1 ‘positive ageing action plan 2010 – 2014’ · positive ageing action plan 2010 – 2014,...

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Positive Ageing Action Plan 2010 – 2014, Annual Review 2012

‘Positive Ageing Action Plan 2010 – 2014’ 1. Family, Social and Civic Participation Objective: To promote, support and celebrate community involvement by older adults as a means to enhance social

connectedness

Action Timeline Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012 1.1 To continue to support Council’s

Positive Ageing Lifestyles Program (PALS) which targets those over 55 years, including CALD communities, and offers a range of activities and programs that encourage social participation and promotes the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles. Examples include:

• Celebrating National Grandparents Day

• Promotion of Library services and programs

• Physical exercise • Public transport assisted

day trips and information sessions

• Recycling and sustainable environments

• Promotion of Neighbourhood Houses & Leisure Centres

On-going • PALS incorporated a diverse range of activities and programs to respond to numerous actions in the Positive Ageing Action Plan. i.e. Promote “Friends of “Groups, Promote volunteering opportunities, Community Safety workshops etc

• PALS program has increased its membership over the past 12months. There are currently 1600 residents registered on the database. Fifteen programs were held between September 2010 and May 2011 with an average of 37.6 attending each activity. Activities were varied including film session, education workshops, public transport assisted day trips, Neighbourhood House hosted activities, Service provided information sessions, health and safety workshops etc

• The PALS program underwent a re-development throughout 2011 – 2012 from a Council Service Deliver program to a Community Development Framework – supporting existing community groups to build capacity within the older community network. As a result community groups have reported back indicating that they have experienced greater awareness amongst the older adults in the community and some an increased participation at their programs. Overall the re-development has expanded the program from between 10 – 12 Council run programs per quarter to now promoting 4-6 Council run programs and a further 30 – 40 community group programs every four months

1.2 Continue to support: On-going • WCLC signed the MMS lease • Monash Men’s Shed celebrated its first

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• The development and implementation of the Men’s Shed in Monash project

• Waverley Community Learning Centre to successfully manage the project

agreement with Council commencing on 1 February 2011. Men’s Shed (MMS) officially opened on March 17, 2011

• Council Community Grant of $10,000 provided to assist with funding a Volunteer Coordinator and operational support for Waverley Community Learning Centre (WCLC)

• Council attends the MMS meeting and continues to support the WCLC

anniversary • WCLC continue to auspice the MMS and

receive support from a Council community grant.

• MMS beginning process of becoming incorporated

• Council continue to assist the MMS with issues such as governance as well as community grants

• Council attends the MMS meeting and continues to support the WCLC

1.3 Council to develop a ‘Community Consultation and Engagement’ framework ensuring that those 75+ years, along with other members of the community, will have the opportunity to provide feedback on Council plans, services and initiatives

2011 On-going

• ‘Community Consultation and Engagement’ framework was adopted by Council April, 2011

• Plans are underway to release the framework and guidelines incorporating information on engaging mature age residents

1.4 Support the State Government’s Seniors Festival by co-ordinating a number of activities throughout the month of October and ensure that these activities appeal to those 75+ years.

Annually • 2010 Seniors Festival hosted 4 feature events including the Positive Ageing Expo, Police Show Band Concert, Walktober at Jells PALS and a full day coach trip. The Monash Seniors Festival Booklet/program also promoted a further 44 activities/programs run by, Libraries, Neighbourhood House and a range of community groups

• The City of Monash Seniors Festival program continues to grow and offers older residents many opportunities to attend a range of information sessions, events, and open days organised through Council or community groups.

1.5 Continue to convene, support and provide administration to the:

On-going • Council continues to support and convene the Positive

• Council continue to provide support and administration to the PARG who continue to

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• Positive Aging Reference Group

• Senior Citizens Forum

Aging Reference Group holding meetings on a six week basis

• Council continues to support and convene the Seniors Citizens Forum quarterly

meet every six weeks Planning session was held on Thursday 15 March 2012

• Council continues to convene and support the Senior Citizen Forums and Seniors Groups. In 2012 the Seniors Citizens Forum members were encouraged to attend a range of training sessions organised through Council including Food Handling, Governance and Mediation. A Seniors Volunteer Badge was also developed and distributed to recognise the valuable contributions volunteers make to their clubs

1.6 Support and Strengthen community connections through the recently expanded Community Grants Program. The Community Grants program will encourage innovative grant applications that focus on supporting:

• Grandparents • Carers • Community Transport • Community Volunteering • Participation in the arts

On-going • Council continues to support community connections through the recently expanded Community Grants Program.

• In 2011 the total number of Grants received was as follows:

- 298 - Overall Grant applications received

- 209 -Total Successful Organisations Accepted

- 267 - Total successful application

Of that: - 113 were from the

‘Aged Category’ - 98 Aged Grant

Applications were successful

• The ‘Aged Grant Application’ focused on the older adults community i.e. Seniors Groups, Planned Activity Groups and Service Providers including MonashLink, and

• Council continues to support the community through the recently expanded Monash Community Grants program

• 3 informal information sessions and writing workshops are offered to the community to attend and the opportunity to discuss their proposed projects

• In 2012 the total number of Grants received was as follows: - 310 - Overall Grant applications received: - 216 -Total Successful Organisations

Accepted - 270 - Total successful application

Of that: - 116 were from the ‘Aged Category”

including seniors groups, Planned Activity Groups and services.

