City of Swan opening a new chapter of Community Care

Published on 09 June 2020

City of Swan will continue operating its much-loved Community Care Services with some changes, following a long term review of the service.

At the May Council Meeting it was unanimously decided to transition out of Home Care Packages, which is utilised by 3.3% of clients, while also conducting a further review to ensure our full suite of support services is positioned for long term sustainability.

Community Care will continue to deliver other government funded support services including community transport, social support, shopping assistance, carer support groups, specialised activity clubs and in-home services for different demographics.

City of Swan Mayor Kevin Bailey said Council considered a number of options after consulting with stakeholders and community to make an informed decision.

"Our City is a place for everyone, and our goal is to provide quality services for our diverse population of almost 150,000 people," he said.

"These changes will allow the City to focus on our broader ageing community and strengthen our holistic range of services."

"Consultation showed we are trusted by our community and should continue the service as we have the best knowledge of local needs and issues."

Community Care Services has provided high quality service to the community since its inception in the 1980s.

The review commenced in 2016 due to multiple factors including a changing funding and policy environment, and an increasing number of aged care services operating within the City of Swan.

The review also considered the financial impact to operate the service, and if it is a local government’s role to operate a service of this type, compared to other services under the City’s Strategy for an Ageing Population.

Midland/Guildford Ward Councillor and Community Care Advisory Committee member Claire Scanlan said the City's highest priority is ensuring the wellbeing and safety of our Community Care clients, staff and volunteers.

"We are committed to working closely with each of our 25 Home Care Package clients to transition to a new provider in line with their preferences," she said.

"We are excited for this new chapter of Community Care Services and continuing to provide high quality care to our client base of more than 750 residents."

Transitioning out of Home Care Packages provides savings which can be channelled into our wider programs to create increased focus on the City’s whole demographic of seniors.

The next stage of the review will include improving the efficiency of the service and reducing the operating deficit.

There will be no immediate changes to the service, with the City initially focussing on reducing operating costs where possible, without impacting on the quality of care.

For more information about Community Care Services visit www.swan.wa.gov.au/communitycare