The Gladstone Community Linking Agency (GCLA) has recently received additional funding from the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) to enhance aged care services in the Gladstone Region. This funding aims to address the increasing demand for aged care support in the area. GCLA will utilise the funding to provide a range of services, including CHSP overnight Cottage Respite, Flexible in-home Respite, Day Centre Respite, Nursing, and Allied Health Therapy services in the Fitzroy Aged Care Planning Region in Queensland.

Furthermore, the Department has granted one-time funding for the renovation of the Port Curtis RnR Centre and the implementation of Care at Home Smart Home Assistive Technology Alarms. These investments enable GCLA to expand its aged care services and establish clinical and allied health services. The primary objective is to enable seniors to maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes for a longer duration.

The overnight Cottage Respite service, funded through the CHSP, is scheduled to launch on July 1. This addition is particularly significant as there is a high demand for this type of respite in the local community. GCLA, as the only true local not-for-profit provider of Disability and Aged Care services in the Gladstone Region since 1977, is committed to supporting carers and ensuring they can continue their caring role for extended periods through planned respite services.

The Port Curtis Respite Centre currently operates from Tuesday to Friday, providing seniors aged 65 and above with a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can participate in social and recreational activities and enjoy delicious meals. Additionally, GCLA offers Home Care Packages to individuals residing in Gladstone, Turkey Beach, Miriam Vale, and Agnes Water.

The allocation of additional funding allows GCLA to expand its Aged Care services, complementing the existing Home Care Packages with the establishment of clinical nursing and allied health services. This holistic approach aims to support seniors in their evolving needs, fostering their well-being, and enabling them to age in place. Jenni, the CEO of GCLA, expressed her enthusiasm for the grant, emphasising how it will facilitate timely access to local clinicians through the rollout of nursing and allied health services.

To further enhance their services, GCLA is actively exploring local sponsorship opportunities to acquire three hybrid vehicles for their upcoming mobile nursing and allied health service, thus ensuring efficient and convenient care delivery.