- 111 of these Aged Grant Applications were

successful • Continue to encourage the community to apply

for arts and cultural projects or events • Application and Policy & Guidelines are

translated in 3 different languages: Greek, Italian and Chinese.

• Community groups are able to submit their

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Newhope Foundation • Monash Neighbourhood

House Network has been funded to conduct a Grand Fun project – activities specifically for grandparents.

application in any language

1.7 Council continues to support Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres to provide low cost programs and activities to our residents, especially those over 75+ years and encourages innovative grant applications that address issues relating to older adults and grandparents including those from CALD backgrounds

On-going • Information and Arts supports Neighbourhood Houses by sponsoring a page in the Local Leader Newspaper to promote programs and, courses each Term

• Council continues to support Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres to provide low cost programs and activities to our residents, those especially 75+ years and over. Some of the activities and programs offered include:

art, creative writing, crochet, literature studies, pottery, dressmaking, French, Spanish, German, singing group

• Monash Neighbourhood House Network has been funded to conduct a Grand Fun project – activities specifically for grandparents. It is planned for this project to be undertaken around Seniors week in Sept/Oct 2011

• Council continues to support Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres (through partnerships and community grants) to provide low cost programs and activities to our residents, those especially 50+ years and over. These include walking groups, strength training, Pilates, gentle exercise, yoga and tai-chi

• Monash Neighbourhood House Network ran two ‘Grand Fun’ activities funded by Council > Grand Teddy Bear Picnic at Notting Hill > Grand High tea at Fusion in Oakleigh Both event were well attended

1.8 Council will recognise the important role that grandparents

On-going • The annual Walk in the Park, during Children’s week is

• Council continues to recognise the importance of grandparents and will send a flier to

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play during National Children’s Week by including and hosting a grandparent specific activity

attended by many grandparents

services targeting grandparents for Walk in the Park, A number of grandparents were amongst the nearly 400 people who attended Walk in the Park in October 2011.

1.9 Convene quarterly meetings of all Planned Activity Group (PAG) co-ordinators in the Monash area as a means of providing assistance and support to one another

On-going • An initial meeting has taken place in early 2010 to discuss the development of setting up quarterly PAG group meeting. Further investigation required

• Council continues to support and convene the Monash Interagency network meetings which has expanded to incorporate aged service providers and planned activity groups

1.10 Ensure ongoing provision of assisted shopping services for the HACC eligible frail elderly

On-going • The current escorted Shopping program, bus program and domestic shopping programs are continuing and remain ongoing

• Council continues to provide the escorted shopping, community bus and domestic shopping programs.

1.11 Continue to participate in the 3 year pilot ‘Ethnic Meals Subsidy program’ and evaluate its effectiveness in assisting multicultural senior citizens clubs to provide opportunities for social engagement via the sharing of a meal

2010 - 2013

• ‘Ethnic Meals Subsidy Program’ is in its second year of a three year pilot. There are currently 44 seniors groups involved in the program

• The Ethnic Meals Pilot was very successful with CALD Seniors Groups providing positive feedback

1.12 Ensure that there is adequate and appropriate seating along walking tracks and in parks and playgrounds to enable older adults, grandparents and carers to utilise open spaces

On-going • Actively installing seating along walking tracks, parks and playgrounds. Any requests for additional seating are logged and actioned, budget-permitting

• Actively installing seating along walking tracks, parks and playgrounds, including the following: Princess Hwy west reserve Talbot Park Bocci Courts – seat moved closer to Bocci and extra seat installed Hinkler Reserve – 3 seats installed Scotchmans Creek – 7 seats installed Essex Heights – seat replacement Chandler Grove Reserve – 2 picnic tables

• Have begun strategically upgrading seating along linear trails

• Requests for additional seating are logged and actioned, budget-permitting

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• Fitted new street furniture in Glen Waverley Activity Centre with more to be installed by June 2012

• Stage 1 – Seating ordered for Clayton Activity Centre

1.13 Conduct Grandparent orientated story time sessions at Monash Public Libraries as a means to encourage grandparent/grandchild participation in Council activities

2011 • Monash Public Library Services continues to program three story time sessions during the Summer 2010/2011 program. Grandparents were the primary carers bringing their grandchildren

• Seniors Festival 2010 – One session held at each library branch

• The Greek Community at the Oakleigh Branch established a ‘Conversation Circle’ to specifically support the older Greek community

• Monash Public Library Services continues this initiative .Six grandparent & special person story times were held in September 2011 including one on the weekend to support working grandparents/special persons

• Successful continuation of the Greek Conversation Circle for older Greek community at Oakleigh Library

1.14 Continue to host a range of activities that appeal to those over 75+ years at the Monash Public Libraries such as ‘Book Chats’ as a tool to encourage social engagement and reduce social isolation

On-going • Book Chat sessions have been introduced at six Aged Residential Care facilities and one PAG groups is currently participating in a Book Chat session at the Wheelers Hill branch

• Provision of books/resources for a book group run at Cumberland View Nursing Home

• Book chat sessions at four aged residential care facilities

• Poetic High Tea conducted with Council PALS staff during Seniors Festival. Over 80 attendees including residents from aged care facilities

1.15 Monash Libraries to continue to provide a delivery service to aged care residential facilities and the ‘Home Library Service’ for those residents who are unable to attend the library themselves

