Goulburn Options is working strenuously to prepare its participants and families as COVID-19 continues to impact Victoria.
Chief executive Rosey Panelli says the staff of Goulburn Options have been pulling together as a very strong team.
“Everyone has been working pro-actively to adapt supports to suit constantly changing parameters of service delivery,” she said.
“Our work is often overlooked when essential services are mentioned but the workers in the disability sector are right in the frontline of care for vulnerable people.
“They are doing everything in their power to ensure quality care continues despite the challenges presented by the pandemic.”
Dr Panelli said even one-to-one service would become difficult to deliver in the coming weeks as families limited their social contact.
“As the public health messages have become stronger and the community has realised the gravity of the situation, we have had to suspend group programs and work towards an amended style of support,” she said.
“We are working to quickly establish strong links through internet options and supports around the provision of food.
“If we cannot be physically present to provide support, we are determined to provide encouragement and care through other means.
“Our private Facebook page has become quite a busy hub of input from Goulburn Options people sharing humour and reports on things they are doing to stay well and in touch with friends.”
Dr Panelli said caring for staff during the challenging time was crucial and giving people easy access to the flu vaccination had been a high priority.
“This year the clinic was run outdoors to facilitate social distancing and thanks to the beautiful Seymour autumn weather everything ran smoothly,” she said.
“The administration team of Goulburn Options would be working from home, but the organisation is still operating and can be contacted through the usual phone and email options.”
“It was sad to see the op shop close on March 21, but it was important to protect the well-being of volunteers and to support the public health strategies of ceasing non-essential services.
“I urge the community to embrace the preventative strategies being put in place to fight COVID-19 and work to protect the community of Seymour.”