act seniors and veterans newsletter september 2018 · web viewit’s spring and, once again,...
TRANSCRIPT
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ACT Seniors and Veterans NewsletterSeptember 2018
Contents
Contents.......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Upcoming Events............................................................................................................................................ 2
Grants Programs............................................................................................................................................. 7
Recreational, health and wellbeing.................................................................................................................9
Training and education..................................................................................................................................15
Volunteering opportunities...........................................................................................................................20
Information and assistance........................................................................................................................... 22
Mailing List and Future Articles.....................................................................................................................27
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Upcoming Events
Australian Premiere of the Diggers Requiem
The Diggers’ Requiem is a moving Australian tribute to the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One.
Including music written by Australia’s finest living composers, it will be performed in this once only event by the newly formed Australian War Memorial (AWM) Orchestra and Choir, the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon, directed by AWM artist-in-residence Christopher Latham.
This unmissable event will feature the ringing of 62,000 bells, to commemorate the death of every Australian who died in WW1.
The Diggers’ Requiem tells the story of the iconic battles for Australians on the Western Front, including Fromelles, Pozières, Bapaume, Bullecourt, 3rd Ypres and Passchendaele, Villers-Bretonneux, and Amiens.
The music includes the final work by the Australian composer FS Kelly, his Somme Lament, written just two weeks before his death in 1916 on the Somme. Composers Nigel Westlake, Elena Kats-Chernin, Richard Mills, Graeme Koehne, Ross Edwards, Andrew Schultz and Christopher Latham have all written movements.
Time: 7.30pm
Date: Saturday, 6 October 2018
Venue: Llewellyn Hall, ANU Canberra
Cost: From $24.00
To book tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=DIGGERS18
For more information visit: http://theflowersofwar.org/
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Bonsai Show 2018 Canberra Bonsai SocietyIt’s spring and, once again, it’s time for the Canberra Bonsai Society Annual Show, being held this year at the new venue, Canberra High School.
The display will feature high quality bonsai from the collections of CBS members, including some created by local artists currently represented in the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia at the National Arboretum, Canberra. The display will include both traditional exotic plant species and Australian species.
This year we are expecting that there will be a number of local “yamadori” (trees collected from the wild) trees on display. There are also expected to be some large group plantings.
In addition to the display, demonstration sessions will be held at 11am and 2pm daily, covering aspects of designing and maintaining bonsai.
We are again holding the very popular ‘Bonsai Basics’ sessions at 10am and 1pm daily. These sessions are designed for novice bonsai enthusiasts or those thinking of taking up the art and provide an introduction to fundamental bonsai techniques such as wiring, repotting and root pruning, styling and bonsai maintenance.
Plant sales this year will include starter plants, advanced stock trees and styled bonsai. This is a great opportunity to buy trees of a quality which are not available often in Canberra.Australian made and imported Japanese and Chinese bonsai pots, tools & wire, books will also be available.
Visitors will also be able to vote for their favourite bonsai. Date: 13-14 October 2018
Time: Saturday, 9am - 5pm Sunday, 9am - 4pm
Where: Canberra High SchoolBindubi Street, Macquarie
Cost: Tickets available at the door.Adults: $5.00Concessions: $3.00Accompanied children under 12: Free
More Info: Email: [email protected]: http://www.cbs.org.au/
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Tea Party FundraiserPlease join us to support our Deaf Seniors ACT
When: Saturday, 27 October 2018
Time: 1pm – 5pm
Where: ACT Deafness Resource CentreGrant Cameron Community Centre27 Mulley Street, Holder
Entry: $10 per person (food and drinks included)
RSVP: 10th October
For catering purpose; please email directly two emails same time:[email protected] & [email protected]
Please advise any special dietary requirements
There will be free “ONE” tasting wine
Family, Friends and Auslan students are welcome!
Canberra Seniors Centre Christmas FeteDate: Saturday, 17 November 2018
Time: 9am – 2pm
Where: Canberra Seniors Centre, 10 Watson Street, Turner
Cost: Free
We need your treasures! Any donations in clean, good condition from clothes to toys, games, books, jewellery, plants and bric-a-brac will be gratefully accepted at the Centre on weekdays.
Then come along on the day, browse, enjoy some tasty treats, try a sausage and find something nice to take home.
More Info: Contact phone 6248 9509 or email [email protected]
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COTA at the ShopsCOTA ACT will be out and about across Canberra over the coming months with pop up sites at shopping centres.