On-going • Monash Library Service continues to provide delivery services to 12 Aged Care Residential facilities within the City of Monash. The “Home Library Service’ is offered out

• Monash Library Service continues to provide delivery services to 12 aged care residential facilities within the City of Monash. The “Home Library Service” is offered out of the Glen Waverley, Waverley and Oakleigh branches with a total of 183 deliveries per month

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of the Glen Waverley, Waverley and Oakleigh branches with each branch delivering items to up to 30 residents per month

• The ‘Bus Run’ collects up to 20 residents per month and brings residents who are unable to attend the library themselves into the Oakleigh, Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley branches

• There are twenty deliveries per month to individuals by single volunteers

• The ‘Bus Run’ collects up to 20 residents per month and brings residents who are unable to attend the library themselves into the Oakleigh, Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley branches

1.16 Monash Libraries to employ an ‘Older Adults Outreach Librarian’ to meet the needs of the over 55’s and expand the home library service

2011 • Older Adult Librarian Officer (EFT 1) employed in August 2010

• Older Adult Librarian continues to establish relationships with aged care facilities, liaising with other Council services, and linking and supporting volunteers with housebound clients

1.17 Monash Public Libraries to undertake a review of accessibility in relation to geographic location and outreach opportunities e.g. Batesford Hub

2010-2011

• Review of Accessibility report to Council in April 2011

• Currently investigating opportunities to increase Library Public Assess at smaller remote sites i.e. Batesford Community Hub, Wellington Reserve Community Centre

• Library provides Wi-Fi access to Batesford Community Hub, and assists setup of wifi at Wellington Reserve Community Centre

• Library supplies laptop PCs to Wellington Reserve Community Centre to support Homework Club programme

• Library deploys web access to enable new-member registration at community festivals and events

• Proposal for library service point at Wellington Reserve Community Centre presented to Council for approval 2012-2013 financial year

1.18 Ongoing evaluation to ensure that Council continues to provide and facilitate a range of festivals, events and projects that engage groups and services that target those over 75+ years

On-going • Festival Fund Consultation implemented in early 2011. Community profile information gathered including age group identified when providing feedback to assist with evaluation of findings and

• Arts and Cultural Development promotes community and family participation through a range of organised workshops in all its Festivals.

• Registered community events promoted in the Australia Day and Oakleigh Music Festival programs offer the community the opportunity

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recommendations. Consultation completed 20 March 2011. Report to Council April 2011

• Festivals developed and implemented with suggestions and input from older people

to showcase cultural events. • Winter Concert Series and the Sir John

Monash Lecture target the Baby Boomer demographic and provides free quality entertainment

1.19 Continue to encourage active participation by Monash Seniors Groups and Clubs in arts and cultural projects and provide support through the provision of information, networking and training opportunities

On-going • The Flavours of Oakleigh Festival ‘Flavours of Monash’ stage invited a number of Cultural groups to participate by cooking a cultural meal and performing on stage. The majority of groups who participate are Seniors Groups from CALD backgrounds

• Arts and Cultural Development continue to involve and invite Cultural senior groups to participate at the Flavours of Monash stage by cooking a cultural meal and share their migration stories on stage.

• Arts and Cultural Development continue to program activities during NAIDOC week catering specifically for seniors and their grandchildren. The NAIDOC activities are well attended: Boomerang workshop, Aboriginal Flag raising, screening of Indigenous movies and Indigenous walks.

• Arts Networks Sessions offer free skills development workshops for arts groups where community groups develop and strengthen skills, resources and knowledge

1.20 Continue to support the MGA as a cultural centre within the community that is attractive to those 75+ years and that provides opportunities for attendance and active participation

On-going • Identifying marketing strategies to target those 75+ years i.e. targeted mail out promoting Arts Life and MGA exhibitions and events

• Council continues to support MGA as a cultural centre within the community and provides opportunities for attendance and active participation, activities offered over the past twelve months include:

Exhibitions: • In the spotlight: Anton Bruehl (June-

September 2011) • John Street: slow photography (Oct-Dec 2011)

Advertising/promotion: • 50 plus news • Art and antiques

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• Targeted mail out Events:

• Friends of MGA hosted PALS members for a morning coffee and tour of the gallery

• Film screening: Shanghai Express (Aug 2011) • Artist talk and arvo tea with John Street (Nov

2011) Friends of MGA events:

• Friends of MGA morning coffee program with Terry Lane (Mar 2012)

• Friends of MGA: concert program with Jazz Biz 6 (Oct 2011)

• Friends of MGA morning coffee program with Chelsea Flower show (Oct 2011)

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2. Health and Wellbeing

Objective: To build and maximise opportunities for positive healthy lifestyles and enhance physical and mental wellbeing

Action Timeline Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012 2.1 Incorporate into the PALS

program information on volunteering opportunities, organic and sustainable gardening, recycling, community safety and similar topics that target and interest those 75+ years

On-going • Information incorporated into the PALS booklet when appropriate and when adequate space is available. Restricted by program parameters and resourcing

• The PALS program continues to incorporate information on a range of topics and opportunities when appropriate and when adequate space is available. Restricted by program parameters and resourcing

2.2 Council to continue to collaborate with the Inner East Primary Care Partnership on projects addressing ageing, an identified priority for 2009 – 2012

