Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service ... · Coffs Harbour Home Modification and...

October 29, 2018

Coffs Harbour Home Modification + Maintenance

Service Incorporated

Trading As, East Coast Accessibility Experts,

‘We would like to begin by acknowledging the

traditional custodians of the land we are meeting

on today, and pay our respects to their Elders

past, present and emerging. We also

acknowledge our gratitude that we share this

land today, our sorrow for some of the costs of

that sharing, and our hope and belief that we can

move to place of equity, justice and partnership

together.’

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS ANNUAL REPORT 2019 2

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated 12 September 1988, Associations Incorporation Act 1984 | Section 10 (1) in New South Wales |

Registered No : Y 05728-21 | Builders Licence No. 1541C

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated, Trading as, East Coast

Accessibility Experts was part of the Home and Community Care (HACC) Program and now part of

the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). Coffs Harbour Home Modification and

Maintenance Service Incorporated, Trading As, East Coast Accessibility Experts, is a Registered NDIS

Provider.

OUR BUSINESS

VISION

‘Enabling people to live safely and independently at home, and in their community the way they

choose’

VALUE PROPOSITION

VALUE

• Inclusive of all we do in our community

• Accountable for all our actions

• Responsive to the needs of all our stakeholders

• Flexible in our ideas and actions

• Open and transparent

• Respectful of all our clients, staff and those we come into contact with

• Ensuring quality assurance is at the core of all our work

• Advocates for our community and clients


OBJECTIVES

• Enable our elders and people with disabilities to have the choice to remain in their own

home by responsive, flexible and quality home design and retrofits, maintenance services

and home assessments carried out by Occupational Therapists;

• Be a best practice governance and risk management community-based organisation;

• Ensure sufficient financial strength, resources and accountability to build the capacity of

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated, Trading as, East

Coast Accessibility Experts;

• Be regarded as a best practice employer and contractor of choice.

CORE STRENGTHS

• 30+ years’ experience

• Best practice employer

• Contractor of Choice

• Continuous Improvement

• Compliance

• Quality Assurance and Management

• Financial Management

• Strategic Planning and Future Direction

• Key Performance Indicators

• Insurances

• Workplace, Health and Safety

LEGAL STATUS

Registered as an Incorporated Association Australian Charities and NFP Commission (ACNC).

GEOGRAPHIC FOOTPRINT

Coffs Harbour Local Government and outlying areas with an additional budget for Mid North Coast

| Red Rock to Gloucester.


Acknowledging the Gumbaynggir, Dunghutti, Worimi and Biripi nations, the

traditional owners of this Mid North Coast land on which we live and work.

Map photo …………………………………………………

ORGANISATION STRUCTURE

GOVERNANCE | Board of Management | 4 Executive Members, 3 Ordinary Members | delegate the

day to day running, operational activities and management of the organisation and staff to Chief

Executive Officer.

TEAM | Chief Executive Officer, Works Supervisor, Builders x 2, Carpenter, Handyman, Client Liaison

and Administration, Reception and Administration, Marketing Assistant.

PROJECTS |

MINOR MODIFICATION | installation to clinical specifications from Occupational Therapists, ie

grabrails, handrails, easy steps, access ramps, handheld shower and so much more.


COMPLEX MODIFICATION | Design, Scope of Works and installation with clinical specifications from

Occupational Therapists, ie bathroom, kitchen, ramps, lifts and more.

LOW LEVEL MAINTENANCE | priority on safety and access in and around the home ie, electrical,

plumbing, carpentry, yard care, guttering, garden re-design.

BEFORE AFTER

ALLIED HEALTH | Occupational Therapist in-home assessments | Home assessments to clinically

prescribe modifications designed to maintain independence and increase safety in and around the

home and/or workplace.