Pop by and pick up a range of resources, including the ACT Seniors Card Discount Directory and the Guide to Getting Around Canberra, be issued with an ACT Seniors Card and get information on services, organisations, groups and events across Canberra.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page to see where we’ll be at – and let us know if you’d like to see us pop up at your local shops!
Save the date – COTA ACT AGMCOTA ACT will be holding their AGM on Wednesday 24 October.Lunch provided following the AGM
When: 12.30pm, Wed 24 Oct
Where: Hughes Community Centre Hall, Wisdom St Hughes
RSVP: [email protected] by Mon 22 Oct
Upcoming ACT Seniors Card Discount DirectoryWork is under way on the new 2019-2021 ACT Seniors Card Directory. If you know of, or own a business that would like to appear in the Directory with a free listing or paid ad and offer a Seniors Card discount, please contact our office on 6282 3777 or [email protected].
We would appreciate any feedback on what you would like to see in the next Directory.
Interstate Seniors Cards Just in time for Floriade COTA ACT will now be issuing Interstate Seniors Cards.
Interstate applicants can call into our office at the Hughes Community Centre to obtain their card or alternatively they can apply before they commence their trip and the card will be sent out.
To be eligible for an Interstate Seniors Card, applicants must hold a Seniors Card relevant to their State or Territory. Contact COTA ACT for more information on 6282 3777.
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Grants Programs
2018-19 Seniors Grants ProgramApplications are currently open and close on 15 October 2018
The Seniors Grants Program provides funding for innovative projects that promote seniors as valued members of the ACT community and enable their active participation in community life. The Program has a particular emphasis on supporting projects which address the areas of elder abuse, enhanced social inclusion and those that address the needs of diverse seniors, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse seniors.
A total of $80,000 (GST exclusive) is available.
To apply, visit http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/home/grants
Enquiries (02) 6207 8830Email [email protected]
2018-19 Veterans Grants Program Applications are currently open and close on 15 October 2018
The primary aim of the Veterans Grants Program is to support veterans and their family’s wellbeing and social inclusion. To best meet the needs of the veteran community, a focus on ageing veterans, contemporary veterans and veterans’ families might be considered collectively or separately as the focus of the grant application.
Applications are sought for innovative projects that promote veterans as valued members of the ACT community and enable them to participate in community activities.
A total of $80,000 (GST exclusive) is available.
To apply, visit http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/home/grants
Enquiries (02) 6205 4286Email [email protected]
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2018/19 Health Promotion Innovation Fund Applications are currently open and close on 21 September 2018.
The 2018/19 Health Promotion Innovation Fund is seeking applications from community-based groups, school communities, not-for-profit organisations and government agencies to trial smaller-scale, innovative health promotion projects of up to $15,000 that will: support healthy ageing reduce smoking-related harm reduce alcohol-related harm reduce overweight and obesity through improving eating habits and increasing physical activity
Up to $100,000 in funding is available to support projects of up to 12 months duration that will be delivered from February 2019.
For more information, including accessing the application form and funding guidelines, please visit the ACT Health Promotion Grants Program webpage at www.health.act.gov.au/hpgrants, email [email protected] or call us on 6205 1325.
2018 ACT Mature Workers Grants ProgramApplications are currently open and close on 1 October 2018
The Program aims to support new services designed to: address barriers experienced by mature workers seeking to upskill or reskill; and assist employers to recruit and retain skilled, experienced, mature workers.
Applicants are invited to attend an information session on 14 September 2018.Time: 3:00pm to 4:30pm
Location: Conference Room, Level 4, Canberra Nara Centre, 1 Constitution Avenue, Canberra City
Registration: Please email the name of your organisation along with the name and contact information of the person/s attending the Information session to [email protected] by 13 September 2018.
It is highly recommended that all potential applicants attend this information session. In the event that you are unable to attend, the presentation and FAQs arising from the information session will be made available on the website.
Enquiries: Phone: +61 2 6205 8555, Email: [email protected] [Attention: Anita]More information is available at: https://www.cmtedd.act.gov.au/enterprise-canberra2/skillscanberra/mature-workers-grants-program
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ACT Women’s Return to Work Grants ProgramThe ACT Women’s Return to Work Grants Program, administered through the ACT Office for Women, is an ACT Government Initiative which provides women returning to the paid workforce with assistance in reaching this goal. The program aims to assist women on low incomes and women who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, young mothers or mothers with disabilities with assistance to return to work. Successful applicants are able to access financial assistance of up to $1,000 to support their return to employment.
The grant has been used for a range of activities and resources including education and training fees, educational expenses such as textbooks, computers/software and transport to courses/study, or work related expenses such as clothing, uniforms and equipment and childcare.