On-going • Continuing to collaborate with Inner East Primary Care Partnerships and attending meetings as required

• Council continues to collaborate with Inner East Primary Care Partnerships and attending meetings as required

2.3 Monitor the developments of the National Health Reform in regards to the Medicare Locales and the implementation of the Primary Health Care Organisations and funding of Health and Primary Care services by State and Federal government & assess the impact that this will have on the availability of health services

On-going • Attending meetings as stakeholder with Medicare Locals and supporting structures of Medicare Locals

• Attending National Health Reform workshops

• Council continues to monitor the developments of National Health Reforms and continues to attend Medicare Locals meetings and Primary Care Partnership meetings

• Continue to attend national Health Reform workshops when and where relevant

2.4 Investigate opportunities to work in partnership with other organisations to address the issue of food security for the elderly

2010 – 2014

• Currently working with MonashLink Community Health Centre

• Council to further investigate resources for involvement in 2012 - 2013

• A once-off small amount of funding was provided to implement a project ‘Veggie Day’, in 2012 that promoted community gardens, farmers markets and cooking groups to the general community

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2.5 Monash Public Libraries to continue to host ‘Seniors Computer Classes and the ‘Multicultural Seniors Computer Classes’ across the 5 branches to ensure that all seniors are provided with the opportunity to learn how to use computers

On-going • Monash Public Library continues to offer and implement the Seniors Computer Classes across the five branches. Currently eight sessions are held bi-annually with five modules per session. Four in English and a further four targeting the CALD Communities, primarily the Greek, Italian and Chinese. Each session caters for 12 participants and are always fully booked

• Monash Public Library continues to offer and implement the Seniors Computer Classes across the five branches. Currently eight sessions are held bi-annually with five modules per session. Five in English and a further three targeting the CALD Communities, primarily the Greek, Italian and Chinese. Each session caters for 12 participants fully booked

2.6 Council to continue to support frail elderly residents to live in their own homes through the provision of Community Care services that build their capacity and increase their independence

On-going • Re-developed the Community Care information Brochure with 2000 copied printed and distributed in April 2010

• New marketing material was released in late 2011 ‘Embrace Community Services – Caring Today, Active Tomorrow’, available in languages other than English

• At the Oakleigh Music Festival day on Sunday 18 March – staff had face to face contact with the community and distributed the Community Care Brochure and new marketing material

2.7 Implement the Active Service Model of service delivery to the frail elderly, as supported by the State Government. This model encourages increasing independent living within the home.

On-going • Active Service Model underway and training of staff implemented

• Active Service Model is underway and training of staff implemented – now ongoing.

2.8 Continue to offer the ‘Home Maintenance Program’ to eligible Community Care clients

On-going • ‘Home Maintenance Program’ is continuing as required to eligible Community Care clients

• Council continues to implement the ‘Home Maintenance Program’ as required to eligible Community Care clients

2.9 Support MonashLink to advocate As • Current and ongoing support • Council has employed a part time (0.6

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for more Occupational Therapists services within the municipality

required provided to MonashLink to advocate for more Occupational Therapists services within the municipality

EFT) Occupational Therapist for a two year part time contract who will be working in collaboration with MonashLink

2.10 Council to provide information to those 75+ years on the range of Community Care and Residential Services offered by Monash Council by introducing an annual forum, information in the Bulletin and PALS, attendance at community events and Council’s website etc

On-going • External consultant reviewing marketing strategy and will support the introduction and marketing of an annual forum information to those 75+ years on the range of Community Care and Residential Services offered by Monash Council

• New marketing material was released in late 2011 ‘Embrace Community Services – Caring Today, Active Tomorrow’, available in languages other than English

• Incorporate Annual Community Care Forum into the City of Monash Seniors Festival and Positive Ageing Expo

2.11 Continue the provision of a delivered meals service offering a menu suitable to a culturally diverse community

Ongoing • New Monash Meals supplier ‘Community Chef’’ are providing culturally diverse meals with 6 options available to clients

• Council continues to provide the delivery of meals service through Community Chef offering a suitable culturally diverse menu

2.12 Council to continue to convene the Monash Interagency network which provides an opportunity for information sharing amongst service providers

On-going • Continue to convene Bi-monthly Monash Interagency network meetings with a range of service providers in the Monash region

• Council continues to support and convene the Monash Interagency network meetings which has expanded to incorporate Aged Service providers and planned activity groups

2.13 Council to explore the introduction of passive recreation facilities in key parks throughout the municipality to facilitate low impact physical activity programs (i.e. tai chi, yoga)

2010-2014 • Physical Activity Plan completed in November 2010, which highlighted the need for low impact physical activity programs throughout various location in the municipality

• Pilot Tai Chi ‘Active in the Park’ program to be implemented in spring/summer 2011 pending on budget outcomes

• Active People Active parks program implemented. Six week program with multiple activities running from Monday- Friday including walking groups, Tai Chi,. Yoga, Pilates, Bollywood Dancing, Zumba, Mums and Bubs Classes

• Over 50 sessions were facilitated in local parks with over 100 participants attending

• Amongst others, the program targeted ageing, CALD communities and people with a disability

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2.14 Continue to offer a Prime of Life membership at Council’s Aquatic & Leisure Centres

On-going • Prime of Life Membership continued

• Prime of Life Membership continued

2.15 Monash Leisure Centres to investigate the potential to provide outreach services to seniors groups, particularly CALD seniors, for gentle exercise programs

