‘Sacred space’ for men in care
Doutta Galla Aged Services, a not for profit, community based residential aged care provider will reportedly be one of few providers in Australia to have its own Men’s Shed.
Doutta Galla Aged Services' Men's Shed officially opens today.
The Mayor of the City of Moonee Valley Councillor, Jan Chantry, along with Helen Rowe, senior philanthropy manager from Equity Trustees (Grosvenor Foundation), will officially open the Doutta Galla Men’s Shed program today at Doutta Galla Avondale Heights Aged Care Facility, located in North Road Avondale Heights.
The project has been supported by Equity Trustees (Grosvenor Foundation), the City of Moonee Valley and three of Doutta Galla’s suppliers – Swift Electrical, Philippou Plumbing and Lease Communications.
The establishment of this program will provide elderly men living within Doutta Galla’s seven residential aged care facilities, located in the west of Melbourne, with an opportunity to socialise, share life experiences and maintain a sense of purpose by participating in woodworking and recreation activities.
Vanda Laconese, Doutta Galla’s chief executive, says a man’s tool shed is a “sacred space which should not be lost just because they move into an aged care facility”.
“Everyone knows the important role that Men’s Sheds play in our local communities. Doutta Galla is thrilled to reintroduce this iconic environment, allowing our residents to tackle some exciting projects, and have a yarn with a fellow male resident,” Ms Iaconese says.
Doutta Galla Aged Services has more than 20 years experience caring for people from a diverse range of backgrounds.
For more information, contact Lisa Lawler, Doutta Galla community engagement manager, on (03) 9689 0644 or email llawler@dgas.org.au