OUR SERVICE DELIVERY |

Chief Executive Officer | Shalla Thomas

Works Supervisor | David Reid


COFFS HARBOUR HOME MODIFICATION

AND MAINTENANCE SERVICE

INCORPORATED

Trading As

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS

ANNUAL REPORT 2019


TABLED AND PRESENTED ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

25 NOVEMBER 2019

Table of Contents

Agenda Previous Annual General Meeting Minutes 28 october 2018

Chairperson Report Treasurers Report Chief Executive Officer Report Introduction Service Staffing and Management Geographical Information Population Profile Service Delivery Service Constraints Overview of Services Provided Requests for Service Consumer Contributions Service Promotion Workplace Training and Education Community Development and Networking Service Monitoring and Service Evaluation Management Committee, Staff and Preferred Contractors Mid North Coast Home Modification Scheme - Level 2 Allied Health Project - Occupational Therapy Brokerage Conclusion Works Supervisor Report


COFFS HARBOUR HOME MODIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE SERVICE INC

Trading As, East Coast Accessibility Experts

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 25 NOVEMBER 2019

AGENDA

Welcome to Country

Welcome to Association Members:

Apologies:

MOTION 1:

Confirmation of Minutes of previous AGM 28 October 2018

Auditors Report, Euan Bloomer, Moore and Stephens

Financial Statements 30 June 2019

Any Questions?

MOTION 2:

Accept signed Audited Financial Statements 30 June 2019

MOTION 3:

Authority be given to Chairperson and Treasurer to complete and sign Annual Statement for ACNC.

MOTION 4:

Appointment of Auditors 2020

Election of Office Bearers and Board Members:

RETURNING OFFICER RESIDES FOR ELECTIONS:

Chairperson Vice Chairperson

Secretary Treasurer


3 x Ordinary Members –

MOTION 5:

All nominations be accepted

MOTION 6:

Authorized signatories for organisation 2020

MOTION 7:

Board of Management meetings for 2020

ext Meeting: Board Meeting 25 November 2019


COFFS HARBOUR HOME MODIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE SERVICE INCORPORATED

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES

Monday, 29 October 2018

MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD 29TH OCTOBER 2018 AT 5 DRUITT COURT, COFFS

HARBOUR

PRESENT

Paul Sekfy, Shalla Thomas, Terry Wilson, Emma Rhoades, Ken Craig, Donna Kerr, Stephanie Ring,

David Reid, Euan Bloomer (Auditor), Peter Lean (Returning Officer)

1. MEETING OPENING – 9.30am

1.1 Apologies: Nil

MOTION 1:

1.1 Confirmation of previous AGM minutes (20/11/17). Minutes tabled and accepted. Moved

Donna, seconded Paul

1.2 Auditor Report – presented by Euan Bloomer:

• Euan reported an unqualified opinion of financial reports for 2017/18.

• Revenue down slightly – due primarily to reduced state funding for under 65 yrs

clients and capping of major modifications, as was expected

• Cost of sales and expenses down also

• ECAE is in an overall solid financial position

• Balance Sheet – assets greater than liabilities which is positive

• Cash flow statement – positive and has increased over the year.

• MYOB is now locked so no changes can be made to transactions from previous

financial year

1.3 Auditor recommendations:

• Doubtful debts – the organisation can have an estimated percentage of funds for

doubtful debts based on historical events in financial statements;

• Signing of Minutes – minutes of meetings must be signed off each month to ensure best

practice

• Inventory pricing – value of stock on hand needs to be reviewed and updated

• GST adjustments – there was a change to a transaction in MYOB after the BAS was

completed and submitted. This issue has now been resolved.

MOTION 2:


Acceptance of signed financial statements 30 June 2018 – Paul Sekfy moved the acceptance of

auditors report and thanked Euan and his team for great work in completing the audit.

MOTION 3:

Annual Statement – Terry and Paul to sign off on the Annual Statement for ACNC. Euan thanks the

team and Board and takes leave from the meeting.

MOTION 4:

4.1 Appointment of Auditor 2019 – Moore & Stephens (previously DKM) to be retained as Auditor

for 2019. Moved by Paul.

4.2 Election of Board – Peter Lean advises that all applications and nominations have been

unchallenged, therefore Board of Management is as follows:

• Chairperson – Terry Wilson

• Vice Chairperson – Stephanie Ring

• Treasurer – Paul Sekfy

• Secretary – Donna Kerr

• General Members – Ken Craig and Emma Rhoades.

Board thanks Peter for his role as Returning Officer, Peter takes leave from the meeting.

MOTION 5:

Authorised Signatories – Existing signatories are Terry, Donna, Paul, Shalla and David. Board agreed

to maintain existing signatories.