The Return to Work Coordinator is happy to visit groups of women and provide more information about the grant.
If you have any further inquiries please call 6205 2885 or email [email protected]
Recreational, health and wellbeing
South Canberra Veterans ShedVeterans’ Sheds are meeting places where serving and ex-serving Veterans and Emergency Services Personnel, regardless of gender, can socialise, discuss issues of concern with like-minded mates, enjoy themselves, learn new skills, work on projects together and get involved in activities to support their shed and other community organisations.
Social:
When: Wednesdays: 12pm – 3pm Where: Lake Tuggeranong Sea Scouts Hall
Mortimer Lewis Drive, Greenway
Social & Workshop:
When: Mondays & Thursdays: 9am – 1pm Where: Tuggeranong Archery Club Workshop
299 Soward Way, Greenway.
Cost: Visitors free. For Members there is a joining fee and an annual fee.More Information: Call 0490 043 158 or 0490 013 462 Email: [email protected] or visit https://mensshed.org/profile/AMSA101255/
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Forrest Men’s ShedDate: Each Tuesday
Time: 10am – 12noon
Where: Wesley Uniting Church 20-22 National Circuit, Forrest ACT 2602
Cost: $2 contribution for morning tea
More Info: Ph 0490 027 153 tinyurl.com/MENS-SHED-FORREST
Forrest Men’s Shed has a weekly program including speakers, cooking and a woodworking workshop.
Canberra International Pitch & Putt (CIPP) Golf ClubThe Canberra International Pitch & Putt golf club is a not for profit club and, is an ideal way for seniors to keep healthy. Our unofficial mission statement is “It keeps you healthy physically, mentally and socially.” It is just a smaller version of golf and the entire 18 holes is less than one kilometer long. It gets you out in the fresh air and typically takes only about 90 minutes to play, so it doesn’t take a big chunk of time out of your day. On the mental side of things, you keep your brain active thinking about the next shot or which way the putt is going to break etc. It also keeps you socially active as you will get to meet and mingle with a group of people you may never have met otherwise. This social aspect could lead to meeting people who have other interests as well. If you would like more information concerning the CIPP, just send us a message on the FB page or, ask questions in the comments field on any post. Come along and try it, you never know, you just might like it!
More Info: For more information visit our Face Book page:https://www.facebook.com/Pitch-Putt-Canberra-International-Golf-1373121746122026
Woden Community Service – Games on‘Games on’ is a free game group which meets every week to play fun and straight forward board games that are quick and easy to learn and a fun way to connect and socialise with others in our community.
Dates: Wednesdays
Time: 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Where: Woden Community Service (Community Room) 26 Corinna Street, Woden
Costs: Free
More Info: Contact Emma on 6181 2802 or email [email protected]
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Road to Recovery – YMCA Cancer Rehabilitation Exercise ProgramThis YMCA exercise based cancer rehabilitation program is designed for both cancer survivors and those who are currently undertaking cancer treatment.
It is conducted in a safe community environment at the YMCA Chifley Health and Wellness Centre, and run by one of our ESSA accredited Exercise Physiologists.
For cancer survivors exercise participation has been highlighted to halve mortality rates.
Other benefits of regular physical activity for cancer survivors may include: decreased fat mass; increased muscle mass; increase in the ability to perform daily living activities; increase in cardio fitness; decreased fatigue levels; and decreased risk of other chronic disease.
The program runs for 10 weeks with two sessions a week. Before getting started, participants will go through an initial assessment with one of our Exercise Physiologists.
Each exercise session will contain a group warm-up, cardio based interval training, an individually prescribed weights program and a relaxation component.
Cancer Rehab Program (45 minute sessions)
Starts: Term 4 from 15 October 2018
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 9am
Where: YMCA Chifley Health and Wellness Hub
Cost: $100 for non-members of YMCA Chifley, $80 for YMCA Chifley members
More Info: (Places are limited to 15 people). For more information or to register your spot, please contact the Chifley Health & Wellness Centre team on: 6281 0124 oremail: [email protected].
YMCA Memberships are also available from $20 per fortnight.
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Arthritis Action- Do you or anyone you know suffer from arthritis?Are you hesitant to exercise and not sure what type of exercise is best for you? Would you like to experience the enjoyment and health benefits of being physically active?
Arthritis sufferers may think that exercise will aggravate joint pain and stiffness, but this not the case! With the right exercise routine, joints will be less painful and stiff and you will improve strength, mobility and balance… this is why we launched our YMCA Arthritis Action Program!
