BACKGROUND

Since 1987, ACES has been providing programs and services to Aboriginal Elders. ACES was incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act (1981) and have a Board of Management made up of elected community members.

In the Australian context, ACES is unique in being both Aboriginal-run and specialising in provision of both planned activity group and residential aged care services. At ACES culture is recognised as central to individual and community health. Further the integration of a range of programs on the site ensures continuity in the assessment and delivery of appropriate care to Aboriginal elders in a culturally appropriate environment as they age.

ENVIRONMENT

Amidst the hustle and bustle of East Brunswick, the Caring Place nestles in the serenity of lush, well maintained, bush-like gardens and the Merri Creek. The setting provides Residents with a friendly, relaxed culturally relevant home-like environment which is important to their health and well-being.

VISION STATEMENT

Our vision is to see the provision of ACES services continue to improve and expand through constant attention to high standards of service delivery that will be recognised throughout the community.

We will work to earn the respect of clients and their families and maintain a strong reputation within the Aboriginal community and the aged care industry sector. We will be known by our contribution to the quality of life of our clients.

We expect that one result of this will be and increased community demand for ACES services.

VALUES

• In safe and comfortable physical environments for those in need of residential care, or making use of the ACES facilities;
• maximising the independence of the client group especially as regards maintenance of family and community relationships;
• being respectful of client rights to privacy, dignity and confidentiality;
• valuing and fostering individual interests, customs and belief;
• providing high quality care and other services in a family home type environment that is welcoming of clients’ family members and friends as well as other community visitors.
• treating all clients with compassion and kindness

Purpose:

PAG (Planned Activity Group) Officer is responsible for the day to day implementation of the PAG Program based at East Brunswick and is under the direction of the PAG Manager.

The PAG Officer will assist with creating a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for clients and providing care and support to clients; setting up and running activities; encouraging client participation; care planning, assessments, Risk assessments and cultural plans, assistance with meals; assistance with transport and other duties as directed by the PAG Manager to ensure the program meets its objectives, in particular, meeting the needs of clients.

Support Elders to participate in programs that will both enhance their lives, and foster and support their independence.

Ensure that Elders receive quality, culturally appropriate and engaging services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Client Support

• Reporting and take direction from the PAG Manager in providing a comfortable, safe and welcoming environment for clients
• Ensure clients individual and cultural needs are attended to.
• Encourage client participation in the program planning and program by respecting individual’s culture, interests and abilities.
• Liaise with carers and other service providers as required regarding client needs
• Provide personal care and assistance to PAG clients as required
• Assist with mobility of clients during activities where required
• Assist with transport as required
• Monitor general health and status of clients
• Follow protocols for accidents/incidents
• Cleaning up after meals and tea breaks
• Assist the PAG Manager in developing and maintaining an environment that is cheerful, comfortable, safe, clean and hygienic.

Program Delivery:

• Ensure day to day implementation of the program, under the direction from the PAG Manager, including setting up of activities, running of activities, and completing attendance records etc.
• In conjunction with the PAG Manager contribute to the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of program activities.
• Participate in team meetings, staff and service development strategies

Participants’ Development and Safety

• Exhibit positive behaviour and non-judgmental manner
• Promote independence and self-esteem through encouraging participant decision-making
• Ensure materials and equipment used by participants are safe
• Develop and support a fun environment
• Provide personal care for participants as required
• Maintain an awareness of participants whereabouts during activities with a specified focus on outings, at all times, to ensure participant safety

Administration:

• Complete and maintain client and administrative records as directed by the PAG Manager.
• Advocacy for participant care planning, assessments, Risk assessments and cultural plans etc.

Other:

• Comply with the Code of Conduct; OHS; Equal Opportunity and other ACES policies and procedures.
• Contribute to relevant activities as directed by the PAG Manager.
• Undertake training and development in consultation with the PAG Manager.
• Demonstrated commitment to Occupational Health and Safety
• Submit accurate timesheets
• Attend staff meetings when required
• Respond to changes in support needs of Elders
• Staff and client confidentiality is to be monitored at all times.
• Contribute ideas and participate in strategies pertaining to continuous improvement
• Undertake other duties as directed from CEO

ACCOUNTABLITIES

• The PAG Officer will report to the PAG Manager.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and values.
• Ability to relate to Elders with a caring and respectful approach, in an equal and nonjudgmental manner.
• Possession of the following certificates or ability to complete recognised courses:
• Certificate 3 in Aged Care or Certificate 3 in HACC
• Current first aid certificate.
• Safe Food Handling certificate
• Relevant experience in the care of frail aged people, people with dementia or a disability
• Good communication skills including oral and written
• Ability to conduct; review and evaluate activities and programs
• Ability to work as part of a small team, within the framework of the philosophy and principles of ACES.
• Current Victorian drivers licence
• Appointment is subject to satisfactory completion of a police check

Desirable

• Additional relevant qualification in health services or aged care, e.g. Diversional Therapy certificate
• Knowledge of and experience in working with PAG

Ethical

• To treat all clients with dignity, privacy and confidentiality
• To work towards providing an enjoyable environment for supported clients
• Maintain harmonious relationships with all staff members
• Treat all client information as strictly confidential
• Treat all ACES Inc. information as strictly confidential
• Signing of this Position Description will be considered a binding confidentiality agreement

OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION:

To apply click Apply Now and follow the instructions.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo a Police check.

As a full time employee you will be entitled to salary packaging.

If you hold inquiries please contact email [email protected] using the subject line: Planned Activity Group Officer enquiry via EthicalJobs or 03 9383 4244.