2010-2014 • Outreach exercise programs provided via the New Hope Centre to different community groups

• Eight Seniors Groups participated in the Seniors Outreach Exercise Program launched in February 2011 at the Ethnic Seniors Forum

• One CALD Seniors Group program continues to operate. As a result of the decline in participation, Council’s Positive Ageing area in partnership with NewHope Foundation is currently conducting an ‘Activity Audit’ pilot program of 4 CALD Seniors Groups involving consultation, planning and resource investigation to identify barriers and encourage groups to be more diverse in their program delivery

• Another project currently underway in conjunction with aged services is a pilot program whereby HACC clients will be picked up in a council bus, transported to ORC, participate in a specific class, have tea/coffee, then are taken home

2.16 Monash Leisure Centres will support the Victorian Carers Card as promoted by the State Government by providing carers with concession discounts

On-going • Victorian Carers Card discounts in place for all card holders as promoted by the State Government

• Monash Leisure Centres will continue to support the Victorian Carers Card as promoted by the State Government by providing carers with concession discounts

2.17 Continue to work in partnership with Monashlink on their low level exercise program at Monash Leisure Centres and investigate the potential to extend the pathway from these groups into the centres’ everyday programs

On-going • Creation of the partnership MARC/MonashLink Pathway program. This has increased the integration of MonashLink attendees to progress to the MARC Health & Fitness membership or into dry programs

• MARC/MonashLink continue to implement the Pathway program

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3. Volunteering

Objective: To encourage and support older adults to actively seek and engage in meaningful volunteering opportunities and to celebrate the contribution that volunteers make to our community

Action Timeline Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012 3.1 Create a volunteering page in the

PALS brochure which will list volunteer job opportunities and a profile of a current volunteer.

Quarterly • Strengthening partnership with MVRC. Set up ‘Thinking about Volunteering’ page in Autumn 2011 PALS booklet. MVRC to provide information for future PALS newsletters

• Strengthening partnership with MVRC, inviting MVRC to promote and advertise Volunteering in PALS booklet and link from PLAS webpage

• Working with MVRC in developing the Public Transport Mentor Volunteer Program

3.2 MVRC to hold two information sessions per year as part of the PALS program to introduce people to volunteering

On-going • First Volunteer information session to be held in October 2011 as part of the City of Monash Seniors Festival’ Positive Ageing Expo’

• Volunteer Information session incorporated as an annual program in the City of Monash Seniors Festival. The second session to occur depending on resources

3.3 Council will undertake a number of initiatives in regards to the recognition of volunteers:

• Conduct a review of its current practices in regards to recognising and celebrating volunteering in our community

• Develop a certificate signed by the Mayor that community groups, clubs etc can request in order to distribute to their volunteers as a means of recognising their invaluable contribution to their organisation.

• Create a ‘Senior Volunteer of the Year Award’, to be

2011 Ongoing

• Council to conduct a review of its current practices in relation to the Sir John Monash Community Awards. The Sir John Monash Community Awards recognise the vital contribution volunteers make to the Monash Community. Currently there are three categories:

1. Sir John Monash Community Leadership Award

2. Sir John Monash Volunteer of the Year Award

3. Sir John Monash Young Volunteer

• A discussion paper was prepared on the Sir John Monash Awards in mid- 2011

• Further investigation and interdepartmental

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awarded during National Volunteer Week, Council to present the award at the ‘National Volunteer Week Breakfast’

Award • Council has developed a

certificate. Further investigation is required in relation to the administration process for future implementation

• Further investigation for a potential partnership between Council and Monash Volunteer Resource Centre (MVRC) required

collaboration required to determine the scope of the Volunteer Certificate and best practice for implementation and administration. Administration of this project is subject to resourcing

• Upon review the Positive Ageing Reference Group (PARG) felt that the development of a Senior of the Year Award would be better suited as a PARG initiative. As a result Council endorsed the award in February 2012, to be awarded during the City of Monash Seniors Festival

• Senior Volunteer ‘Positive and Proud’ Badge was developed and given out to the many volunteers at the Ethnic Seniors Groups to acknowledge their dedication and contribution

3.4 Investigate the potential to increase volunteering opportunities to transport our residential care clients to health appointment when family members are unable to assist

2012 • Further investigation to be undertaken by Council in 2011/2012 for potential possibilities

• Monash Volunteer Resource Centre implemented a City bound Volunteer driver appointment service for Monash residents

• Due to the complex health needs of residential care clients Council negotiated with an independent nursing agency to provide this service and to liaise with families of residential care clients

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4. Community Safety

Objective: To improve both actual and perceived safety concerns amongst older residents and provide healthy, supportive environments for community participation

Action Timeline Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012 4.1 Incorporate a series of talks on

community safety and home safety into the PALS program such as a First Aid course (4 Steps for Life), Wiser Driver Information sessions and pedestrian safety

2010-2012

• Two, “4 Steps for Life” sessions were held in the 2011 Autumn PALS program with 38 participants in total

• The PALS program continues to incorporate information on a range of community safety and home safety topics when appropriate and when adequate space is available - restricted by program parameters and resourcing

• Council’s Positive Ageing program implemented a Mature Age Driver Refresher Lesson program with approximately 120 residents over the age of 55 years participating between February and June 2012

• A Wiser Driver Program was held in March 2012

• Wiser Walkers Live Longer session was held as part of the Seniors Festival in October 2011

4.2 Council to continue to support the Senior Citizens Register and assist the MVRC to promote this service more widely to the community including to CALD communities

On-going • Seniors Safety Register Brochure included into the PALS mail out on an annual basis. First inclusion of Brochure in June 2011. Mail out also sent to the Greater GP network, Seniors Groups and CALD Seniors Groups, Libraries, Neighbourhood Houses, and Civic Service Centres

• Council continues to support the Senior Citizens Register and assist the MVRC to promote this service more widely to the community including to CALD communities

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4.3 To conduct Emergency Evacuation Drills at the community Council facilities, utilised by seniors groups.