Each term, there will be the delivery of two 10 week programs: Beginners and Advanced (pre-requisite is the completion of the Beginner program).
Arthritis Action was initiated with funding from the ACT Health Improvement Branch and with great success, is continuously going ahead due to high demands. The promotion of the program is also supported by COTA ACT and Arthritis ACT.
Arthritis Action programs are for adults over the age of 25yrs who have Arthritis, and is delivered by an ESSA accredited Exercise Physiologist. Participants will be assessed at the beginning and end of the 10 week term to measure improvements in upper and lower body strength, mobility, balance and physical activity levels.
Arthritis Action Beginner (45 minute sessions)Starts: Term 4 from 15 October 2018
Days: Mondays and Fridays, 1pm - 1.45pm
Where: YMCA Chifley Health and Wellness Hub
Cost: $100 for non-members of YMCA Chifley, $80 for YMCA Chifley members ($90 for COTA ACT & Arthritis ACT members)
More Info: Phone: 6281 0124 or email: [email protected].
Arthritis Action Advanced (one hour sessions)Starts: Term 4 from 15 October 2018
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 4pm - 5pm
Where: YMCA Chifley Health and Wellness Hub
Cost: $110 for non-members of YMCA Chifley, $90 for YMCA Chifley members ($100 for COTA ACT & Arthritis ACT members)
More Info: Phone: 6281 0124 or email: [email protected].
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YMCA Memberships are available from a low $20 per fortnight.
Feedback survey of ‘Using the Health Services in the ACT’ACT Health is a multicultural organisation that is working to enhance its response to cultural and linguistic diversity in the ACT.
Using Health Services in the ACT is a resource designed to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds navigate the ACT health system. Endorsed in February 2015, over 5000 copies of this information booklet was distributed.
The resource includes information about which health services should be used for different health problems, when they are available, where they are located; how to pay for health services; and rights and responsibilities when using health services, such as the right to an interpreter.
ACT Health is undertaking a planned review of this publication and seeks to gain consumers and service provider’s feedback on this document.
Following are the links to the surveys:
1. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3FHYBSB , (Survey aimed for service providers)
2. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3N639ZZ , (Survey aimed for consumers)
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This is one of several measures taken by ACT Health in improving its delivery of culturally appropriate and inclusive services and information to our multicultural community. Please find more information at http://health.act.gov.au/multicultural
Training and education
Seminar on Gut HealthWhat do you feed your gut bacteria to make sure they are balanced and function well?What happens when you don’t?How can good gut health affect your diseases and your general health?
Find out more at this interactive seminar with Accredited Practising Dietician/Nutritionist, Linda Smillie. Linda specialises in gastrointestinal disorders and plant-based diets.
When: 7pm – 9pmThursday, 20 September 2018
Where: Building 1, Pearce Community Centre, Collett Place, Pearce.
RSVP: [email protected]
Phone: 6230 7800.
Refreshments provided. This seminar is part of the Chronic Conditions Seminar Series.
Law for Non-LawyersLegal Aid ACT, the Community Legal Centres, and other organisations are delivering a range of legal training sessions.
Wednesday, 19 September - The Criminal Justice SystemUnderstanding and navigating the Criminal Justice System can be difficult. This session aims to assist workers understand:
key terminology; basic court processes; potential consequences of offences; what clients can expect when appearing in court; and what happens after court.
This session will be delivered by a lawyer from the criminal practice of Legal Aid ACT. Date: Wednesday, 19 September 2018
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Time: 9.30am to 11.30amWhere: Legal Aid, 2 Allsop Street, Canberra CityCost: Free. Materials and morning tea included RSVP: email [email protected] or phone 6243 3463.Wednesday, 17 October – Mental Health in the ACTThis session will cover key parts of the Mental Health Act 2015 (ACT) including:
rights of people with mental disorder or mental illness; supported decision making; capacity; nominated person; advance agreements; advance consent directions; mental Health Orders; and emergency detention & treatment.
This session will be delivered by a lawyer from Legal Aid ACT. Date: Wednesday, 17 October 2018Time: 9.30am to 11.30amWhere: Legal Aid, 2 Allsop Street, Canberra CityCost: Free. Materials and morning tea included
RSVP: email [email protected] or phone 6243 3463.
Wednesday, 7 November– Support for Victims of Crime Many people in the ACT have experienced crime in one way or another. People may have experienced crime directly, have witnessed an incident or have been close to someone who has experienced crime. Victim Support ACT is an independent statutory agency that provides a range of services to assist victims of crime.
