Continuous improvement of services to clients
As a community services organisation, the quality of our work is measured by the impact of our services. That’s why we consistently focus on service outcomes and inclusivity to ensure we fulfil our commitments to the communities we serve.
This year, we’ve focused on advocating for closing gaps in a key service, introducing a new advisory group and continuing to champion diversity.
Closing the gaps in Financial Counselling and Capability services
BPA has identified several challenges older clients face in navigating aged care finances. Key issues include a limited understanding of available financial services and entry points. This is compounded by a reliance on centralised online and phone-based information, which restricts accessibility.
Clients often struggle to find financial support tailored to their specific needs. Delayed access to these essential services can lead to affordability concerns, mental health issues and physical strain. Additionally, debt accrual related to aged care fees can create further financial instability and defer necessary care.
In January 2024, BPA submitted a consultation paper titled ‘Review of Financial Wellbeing Capability Programs’ to the Department of Social Services. Our submission included key actions to
address the unmet needs of older individuals navigating aged care:
- Developing targeted education programs to improve awareness of financial options
- Expanding support channels to include in-person assistance
- Offering tailored financial counselling to reduce dependence on private advisors
- Establishing community-based advocacy services to help navigate the complexities of aged care finances
- Regularly reviewing income and asset thresholds to ensure affordability
- Collaborating with financial institutions to provide accessible, affordable financial advice tailored to older people’s needs.
These initiatives will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for older individuals, ensuring they can access the care they need without undue financial burden, loss of autonomy, or reduction in well-being.
Expanding new advisory group to LGBTIQ+
We have expanded our Community and Consumer Advisory Committee, to include people of more diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, holding LGBTIQ+ Community Advisory Committee meetings quarterly. These meetings provide valuable insights and lived experiences that inform our planning, service delivery, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Midsumma 2024
Once again, Better Pride connected with LGBTIQ+ communities at the Midsumma Festival, setting up a booth to share information about our wide range of services and distribute helpful resources. Our presence at the festival provided an opportunity to engage directly with the community, raise awareness about our support initiatives, and listen to the experiences and needs of LGBTIQ+ individuals.