2012 Annually

• Currently as part of Councils use agreement, all user groups of Council facilities including the Seniors Groups are informed of evacuation requirements i.e. emergency evacuation venue maps, evacuation exits, evacuation meeting points

• Council continues to ensure that as part of Council’s use agreements, user groups of Council facilities including the seniors groups are informed of evacuation requirements i.e. emergency evacuation venue maps, evacuation exits, evacuation meeting points

4.4 Implement the Heat Wave Strategy to address community challenges associated with warmer weather and intense heat

On-going • Heatwave flyers were delivered to over 1500 older residents in Monash

• Heatwave information was provided to the Older Person’s Reference Group meeting

• ‘Heat Health’ tips were included in the Monash Bulletin and on Council’s website.

• Heatwave flyers and posters in key community languages were provided to local libraries, Neighbourhood Houses, Opportunity Shops, Council’s Service Centres and Recreation and Residential Care Facilities

• Priority HACC clients received fans, cool neck ties, cool gel hats, cool mats to sit/sleep on and telephone calls on the extreme hot weather days.

• Heatwave flyers were delivered to over 1500 older residents in Monash through the PALS program.

• ‘Heat Health’ tips page was live on Council’s website and a media release was distributed.

• Heatwave flyers and posters were provided to local libraries, Neighbourhood Houses, Council’s Service Centres, Depot, Local Laws, Events, Maternal and Child Health, Recreation Centres and priority HACC clients

4.5 Continue to offer ‘Home Safety Checks’ to eligible HACC clients.

On-going • ‘Home Safety Checks’ are ongoing and offered to all new eligible HACC clients. Home Fire Checks are also ongoing with all new HACC clients and offered bi-annually to existing HACC clients

• Council continues to offer ‘Home Safety Checks’ to all new eligible HACC clients. Home fire checks are also ongoing with all new HACC clients and offered bi-annually to existing HACC clients

4.6 Council to investigate the installation of way finding and pictogram signage at parks and

On-going • Currently developing a way finding signage system for Monash. Detail design for

• Developed a prototype way finding system for Monash

• Stage 1 - Way finding signage for Clayton

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reserves to ensure that residents can locate public amenities, picnic facilities, playgrounds and distance to specific locations etc

Oakleigh Mall will be completed by June 2011. Future focus on Clayton Activity Centre

area ordered in April 2012 • Tender report to Council in April 2012 for

Stage 1 of Oakleigh way finding system

4.7 Investigate upgrading and enhancing public lighting for pedestrian pathways and community spaces in accordance with CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) to address community safety at night

2014 • A number of public lighting locations inspected and updated as required, generally as a response to community requests.

• Upgrading and enhancing public lighting in activity centres, recreation reserves to enhance illumination and community safety

• Currently reviewing the level of lighting in Eaton Mall, Oakleigh in terms of illumination for community safety and environmental efficiency

• A number of public lighting locations inspected and updated as required, generally as a response to community requests.

• Ongoing upgrading and enhancing public lighting in activity centres, recreation reserves to enhance illumination and community safety

• Level of lighting in Eaton Mall, Oakleigh to be upgraded as part of the redevelopment of the Mall in 2012.

4.8 Council to continue to educate residents on the importance of pruning their trees for the safety of the community via an article in The Bulletin, annually

Annually • Regular advertisements in Monash Bulletin

1 March 2011 www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2011/documents/monashbulletin1mar11.pdf 21 September www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-21sep10p5.htm 19 October 2010 www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-19oct10p3.htm 1 June 2010 www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-01jun10p3.htm

• Council continues to educate residents on the importance of pruning their trees for the safety of the community with regular advertisements in Monash Bulletin

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http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-01jun10p3.htm�

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-01jun10p3.htm�

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10 April 2010 Footpath Trading story mentions ‘overhanging trees and shrubs’ www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-10apr10p5.htm

4.9 Council to continue to monitor, audit and respond to overhanging trees and branches in our parks, playgrounds and high traffic areas

On-going • Biennial pruning program for overhanging street trees

• Playground and high traffic reserve area trees regularly audited (currently every 18 months)

• Customer inquiries/requests responded to within 10 working days

• Council continue to run a full time pro-active program patrolling the municipality and issuing notices to residents where offending foliage is identified.

• Scheduled works completed. Biennial pruning to continue

• Further audits planned for 2012

• Council will continue to be responsible for overhanging vegetation from private properties over footpaths, roads and Council land.

