Changes to home support services

Changes to home support services

Published on 30 August 2019

Some changes to home support services are expected as Council responds to ongoing reforms in the aged and disability services sector.

At its meeting on 28 August, Council resolved to cease providing some home support services, which will be delivered by other providers going forward.

Home and Community Care Program for Young People (HACCPYP) for people aged under 65 years or under 50 if Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI)

Council will notify the Victorian Government of its intention to exit its agreement to provide HACCPYP services by June 2020. HACCPYP represents a small percentage of Council’s home support services (35 clients) and, despite efforts to promote the program, demand has not increased. The small economies of scale do not support Council’s continued investment.

Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for people over 65 years or over 50 if ATSI

Council will notify the Commonwealth Government of its intention to exit its agreement to provide:

Meals on wheels by July 2020 Home maintenance and home modifications by July 2021

Meals on wheels have been decreasing significantly across Victoria for several years and there is very low demand for this service in Macedon Ranges Shire (17 clients). There are other ways that Council can ensure people get access to nutritious meals. It is expected home maintenance and home modifications could be more readily delivered with a different contracting arrangement.

Other home support services

Until more information is known regarding the federal expectations and funding of future programs, there will be no change to other CHSP services delivered by Council.

To inform further decision-making, Council will receive a report by June 2020 regarding:

Community feedback on the aspirations, future needs and priorities of older people in the shire Outcomes of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, and Any Commonwealth Government announcements regarding sector reform beyond July 2022.

Council will assist current clients in the changes, and they will be supported while considering options, choosing new providers and planning transitions to new services. Council will make direct contact with all residents who will be affected by the changes.

For information, call (03) 5422 0333 or email [email protected]