This session will cover: the impact of crime on victims; services available to victims of crime in the ACT; the work of Victims Support ACT and how it can assist your clients; the ACT Victims of Crime Financial Assistance Scheme; raising a concern with the Victims of Crime Commissioner; and an ACT Charter of Rights for Victims of Crime.
This session will be delivered by Heidi Yates, ACT Victims of Crime Commissioner.Date: Wednesday 7 November 2018Time: 9.30am to 11.30amWhere: Legal Aid, 2 Allsop Street, Canberra CityCost: Free. Materials and morning tea included
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RSVP: email [email protected] or phone 6243 3463.
Wednesday, 21 November – Child SupportThis session will provide information on child support including:
Responsibilities and arrangements under the Child Support Scheme; how child support is calculated; paternity matters; how to challenge a decision of the Child Support Agency; and where clients can get help.
This session will be delivered by a lawyer from the family law practice of Legal Aid ACT. Date: Wednesday, 21 November 2018Time: 9.30am to 11.30amWhere: Legal Aid, 2 Allsop Street, Canberra CityCost: Free. Materials and morning tea included
RSVP: email [email protected] or phone 6243 3463.
LGBTIQ AWARENESS TRAINING for the AGED CARE SECTOR The AIDS Action Council of the ACT in partnership with the National LGBTI Health Alliance is delivering a workshop for the aged care sector, to gain a better understanding of the needs of the older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) community members.
This workshop will be relevant for all aged care sector workers and organisations providing aged care services especially those working towards meeting the new priorities under the National LGBTI Ageing and Aged Care Strategy.
The training session will define the LGBTI communities, explore the ageing experience for LGBTI elders and examine the importance of providing inclusive person-directed care.
The workshop is an interactive and participative session that provides practical tips and resources for staff to implement immediately, as well as advocating for policy and organisational change and developing strategies to make workplaces more inclusive.
A small group of up to 15 participants for this informative and educational workshop.Date: Thursday, 13 September 2018Time: 9.30am - 12.30pmMorning Tea provided. A nominal fee of $10 will be charged per participant for this training.
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To express an interest in attending the workshop and for further details please email [email protected] (or call 6257 2855). An initiative of the Australian Government for the Aged Care sector, in partnership with the National LGBTI Health Alliance.ACTCOSS & Volunteering and Contact ACT Workshops on:
Privacy law Volunteers and the Law
ACTCOSS & Volunteering and Contact ACT are proud to present two workshops: the morning session on Privacy law and the afternoon session on Volunteers and the Law.
You are welcome to come to either session, or the whole day - but will need to register accordingly.
Discounted rates are being offered to members of ACTCOSS and members of Volunteering and Contact ACT. It is ACTCOSS policy to reduce fees for consumer representatives or people experiencing disadvantage - please contact ACTCOSS for more information.
Please feel free to contact ACTCOSS directly if you would prefer to be registered manually. Otherwise details are below:
Tuesday, 23 October - 9.30am to 12.30pm - Session 1: Privacy Law
Are you handling the personal details of volunteers, members or clients? Privacy laws can be tricky for community organisations to navigate, particularly with developments in technology and increasing numbers of organisations collaborating to deliver services. Attend this seminar to make sure your organisation is doing the right thing.
In this half-day session you’ll learn about:
Overview of privacy laws and how to know whether they apply to your organisation An explanation of key terms - personal, sensitive and health information - and the
importance of understanding these The documents, systems and checks you should put in place today to protect personal
information and comply with privacy laws How to legally collect, use, disclose, handle and store personal information Responding to requests for personal information from courts, police and others What to do if there is a privacy complaint or data breach Top tips for complying with privacy law
Where: ACTCOSS Meeting Room, 1/6 Gritten Street, Weston Creek 2611
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Cost: Member Both Sessions - $400 | Non-Member Both Session - $450 | Member Single Session $220 | Non-Member Single Session - $250
Register via Eventbrite: https://nfp-law-privacy-and-volunteer-law-23-oct.eventbrite.com.auTuesday, 23 October - 2pm to 5pm - Session 2: Volunteers & the Law
This half-day session will provide essential training for anyone in a position of managing or co-ordinating volunteers.