• Council continues to conduct a pro-active program and respond to complaints within the 10 day response time. As part of the program Council also advertises within the bulletin about the need for residents to maintain their properties

4.10 Continue to ensure that Council’s public amenities are cleaned on a daily basis

On-going • 100% cleaning the public amenities daily

• Council continue to ensure that Council’s public amenities are cleaned on a daily basis

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-10apr10p5.htm�

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/news/bulletin2010/bulletin-10apr10p5.htm�

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5. Housing and Infrastructure

Objective: To promote independence and mobility and enhance opportunities that enable older adults to remain in their home

Action

Timelines

Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012

5.1 Council to investigate the development of a ‘Design Guide’ to assist in retrofitting existing suburban homes to make them age, green and maintenance friendly in partnership with the State and Federal Government

2010- 2014

• Council to further investigate resources and involvement for 2010 – 2012 timeframe.

• Urban Design is currently developing a project brief to scope the design issues to be addressed for retrofitting existing homes and potentially new homes. The implementation will be subject to State and Federal funding

5.2 Council will continue to provide support letters for additional aged care beds within the municipality targeted to specific needs

On-going • Ongoing as requested • Council continues to provide support letters for additional aged care beds within the municipality targeted to specific needs. Ongoing as requested

5.3

Council to review and update existing walking & cycling strategies to enhance active transport opportunities

On-going • To be completed in 2011 - 2012 • Draft Walking and Cycling Strategy is being developed.

5.4 Continue to participate in the Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC) whose major role is to advocate for increased public transport in the eastern region

On-going • Ongoing involvement. Council continues to participate in the Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC). Current focus – Rowville Rail Study soon to commence. ETC and City of Monash to be actively involved in the process

• Council continues to participate in the Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC). Current focus is the Rowville Rail Study ETC and City of Monash is actively involved in the process

5.5 Advocate to the State Government to provide a regular frequency of signalised pedestrian crossings in the vicinity of bus stops along arterial roads increasing accessibility for users.

On-going • Council continues to advocate directly with and through Vic Roads, State Government and the ETC to provide a regular frequency of signalised pedestrian crossings in the

• Council continues to advocate directly with and through Vic Roads, State Government and the ETC to provide a regular frequency of signalised pedestrian crossings in the vicinity of bus stops along arterial roads increasing accessibility for users.

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vicinity of bus stops along arterial roads increasing accessibility for users.

5.6 Monitor footpaths to ensure they are safe, accessible and well maintained in accordance with the Road Management Plan

On-going • Council continues to monitor and inspect footpaths in accordance with the Monash Road Management Plan (RMP). Any repairs undertaken are done so in accordance with the RMP

• Council officers continue to monitor and inspect footpaths in accordance with the Monash Road Management Plan (RMP), logging defects. Repairs are undertaken in accordance with the current RMP

5.7 Continue to upgrade public toilets via the installation of automatic unisex public toilets that are accessible and safe for all at appropriate sites

On-going • Ongoing with one automatic unisex unit installed at Brickmakers Park. The number of upgrades and installation of automatic unisex public toilets are dependent funding allocation.

• Toilet in Oakleigh Mechanics Hall has been upgraded and now compliant with DDA and a new unisex toilet was fitted at Poath Rd behind the activity centre

5.8 Council continues to provide a hard and green waste collection service annually, collected at the kerb side

Annually • The annual collection was undertaken in August and September 2010 and was a great success

• Council continues to provide a hard and green waste collection service, collected at the kerb side. The annual collection was undertaken in August and September 2011 and was a great success

5.9 MVRC to investigate the potential to increase community transport access and options to those over 65 years

2011-2012

• MVRC recently purchased new vehicle for City Hospital Service Launched in April 2011

• MVRC Community Transport Service expanded the transport service to include Social Activities

• MVRC plan to re-launch the service in 2012-2013 and consider the possibility of linking in with Travellers Aid to support the program

• MVRC continue to support and offer community transport service to include Social Activities

5.10 Continue to participate in the

Eastern Region Affordable Housing Alliance to advocate for senior housing

On-going • Advocacy during recent State Government Elections on broad housing issues

• Ongoing EAHA action of housing in the Eastern region

• Ongoing membership with the Eastern Affordable Housing

• Advocacy was undertaken during the election regarding broad housing issues

• Ongoing EAHA action of housing in the Eastern metropolitan region

• Ongoing membership with the Eastern Affordable Housing Alliance

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Alliance

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6. Communication and Information Objective: To enhance residents’ knowledge of services, programs and events through a range of

communication methods

Action Timeline Outcomes - July 2011 Current status – June 2012 6.1 Investigate opportunities to promote

the PALS program to the wider community to increase membership and email booklet to interested service providers

On-going

• Established partnership with the Monash Leader Newspaper to forward the PALS booklet. The newspaper will identify programs/topics of interest and run a community information editorial. In March 2011 they selected the ‘Mature Age Driver Refresher Lesson’ program and ‘Falls Prevention’. This increased media coverage resulted in greater exposure to the wider Monash Community

• Continue to work with PR and the Local media.

