SENIORS

Two NSW leaders in residential aged care , SummitCare and Uniting , have joined forces in helpful , mutually respectful ways to help each other ’ s staff and residents through the tough times caused by the COVID-19 pandemic .

SummitCare Baulkham Hills home , unfortunately , detected COVID-19 infections in three of their residents in early July , resulting in immediate lockdown .

While SummitCare ’ s preparation and response went above and beyond all government protocols , their industry peers at Uniting recognised the anxiety their residents and staff were experiencing .

The Uniting team of staff and residents generously focussed on assisting their SummitCare friends who were isolating . They created and delivered care packages that included flowers , games and home-made cakes , chocolates , activity packs and letters of encouragement for residents and staff .

SummitCare ’ s Chief Operating Officer , Michelle Sloane , describes the gesture as ‘ wonderfully heart-warming ’.

“ Our residents were so touched by Uniting ’ s emotional support . It just demonstrates how cross-sector collaboration and resource-sharing can be a powerful bright light in times of crisis ,” she said .

Uniting Ageing Executive Director ,

Saviour Buhagiar , agrees . “ Whilst staffing is challenging in aged care especially in recent time times , it was important to offer SummitCare some support during their difficult period ,” he said .

“ Our residents and staff jumped at the chance of being involved in such a wonderful initiative . The activity meant they could contribute some cheer to their industry colleagues and fellow residents at SummitCare .”

SummitCare was also able to share lessons from their experience with their colleagues at Uniting .

“ It is so gratifying to know that the sector can band together and support each other when times are tough ,” said Michelle .

“ The global COVID-19 pandemic has re-framed many aspects of the ways we live and the ways we support our most vulnerable Australians . Our work with Uniting is a great example of how people and organisations can look after each other .”

SummitCare has been operating in NSW for more than 50 years and now has 10 homes across Sydney and Wallsend in Newcastle .

Uniting operates 70 residential aged care homes in 55 locations across NSW and ACT , as well as looking after thousands of clients who use their home care services . For more information , contact

SummitCare on 1300 68 55 48 .

SummitCare Baulkham Hills promotes healthy ageing and active living . With beautifully gardens and prestigious rooms from Premium ensuites to Superior Deluxe Couple suites , Concessional and DVA clients are welcome .

THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 137 // OCTOBER 2021 23