Topics covered will include: The legal differences between a volunteer, an employee and an independent contractor Other forms of unpaid work (such as vocational placements, internships, work trials, work
for the dole, and court ordered 'volunteering') Volunteer selection process and equal opportunity laws Volunteer screening and background checks How to meet the 'duty of care' your organisation owes to volunteers An organisation's legal responsibility for the actions of its volunteers Volunteers and risk management The importance of volunteer insurance Workplace behaviours and volunteers (discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying and
victimisation) Reimbursing or paying volunteers Volunteers records, personal information and privacy Reviewing volunteer performance and having difficult conversations Ending the volunteer relationship Questions, top tips and summary
Where: ACTCOSS Meeting Room, 1/6 Gritten Street, Weston Creek 2611
Cost: Member Both Sessions - $400 | Non-Member Both Session - $450 | Member Single Session $220 | Non-Member Single Session - $250 There is free parking on-site!
Register via Eventbrite: https://nfp-law-privacy-and-volunteer-law-23-oct.eventbrite.com.au
Nutrition Australia ACT – Have Your Say on a Healthy Ageing ProgramAre you 45 or older?
If so, we would love to know your thoughts on a healthy ageing program currently being planned with assistance from University of Canberra Master of Nutrition and Dietetics students.
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Click on the link below to take our short two minute survey and have your say on what you think we need to include. Your answers will help to guide the development of a program that will help you eat well to age well. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RechargeyourhealthLifeline Canberra Training - Mental Health First AidLifeline Canberra is pleased to be offering Mental Health First Aid training in 2018! This two day course teaches adults how to assist other adults who are experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem.
It discusses mental health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis and substance use disorders as well as some of the potential crises that may arise including suicidal ideation, panic attacks, severe psychotic states and intoxication.
Course overview
More information on the course content can be found here: www.mhfa.com.au
Learning outcomes
Mental Health First Aid course teaches people (18 years and over) how to offer initial support to adults who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or in a mental health crisis, until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves. The course curriculum is evidence-based.
Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of the common and disabling mental health problems, how to provide initial help, where and how to get professional help, what sort of help has been shown by research to be effective, and how to provide first aid in a crisis situation.
Dates: 12 & 13 November (Mon & Tues)
9am - 4.30pm each day.Location: Lifeline Canberra training room, Level 1/71 Northbourne Avenue, Civic
Cost: $400 inc GST per person ($350 inc GST for charities/community organisations and pensioncard holders).
More information or to download a registration form, please visit www.act.lifeline.org.au or contact [email protected]
Volunteering opportunities
The University of Adelaide Online Survey – General Dementia Caregivers Research Project
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“If you are a carer for a loved one with dementia you may be interested in this online survey. Researchers at the University of Adelaide want you to help them study the positive outcomes of caregiving and the way people can feel both negative and positive towards a person at the same time. See the invitation for more information.”You are invited to participate in a research project being conducted at the University of Adelaide by Psychology Honours student, Andrea Richardson. The following information is provided for you to consider before you decide whether to take part.
What is the research project about?The project is about caregivers of people with dementia. We hope to gain a better understanding of their experiences and what impacts upon positive and negative outcomes for caregivers. Also, we are interested in the way that people can have positive and negative feelings towards a person at the same time.
Why am I being invited to participate?You have been invited because you may be a caregiver to someone with dementia. Your identity and contact details have NOT been provided to the researchers. If you know other caregivers of people with dementia, you may pass on this invitation.
Who can participate?To participate in this study you and the person you care for must be over the age of 18, and you must be able to understand written English. The person you care for must have a diagnosis of dementia and you must be the primary caregiver, particularly you must be:
Providing care for at least 1 hour each day; and Providing primary care for at least 3 months
What does the project involve?You are invited to complete an anonymous online survey which will take approximately 20--‐30 minutes to complete.
What are the potential benefits of this project?We hope that the results of this study will contribute to our understanding of the positive benefits of the caregiving role and the coping styles, experiences and outcomes of those providing care for loved ones with dementia.Are there any risks associated with participating?There are no foreseeable risks associated with this project.
What will happen with my information?Your information will remain entirely confidential and you will not be personally identifiable.
Further information is provide before participating in the survey.
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Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/dementiacaregivers
Information and assistance
Moving On – Develop Personal Strategies and ResourcesMoving On is a therapeutic group for women who want to develop strategies and personal resources for moving on after domestic violence, learning from and supporting each other. This is a closed group which means women start at the commencement of the eight week program.
Date: Term 4 – 2018
Time: The timing of each group is based on what the needs of the group are eachterm. When you register, please let us know if you would prefer during or out ofbusiness hours.
Where: The location of each group is based on what the needs of the group are each term.
Cost: Free event
More Info: 6280 0900 or via email to [email protected]
Light refreshments will be provided. This program is not suitable for children.