MOTION 6:

Future Board Meetings – dates for 2019 meetings tabled as part of Annual Report. Board agreed to

change July 2 meeting to August 19, and change September 23 meeting to October 21.

MEETING CLOSED: 10.14AM



CHAIRPERSONS REPORT

AGM 25 November 2019


Chairperson Report

Once again, I take great pleasure writing this report for 2018/19 on behalf of the Board of

East Coast Accessibility Experts. This year has seen a time of consolidation of the service

with the continuing roll out of the NDIS, continuation of My Aged Care changes, financial

and IT.

The Board operates from a governance and values framework and consists of dedicated

skilled professionals. This year, the Board has ensured that robust mechanisms are in

place and reported on throughout the organisation to fulfil our obligations in ensuring the

organisation is:

• Legislatively compliant,

• Acting ethically, and

• Financially viable

The Board has supported the organisation’s continuing investment in information

technology to enhance productivity and streamlining processes including improvements to

our operating platform and financial systems. We have undertaken a review and update of

our strategic plan and associated processes to help guide us into the future

As the Chairperson, I extend my sincere appreciation to the members of our Board who

voluntarily and generously give of their time and expertise. I also extend our gratitude to the

hard working staff of the organisation who achieve such great community and client

outcomes, particularly our CEO Shalla Thomas and the great team that supports her.

The work of the Board will continue into the next year to ensure we continue to be a thriving

and positive social enterprise into the future.

TERRY WILSON

CHAIRPERSON


East Coast Accessibility Experts

Treasurers Report



Treasurers Report

From the ashes of the recent bushfires I deliver a brief synopsis of our current position |

• The organisation continues to perform financially

• Business activity is going well

• Prudent Management

• Modest surplus

• Able to make strategic decisions that can be financially supported

• Healthy attitude to risk

• Strong strategic framework

PAUL SEKFY

TREASURER


East Coast Accessibility Experts

Chief Executive Officer Report



INTRODUCTION

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated 21 September 1988.

Trading As, East Coast Accessibility Experts is a not for profit community based organisation,

receiving recurrent funds from Commonwealth Department of Health for service types home

modification, home maintnenance and allied health, provided to over 65/50 ATSI.

East Coast Accessibility Experts provide quality home design for participants of the National

Disability Scheme, Department of Veteran Affairs, Home Care Package Providers and iCare

“East Coast Accessibility Experts,

not for profit community service providing easy,

affordable, solutions for living at home”

FUNDING RECEIVED FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1 JULY 2018 – 30 JUNE 2019

Funding Source Value | 2018 Value | 2019 Percentage

Commonwealth Department of

Health Minor Mods 216,559 430,883 40


Health Maintenance 181,270 181,957 17


Health Major Mods 310,239 377,133 35


Health Allied Health 85,010 85,305 8

Total Recurrent Funding 2018 - 913,301 1,075,278 100


2019

Client Contributions 238,693 222,899 34

Commercial Enterprise 469,608 287,891 43

National Disability Insurance

Scheme 2,251 152,197 23

710,552 662,987 100

IMPACT REPORT |

There is widespread international evidence of the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of low level

intervention programmes such as the Home and Community Care (HACC) / Commonwealth Home

Support (CHSP) programme, which enable older people to stay in their homes for longer.

Fundamentally, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was set up to allow people with

disability to live “an ordinary life”: to fully realise their potential, to participate in and contribute to

society, and to have a say in their own future – just as other members of Australian society do.

These aims are embedded in the legislation which established the Scheme, the National Disability

Insurance Scheme Act 2013 , and taken up by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA)

Strategic Plan 2013-20162 . The Strategic Plan points out that achievement of Scheme goals “will

require regular reviews of the NDIA’s own performance and a culture of continuous learning”.

Given the Scheme’s focus on the individual, these reviews must measure the extent to which the

individual goals, needs and choices of each participant are being met, as well as the impact of the

Scheme on the wellbeing of families and carers. In other words, we need a way of measuring

individual outcomes for participants, their families and carers

To meet the needs of our elders and younger people with disabilities, including their carers, we

provide some 1100 - 1500 modification and maintenance episodes for our elders, with some 38

participants in receipt of quality complex modification enabling safe living at home

Our Modification prescriptions and designs are to meet individual needs, achieving increased

independence, freedom and safety, enabling you to live safely and independently at home and in


your community the way you choose. Some 57 hours of at- home assessments were completed

during the year by Occupational Therapists clearly stating a demand for modification with waitlists

in health.

