT.
“Julianne is an amazing Area Manager going above and beyond to assist everyone, whether it be employees, clients, outside stakeholders and whoever needs assistance or answers. Nothing is ever too much trouble. Julianne makes everyone feel that they are important and that they are an asset to Calvary Community Care. Her guidance makes you want to achieve and do your best at all times. She is an amazing role model.”
Cheryl was thrilled to present this award in person earlier this month.
2016 ANNUAL PAUSE FOR APPLAUSE AWARD WINNERS
Hospitality
Jocelyn Slater – Support Worker, Hunter
Healing
Sharon Billings – Client Services Officer, Shepparton
Respect
Stuart McArthur – ICT Officer, Mount Waverley
Stewardship
Jessie Luan – Assistant Accountant, Mount Waverley
OCTOBER PAUSE FOR APPLAUSE WINNERS
Hospitality – Service Support Team, Mount Waverley
“Jane White and the Service Support team supported all of the Service Centres that were having trouble with power outages and were unable to answer calls over the storm period. Jane and the team out of kindness covered our phone systems not only for the day without power, but also over the whole weekend, giving an opportunity for service centres to catch up on the missed workload. Jane was able to keep the communication going on behalf of service centres to Clients and Support Workers, keeping them up to date and also answering any requests along with taking messages. Service Coordinators cannot thank Jane and team enough for their sincere hospitality, support and excellence in continuing to deliver services to our Clients.”
Respect – Carina Greasley, Support Worker, Shepparton
“Our value of respect recognises the value and dignity of every person which is associated with our services. It is our responsibility to care for all with whom we come into contact with justice and compassion no matter what the circumstances. Carina works in a small country town and was coming home from a previous Calvary service when she came across a Client of Calvary walking along the road. Knowing that the Client was a fair way from home, Carina stopped and asked her if she was ok, the Client was very disorientated and confused and her safety was at risk. Carina supported the Client to the doctor, and arranged an appointment for the Client, whilst liaising with the office who contacted the Client’s family and Case Manager. The Client’s family and Case Manager were very appreciative of Carina’s help and the wonderful care that Carina and CCC provided even though it was not a scheduled service. Case Manager was happy to fund service due to the extreme circumstances.”
Healing – Donald Carse, Support Worker, Flinders Far North
“Donald displayed superior service when he was asked to go and dig a hole to potentially bury a terminally ill cat. Donald advised he would do it immediately after his first service and take him to the vet and if nothing could be done he would go back with client and dig the hole to bury the cat. Unfortunately the cat was put to sleep. Donald and client returned to the Client’s house where Donald dug the hole and buried the cat for the distraught Client. Donald then went and found a piece of concrete where he laid it over the cat’s grave as a memorial for the Client as he has no family and his cats are his companions. Donald ensured Client was going to be ok before he left Client’s house, he understood Client’s needs and exceeded Client’s expectations by doing all of this. This took a lot of unexpected pressure and stress off the Client and gave him the support & company at his time of need. Donald showed flexibility he was responsive and very understanding to the Client’s needs. Client contacted the office and complimented Donald for his superior service.”
Stewardship – Kayleen Palmer, Support Worker, Flinders Far North
“Due to storms and power outages recently in the Whyalla area, Kayleen took the initiative and made a huge difference to the lives of Clients. Kayleen took hot water in thermos and hot homemade soup around so Clients could eat and have a hot cuppa. Welfare checks were provided to all Clients and Kayleen also offered to charge other support workers phones if required, a thorough demonstration to our value of Stewardship.”
OCTOBER NOMINEES
Respect
Francine Moore, Melbourne South East
Donna Camilleri, Hunter
Carina Greasley, Shepparton
Healing
Donald Carse, Flinders Far North
Stewardship
Samantha Shayne, Melbourne East
Kayleen Palmer, Flinders Far North
Yiota Yacoub, Payroll
Hospitality
Service Support Team
In 2016 we launched the ‘Enhance the Client Journey’ workshop. The session is a highly interactive workshop that builds on your experience, and explores different techniques for working with a client-centred approach. The workshop is designed to provide an opportunity for all employees to “walk in the shoes” of our clients and view our services and interactions from their perspective.
“Great informative session, thank you!” – Client Services Officer
“Thoroughly enjoyable. It will help to better interact with clients.” – Support Worker
“Makes me feel good to work for Calvary” – Support Worker
“Best training I have attended!” – Care Coordinator
“Very entertaining and interesting – not boring!” – Admin
We have collated the 2016 feedback from all employees, and we received very positive ratings across all states and Service Centres.
When asked for comments about the day, you said:
When asked about the main message from the day, you said:
The Enhance the Client Journey sessions will continue to roll-out to all employees in 2017. Stay tuned for announcements on a session happening at your Service Centre.
- 15 year award recipients, Mandy Foster and Mel Shiels, Shepparton Service Centre
- Pamela Herbert presenting Dianne Smith and Anita Woodford their service awards
- The Sydney team celebrating with Hazel Still.
- Hazel Still, Sydney Service Coordinator, receives her 10 year award
- Adelaide SW, Belinda Ford (?), receiving her 10 year award from Susan Kerrigan
- Jan Patton (far left) and Pamela Herbert (second from right), pictured with service award recipients Linda Drew, Liz Harwood, and Cindy Bontoft
Brightening the days of those in need
1. Guarav Sondhi, Administration Officer, brings some festive cheer to the ACT Service Centre!
2. Throughout the year clients and staff of St Lukes Social Centre have donated non-perishable items for Christmas Hampers to be donated to Wesley Mission. These items were presented on Mary Potter Day to help celebrate the legacy of her service to people in need. Food hampers presented by Kellie Andrews- Leisure and Lifestyle Officer and John Procter -Support Worker. Received by Paul Procter and Sue McGuiness Management of Wesley Mission.Wesley Mission representatives were very appreciative of the support and kindness. Items collected will be donated to Newcastle families in need. We challenge other services and providers to become involved in supporting people in need.
3. Throughout December Mt Waverley head office staff have bee making donations for a Christmas Hamper appeal organised by Holy Family Parish Mount Waverley on behalf of St Vincent De Paul. All goodies collected will be packaged into hampers and distributed by St Vincent De Paul to families in need. Pictured: Aldo Santo, Procurement Manager Mt Waverley, and Pat Hynes, volunteer from Holy Family Parish making the first of two collections.
“Let us by word and example bring light to those who sit in darkness”
Venerable Mary Potter