FREE Hearing testsHave you been postponing having your ears checked?
If you are aged over 18 then we have a great deal to offer you! Please come and have your hearing screening tests done for FREE, by our friendly staff at Australian Hearing.
This can be arranged at either at our offices in Civic (74 Northbourne Avenue) Ph: 62323200OR Tuggeranong (11/38 Reed Street, Greenway) Ph: 6206 9100
We also sell Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs).
NSW National Parks Pass – Discount for ACT Seniors Card HoldersCOTA ACT has been working with NSW National Parks and have come to an arrangement where ACT Seniors Card holders can obtain a discount of up to 20% on annual park entrance fees. In order to verify eligibility, the Parks staff contact COTA ACT office and confirm the applicant holds an ACT Seniors Card (similar to the arrangement with Access Canberra for the motor vehicle registration concession).
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More Info: Further information can be found following this link https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/passes-and-fees/annual-passes
Seniors Card ScoopLooking to make the most out of your Seniors Card? Not sure of the concessions are available to you or the businesses newly signed onto the scheme?
COTA ACT produces a quarterly e-newsletter for ACT Seniors Card holders to update them on information relating to their ACT Seniors Card.
If you don’t received the Scoop contact [email protected] to update your details.
Veterans Film Festival 2018Mr David Jenkins is a writer and producer of Ghetto Media. David is also an organiser for a film festival here in Canberra later this year. The film festival’s theme is veterans (across the defence and first responder cohorts) and looks at diversity.
If you are interested in the Veterans Film Festival 2018, please contact: Mr David JenkinsWriter/producerGhetto Media, Canberra
P.O. Box 1582 TUGGERANONG DC 2901Ph: 6154 0446 or 0447 314 153Email: [email protected] www.ghettomedia.com.au
How To Help Carers: raise awareness during National Carers Week Next month is National Carers Week (14-20 October) – a time to celebrate the amazing work that carers do for people in our community and to raise awareness of how we can all help them - after all, caring is a team activity not a spectator sport.
Most of us are a carer, will be a carer or know a carer in our community or workplace. But many of us don’t realise how challenging it can be for a carer to juggle caring, work, family and home - often resulting in mental, physical and financial stress.
So what can your organisation do to raise awareness?
1. Invite a speaker from Carers ACT to talk at your staff meeting.2. Display an ‘Are You A Carer?’ poster in your office.
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3. Display a ‘Top 10 Tips To Help A Carer’ poster in your office.4. Set up a table during Carers Week with our information resources.5. Put an article in your newsletter.6. Display information on your digital LCD screen message board.7. Share our Facebook and Twitter posts.8. Promote on your website and link to the Carers ACT website.9. Encourage your affiliated organisations to share this information.
To have a chat about how we can work together to raise awareness and help carers, please call Eva Hickman on 6296 9933 or 0481 254 953 or email [email protected]
Promoting Your Aged Care Services with Bilingual StaffThe Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing provides expertise in culturally inclusive policy and practices for the aged care services sector.
Through its Commonwealth funding it has developed an online Aged Care Services with Bilingual Staff Directory to allow consumers to search foraged care services employing bilingual staff. Aged care providers are encouraged to register for this directory.
There is currently only one ACT organisation listed as having bilingual staff.http://www.culturaldiversity.com.au/consumers-and-carers/aged-care-services-with-bilingual-staff
Free Mental Health Coaching ServiceWe can all become anxious and depressed at various times in our life. Next Step is a free mental health coaching service that can help you work through the difficult times. Just call 6287 8066.
This short term intensive program uses a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach to help you work through problems. It is a form of guided self-help and offers practical strategies to help you work through problems such as mild anxiety, depression and day to day life stress. You can access up to six sessions through the Low Intensity Next Step program that can be delivered in person or over the phone.
At the first appointment, a Next Step coach will complete an assessment with you and develop a program to meet your individual needs.
Call 6287 8066 or visit www.next-step.org.au for more information.
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If you would like to arrange for a talk at your work place on Next Step, please contact Pam Boyer at [email protected]. The Vietnam Veterans’ & Veteran’s Federation (ACT) Inc, (VVFACT)Volunteer staff at the VVFACT, Belconnen, assist with the Welfare and Advocacy work for all serving and ex-Defence Force members and their families, with assistance for DVA claims and compensation for injuries or conditions that could be attributed to Defence service. Reservists, certain Government Employees and Australian allies may also be eligible to make claims. All services are provided at no charge to the client.