• PALS advertisement placed in the Weekly and Leader Newspaper on 30 May 2012 promoting the PALS program to the wider community resulting in a greater awareness across the community, measured with an increase in participation to Council organised information sessions - 34 attended the Public Transport Information session in May, 120 participants attended the Telstra Connected Seniors Program 8 June and over 50 attended the World Elder Abuse session 13 June

• PALS and PARG had a stall at the Clayton Community Festival and the Oakleigh Music Festival

6.2 Develop a ‘New PALS Member’ information pack that contains information on all of Councils services and programs of interest to older adults

2012 • To be investigated in 2011 – 2012 financial year

• All PALS members and new members are continually updated with programs, activities and news/information with each edition of the PALS booklet produced and distributed three times per year

6.3 Translating the PALS booklet into languages other than English to increase participation from the CALD community in the program

2012 • PALS booklet has been developed into a general, generic information flyer. Produced in the 8 main languages identified by the City of Monash. To be distributed at Council events, Seniors Festival events and

• Translated PALS flyers have been distributed at Council Festivals, PALS events and Seniors Festival Events

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circulated to specific groups/clubs.

6.4 Provide access to language services to ensure inclusion of CALD communities

On-going

• Interpreter service and translation of material offered for Seniors Outreach Exercise Program, Wiser Walkers Liver Longer program and other programs offered to the older adults community through PALS and Positive Ageing

• PALS general information Brochure translated and distributed

• Interpreter service available when required • Council Service Guide produced in eight

community languages and distributed throughout the community. This was launched in July 2011.

6.5 Develop a ‘Directory of Services for Older Adults’ booklet which would enable information on HACC services, residential care, Meals on wheels, Social groups and support services to be in an accessible and easy to use format. Printed bi-annually, subject to budget allocation

2011 - 2012

• This has been incorporated into the ‘Directory of Services’ as actioned in the Multicultural Action Framework Policy.

• HACC Services developed a Directory of Services Booklet, available to the community end June 2011

• Council continues to promote services where possible and distributes booklets and other information at festivals, events, and Council facilities. Information includes however not limited to : PALS Booklet, Council Services Guide, PARG Brochure and HACC Services Marketing material

6.6 Develop an ‘Older persons Hot Topics’ information sheet that will be available on Council’s website, service centres, libraries, neighbourhood houses etc, that will assist with answering commonly asked questions

2012 • The Positive Ageing Reference Group (PARG) has incorporated the ‘Hot Topics’ information into their new PARG web page on Councils website. There will be a range of links on the PARG page relevant to the ageing demographic i.e. Neighbourhood House, Home and Community Care, COTA

• PARG continue to identify Hot Topics and incorporate into the PALS program and Council web site, some topics have included; Men’s Health, Wiser Driver, Medication and You, Consumer Affairs – Scam Savvy, Hearing Awareness, World Elder Abuse Awareness day, Pedestrian Safety

6.7 Where practicable, utilise home carers to provide information to their clients on relevant Council activities and services and ensure that ‘Home Carers’ receive a copy

On-going

• PALS Winter program (June, July & August 2011) –200 extra booklets printed and distributed to Home Carers staff

• Home carers provide information to their clients on relevant Council activities and services and are distributing copies of the PALS booklet and other council documentation

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of the PALS booklet 6.8 Work in partnership with the

Greater Monash GP Network and run a targeted marketing campaign that encourages GP practices to sign up to receive copied of the PALS booklet for their waiting rooms

On-going

• GP network sent a copy of the PALS Booklet and other information to increase awareness of activities, programs and services available to our older adult community. The information pack is put together and posted quarterly to the GP who’s details are provided by the Greater Monash GP Network (approx 70 GP’s)

• Continue to work in partnership with the GP network and send copies of PALS

6.9 Continue to provide presentations to community groups and organisations, in regards to Home & Community Care services

On-going

• Ongoing – currently visiting community groups and seniors groups as invited/requested

• Ongoing – currently visiting community groups and seniors groups as invited/requested

• Presented to the Ethnic Seniors Forum in early 2012 on the Ethnic Meals program and HACC Services

6.10 Investigate the use of a Community Services email distribution list that residents can join in order to receive important information from Council in regards to services and events, including the PALS booklet

On-going

• Further investigation and resources required

• Further investigation and resources required

6.11 Continue to promote ‘Arts Life’ through Monash Public Libraries, Neighbourhood Houses, Service Centres and Councils website

On-going

• Quarterly mail out promoting Arts Life and MGA exhibitions and events through PALS database, Seniors Groups, GP Network, Neighbourhood Houses, Council Service Centres and, Monash Public Libraries

• Each quarter Arts Life is distributed to each of the Public Libraries, Neighbourhood Houses and Service Centres in Monash to be made available to patrons that visit and use these facilities.

• Each quarter Arts Life is posted on the Monash Arts and Cultural Development website http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/macd

• Each quarter Arts Life information is included in one form or another (either it being a leaflet or article in the PALS booklet advertising the upcoming edition and encouraging people to

http://www.monash.vic.gov.au/macd�

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join the mailing list) in the PALS database mail out.

6.12 Continue to provide advice and information on recycling, composting, energy and water saving measures

On-going

• Community workshops have been provided on: Energy Efficient Homes, Yummy Gardens and Fresh Clean Green

• Participated in the 2010 City of Monash Seniors Festival ‘Positive Ageing Expo’ as a stall holder, providing information and advice to participants on recycling, composting and other general waste information as requested

• Community education sustainable living workshops will be run in October/November

• Waste services provided information on waste and recycling to patrons of the Seniors Festival

• Lunchtime composting workshop planned for next month. Advertised through mail out to seniors and other channels.

1 ‘positive ageing action plan 2010 – 2014’ · positive ageing action plan 2010 – 2014,...

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