HACC is back at home

Staff at the South West Community Care’s home-based service Home and Community Care moved back into the Australind Senior Citizens Centre last month when expansion of the seniors’ facility was completed.

Operations manager Deborah Gunson said HACC had doubled its presence in Australind with two offices and four staff and extended office hours in recognition of the rapidly growing aged population.

During construction the office was temporarily moved to Eaton and Mrs Gunson said they were glad to be back and were looking forward to a positive partnership with the centre.

“We now cover the Harvey, Dardanup and Capel shires and from January 1 will run as one identity under the South West Community Care banner with offices in Harvey, Australind and Eaton,” she said.

“This allows us to make better use of resources and give clients more choices.

“People want to stay in their own homes as long as possible, and providing this service to enable them to stay at home is our core business.

HACC has about 800 clients across the three shires for in-home services ranging from domestic assistance and shopping support to home maintenance and respite.

Team leader Leeanne Lewis said there had been an increase in clients, especially in rural areas and from residents affected by the January fire.

“We have liaised with other organisations such as Red Cross, Department of Child Protection and Family Support, Accord West, GP Down South and the Salvation Army to provide support, not just services,” she said.

Residents can contact HACC on 9782 4000.