The VVFACT is a registered not-for-profit charity organisation. Donations to the Vietnam Veterans and Veterans Federation are tax deductable and are welcome. Sponsorship in the form of cash, and goods and services, are also tax deductable.
We have fully equipped metal and carpentry workshops that are open Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. Other opening times are available by arrangement.
In addition, the VVFACT operate a large Food Van which is our main fund raiser. We attend a number of events in Canberra, Queanbeyan and NSW surrounding areas. There are always opportunities to volunteer service on the Food Van, and this may assist to overcome social isolation.
Social interaction is further enhanced by regular BBQs every Tuesday, commencing at 1145 onwards for a small cost. Come along to our premises at Page and catch up with mates and make new friends. Workshops are also open on Thursday’s and a light lunch of meat pies is provided at approximately 11.45 am for a small donation. Tea, coffee and cold drinks are available at any time for a small donation.
Other regular activities at VVFACT include: singing Group; guitar Group; gardening Group; hospital Visiting; cooking classes (conducted as a need is recognised);and a number of bus trips are arranged to places of interest throughout the year.
Membership is open to all those eligible persons previously mentioned, either as single or family membership. Certain associate member ship may also be available.
Volunteers from the community are welcome to assist at the Centre and on the Food Van and all assistance is gratefully accepted. Persons interested in advocacy training are welcome to enquire. Visitors are always welcome.
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The Veterans Support Centre Belconnen, 9 Burkitt Street, PagePh: 6255 1599, Email: [email protected] is an ACT Government Initiative to improve home security for households in the ACT.
The SafeHome Program aims to improve home security for households in the ACT who arevulnerable to property crime. This is undertaken through community education, the provision ofhome security assessments and minor modifications to eligible residences.
The program is open to ACT residents vulnerable to property crime. Contact us to discuss eligibility. The program is funded by the ACT Government and there are no costs to receiving assistance foreligible residents.
Do you attend a community group that would be interested in free practical workshops presenting ideas and strategies to improve home security? Please contact us to discuss further.
Phone: 1300 656 200Email: [email protected] Address: PO Box 508 Erindale Centre ACT 2903
Calvary Hospital – Nicotine Anonymous MeetingNicotine Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women helping each other to live our lives free of nicotine. We share our experience, strength and hope with each other so that we may be free from this powerful addiction.
The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using nicotine. There are no dues or fees for Nicotine Anonymous membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions.
Nicotine Anonymous is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization or institution; does not engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to offer support to those who are trying to gain freedom from nicotine.
When: 6pm to 7pm every WednesdayWhere: Calvary Hospital (Large Group Room, Ambulatory Care Centre, Marian Building--walk
past entrance to Emergency, go through sliding glass doors and follow the Nicotine Anonymous signs)
More Info: Available from Sylvia G 0411 153 496 or Tony B 0405-495-991.
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Email: nicacanberra01@gmail. co m Web: www.nicotine-anonymous.org
Do You Need a Break from Caring Role?Are you caring for:
Frail aged Australians (aged 65 years and over, or 50 years and over if indigenous); or People living with dementia?
Then this Centre Based respite (Commonwealth Home Support Program) program is for you. Theodora’s Place can give you a break and provide care and entertainment to your loved ones.
Services: support for carers to take a much needed break; time for Carers to attend appointments/to be with family and friends; flexible hours of attendance as per the need of the carers; emergency overnight respite; excellent staff - client ratio; a wide range of enjoyable and stimulating activities; wheel chair friendly entrance and separate parking area for the “Day Care Drop Off”; and social bus outings to the tourist locations in Canberra.
Centre Based Respite, funded by Australian Government, through Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is extended to 2020, so that as a carer, you can take a well-earned break.
The first step to accessing services is to phone the My Aged Care (MAC) on 1800 200 422. MAC staff will find out as much relevant information as possible about your situation. They will discuss your needs and the services you are eligible for that may help to meet your needs.
You can request your details be referred to THEODORA’S PLACE- Centre Based Day Respite Centre, St Andrews Village as your preferred provider of services - should you so choose.
Theodora’s Place operates 7 days a week at St Andrews Village, 95 Groom Street, Hughes, ACT 2605
For more information, please call 6283 4901 / 6283 4999 or Email- [email protected]
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Mailing List and Future Articles
Please let us know if you want to be added to our Newsletter mailing list (email or postal), or if you have an article you would like included in future editions, by emailing [email protected] or post to The Office for Seniors and Veterans, GPO Box 158, CANBERRA ACT 2601.
Feel free to pass on information about this newsletter to your friends and colleagues.