The launch of the Blue Mountains Elder Abuse Collaborative on July 4 saw the coming together of a broad range of service providers from across the Blue Mountains who had an opportunity to network, share ideas, experiences and knowledge about elder abuse.
Guests on the day included representatives from the Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit, Aged Care Assessment Team, Regional Assessment Team, Western Sydney Community Forum, Springwood police, Elizabeth Evatt Community Legal Centre, a number of neighbourhood centres, Family Support Services, NSW Ambulance Service, Blue Mountains Food Services, Community Health, council and others.
Also there were the federal member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, Blue Mountains MP Trish Doyle and deputy mayor Chris Van der Kley, who have also been strong supporters and advocates.
Aunty Carol Cooper provided welcome to country and highlighted the importance of community looking out for one another, the value of service providers working together and the important role that government can play.
Keynote speaker Shelly Harpur from the Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit spoke about what elder abuse is and the role of the helpline and the collaborative.
Social worker Jack Goldberg, having had many years working across the Blue Mountains, presented two case studies involving elder abuse which were both compelling and informative.
Felicity Tonks, Katoomba Neighbourhood Centre community worker, discussed how the resource kit works and the role of the Blue Mountains Collaborative on Elder Abuse. In particular, how the kit can help service providers and the community access information, how to recognise elder abuse and who to contact for possible assistance.
The launch also included newly appointed ambassador for the Blue Mountains Elder Abuse Collaborative, Julie McGregor. Ms McGregor, who has lived in the Mountains for many years and has a wide experience in the film and television industry, spoke of her connection to the community.
She also understood what it is like to have ageing parents and the complexities of caring for a loved one.
Ms McGregor acknowledged the roles of the workers involved and took pleasure in meeting the individual workers, hearing their stories and their passion for this cause.
The collaborative would like to acknowledge all who attended the launch. And thanks to Springwood Sports Club for their time and generosity in supporting this important event.
The Elder Abuse Helpline and Resource Unit can be contacted on 1800 628 221.
