The City and Eastern Sydney CHSP Forum have been running in varying forms for decades and has continued to be a place for information sharing and sector updates throughout decades of reform in the sector.
As information becomes increasingly frequent and from multiple sources, providers are incentivised to compete more frequently than collaborate and the complexities of keeping up with reform increases, I wanted to share a few reflections on the value of a regional forum.
- Building local relationships. Connecting regularly and with space for discussion provides opportunities to build trust, strengthen connections with organisations facing similar challenges.
- Peer learning. Insights often come from hearing how neighbourhood organisations are approaching their work. So often updates via email are missed or difficult to understand the significance and relevancy of.
- Reform is experienced locally. Whilst policy changes are often designed nationally, the impacts are felt by local providers, staff and communities. In this group, we discuss what reform means in practice.
- A collective voice. When we identify common concerns and opportunities, we can act together, enabling us to advocate more effectively for the needs of older people.
- Regional perspectives are important. Local demographics, service systems and community needs differ across regions.
- Community outcomes. Ultimately, relationships and collaborative approaches help create a more connected and responsive support system for older people in our communities.
The forum on August 26 will be an opportunity to discuss the practice and implications of sector updates such as using GPMS, DEX updates and SCHADs award changes among other topical concerns within the sector.
For other specialised events and training opportunities for community aged care organisations, we encourage you to get in touch with us. If you are a leader of a small to medium organisation, we encourage you to join our leader’s group, co-hosted with JNC.
For further information or to be added to be sent the calendar invitation for the forum, please email Lalla: sspo@innersydneyvoice.org.au.