Making contributions to sector, older people’s lives
Victorian aged and palliative care nurse practitioner, Helen Newell, was recently awarded for her work in developing clinical education, mentoring and processes to ensure Barwon Health hospital staff are more clinically competent and able to identify and rapidly respond to residents whose health is deteriorating.
Victorian aged and palliative care nurse practitioner, Helen Newell, was presented with the ‘Employee’ award at the LASA Victoria annual Awards for Excellence in Melbourne last week.
Ms Newell was presented with the ‘Employee’ award at the Leading Age Services Australia – Victoria (LASA Victoria) annual Awards for Excellence in Melbourne last week.
Among other winners was aged care provider Southern Cross Care Vic (SCCV), who was awarded with the ‘large organisation’ award, for its work in implementing strategies to respond to workforce shortages, as well as positioning itself as a ‘1st Choice Employer’ that is recognised for providing developmental leadership opportunities for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) staff.
Winner of the ‘small organisation’ award was Wattle Glen Aged Care Facility, whose management after the Black Saturday fires spearheaded a comprehensive review of the unique risks faced, in consultation with the local Country Fire Service, police, the former Department of Health and Ageing and the Nillumbik Council. The facility’s response resulted in the formulation of an ‘Emergency Response Team’.
Ruth Hosking, from Uniting AgeWell Strath-Haven, was also recognised for her volunteer work for the past 26 years. Ms Hosking’s role as admissions coordinator provides support to potential residents and families experiencing emotional turmoil during the cumbersome process of placement in a residential facility.
Lastly, Katie Nott, Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) and documentation manager, and winner of the inaugural Young Leader Award (introduced to recognise excellence in industry employees under the age of 30 years), was recognised for becoming an ‘expert’ in the complex ACFI field after only two years in her role.
Now in its sixth year, the awards attracted nominations for outstanding individuals and organisations who were rewarded for their contributions to the aged and community care sector.
Ingrid Williams, LASA Victoria president, said the Victorian aged care industry was renowned for its dedication to ensuring older people receive the best possible quality care, “when and where they need it”.
“All nominees, finalists and winners should be congratulated for their outstanding efforts and contribution they make every day, not only to our industry, but to the lives of the older people they care for,” Ms Williams said.