Post fall is a common pathway of, fear of falling, reduced activity, de-conditioning, leading to an

increase risk of falls.

Our outcomes for recipients of home modification, maintenance, and at home assessments, is

enabling and wellness. Prevention of falls, reducing incidents of hospital admissions and any future

falls risks.

The lesson for the organisation is to assist our elders to access MAC and our service types, making it

as streamline as possible. To engage with Local Area Coordinators and Plan Managers for younger

people with disabilities assisting with quality modification requirements for people with disabilities

to be included in their plans.

Making the process of minor and/or complex modification as streamline as possible and sign off on contractor works with a phone call and/or consumer feedback form.

• Ensure timely closure on all jobs big and small

• Cost of work and financially disadvantaged

• Consider contractor fees and client contribution passed on to financially disadvantaged

• Ensure all work on Service Agreement/contract is completed


CLIENT TESTIMONIAL |

WHAT WE DO AND WHY WE DO IT

So, for ‘ageing-in-place’ to be a reality it is evident that a significant amount of work, encompassing

both accessibility and housing condition issues, is required. Experience of the project team indicate

that the accessibility issues noted are endemic to Australia’s existing housing stock. This is

particularly problematic given that 35.9% of Australia’s 8.9 million households include a person

with disability, 12.5% of Australians under 65 live with disability compared to 50.7% of those 65 and

over and 2 in 5 people with disability are 65 or older. But if, in line with government policy and

their own desires, older Australians wish to age-in-place where will assistance come from, in what

form, and how much is enough?

The issues identified in the cast study indicate that retrofitting will be difficult, and thereby costly,

particularly if all that is necessary is undertaken. Self-financing home renovations will not be an

option for many, and so some form of national scheme will be required.

Cooperation, collaboration, and a clear recognition of the emotional, physical, and economic cost-

benefit of ageing in place will be needed to rebuild Australia’s housing stock to better accommodate

all inhabitants throughout life.

(Source | Mary Ann Jackson, FRAIA, Managing Director, Accessibility Specialist, Architect, Planner and Access

Consultant, Visionary Design Development Pty Ltd)


MINOR AND MAJOR MODIFICATION PROJECTS

East Coast Accessibility Experts provide minor and complex home design and retrofits, to our

elders, people with disabilities and their carers, enabling them to live more independently and

safely in their own homes, the way they choose, and enabling access to their community. The

major emphasis is on maintaining safety, preventing accidents and adaptation to changing

circumstances. Home design and retrofits will include, and not be limited to, installation of grab

rails and handheld showers, handrails, access wedges, door widening, furniture adjustments, lever

taps, bidet, bathroom modification, kitchen modification, easy steps and ramps

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated, as auspice for The Mid

North Coast Home Modification Scheme L2 project, is the budget holder for complex home design

across the Mid North Coast, ie Gloucester in the South to Coffs Harbour in the North.


LOW LEVEL MAINTENANCE PROJE CT

Low level maintenance project provides a lawn mowing service, one off yard clean up and

gardening for safe access purposes.

Low level maintenance project engages specialist trades ie plumbers and electricians to ensure our

clients can stay at home in a safe and accessible environment. This may also include

fixing/replacing faulty wiring, replacement of hot water service, repairing/replacing entry/exit

steps/ramps. All building and carpentry requirements can be met with our experienced tradesmen.

ALLIED HEALTH PROJECT

The Allied Health Project, engaging private provider Occupational Therapy services, a brokerage

model of service delivery providing clinical prescriptions for minor and major modification design

for individual needs. Occupational Therapist and Builder will do joint visits to ensure best outcomes

for complex modifications, the built environment, your home, your care base.


EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS STRATEGIC PRIORITIES 2018-

2020

KEY RESULT AREA 1:

GOVERNANCE AND EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

Strategic Objective 1:1 Legal Status Strategic Objective 1:2 Financial Status Strategic Objective 1:3 Organisation Structure Strategic Objective 1:4 Reporting

KEY RESULT AREA 2:

ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT + PARTNERSHIPS

Strategic Objective 2:1 Promotion and Marketing

Strategic Objective 2:2 Community Engagement

Strategic Objective 2:3 Consumer Information Strategic Objective 2:4 Local Government Partnerships Strategic Objective 2:5 Partnerships | Affordable + accessible housing options Strategic Objectiv3 2:6 Regional Budget Holder


DISABILITY INCLUSION AND ACCESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Coffs Harbour City Council Disability Inclusion and Advisory Committee works collaboratively with Coffs Harbour City Council in

the development and implementation of strategies which aim to ensure that the local government area becomes an accessible

community for all people.

The committee meets on the first Friday of the month at Coffs Harbour City Council Chambers. For more information or to enquire

about membership of the Committee please call 02 6648 4041.


KEY RESULT AREA 3:

SERVICE AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Strategic Objective 3:1 NDIS low cost modification

Strategic Objective 3:2 Equipment and Assistive Technology Strategic Objective 3:3 Garden Redesign Strategic Objective 3:4 Social Support Strategic Objective 3:5 Regional Footprint Strategic Objective 3:6 Affordable access housing options

KEY RESULT AREA 4:

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Strategic objective 4:1 In-house Occupational Therapist Project Strategic Objective 4:2 Staff Development Strategic Objective 4:3 Internships

KEY RESULT AREA 5:

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

Strategic Objective 5:1 Outcome Measurement

Strategic Objective 5:2 Information Technology

Strategic Objective 5:3 Policies and Procedures


SERVICE STAFFING AND MANAGEMENT

The Board of Management consists of 7 active members and meet bi -monthly to discuss

Governance issues, ensuring the ongoing accountability to community, target group, funding body

and staff. The Board of Management has a Strategic Plan for the 2018-2020 period. The

implementation of this plan is the responsibility of both the Board of Management and Chief

Executive Officer. A Business Plan (Appendix 1) has been developed from the Strategic Plan, and is

implemented and reviewed by CEO, and reported to Board of Management. A Finance and Risk

Management Plan has been formulated and will be reviewed 6 monthly. The Strategic Plan is

currently under review and will be published as part of 2020 Annual Report.

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS CURRENT MEMBERSHIP

• Jobs Australia • National Disability Services

• Housing Industry Association • NSW Uni Information Clearing House • Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce • NSW HMMS State Council, MOD.A

• Northern Region Construction Network Group • Disability Organisations

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated, Trading As East Coast

Accessibility Experts provides service to residents living within the Coffs Harbour Local Government

area ;

• North to and Including Red Rock

Board of Management

Building Supervisor

Builders x 2 Carpenter HandymanClient Liaison + Administration

Reception + Administration

Marketing Assistant

CEO


• West to and Including Glenreagh and Ulong

• South to the Raleigh Bridge

Best found Regional map (Photo) regional map

POPULATION PROFILE

Australia’s population is set to change substantially over the next 50 years, with around one in four Australians being 65 years or older by 2056, according to the latest population projections released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). These projections are based on a series of assumptions that take into account recent trends in fertility, mortality and migration.

Year 65-69 70-74 75-79 80-84 85-89 90-94 95-99 100 +

over

2017 1193482 957987 677065 469176 307755 144557 36786 3857

2018 1207362 1016829 699548 484780 308767 148583 39030 4804

2019 1225901 1056600 732644 503145 310974 151417 41424 5378

2020 1244381 1094697 767432 523393 313208 155226 43171 6275

The number of people aged 65 years or over is 15.7% of the total population.

There were notable differences in the rates of disability in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander and non-Indigenous populations:

COFFS HARBOUR LGA

People | Male 12,223 (47.5%) | Female 13,529 (52.5%) | ATSI 1,430 (5.6%)

Over 65’s 22.3% ATSI 5.6% | Male 45.4% | Female 54.6% | Median Age 22

Widowed 7.8%

Home Ownership | 32.6%

Renters | 40.3%


Median weekly income | Household $1,023

Internet accessed from dwelling | 79%

The population of the Mid North Coast Region, as well as the Coffs Harbour LGA, is ageing more

rapidly than in the State as a whole, reflecting its continued popularity as a destination for retirees.

In terms of numbers Hastings, Coffs Harbour and Taree will have the most aged people by 2026,

consequently likely to experience greater pressures on aged care facilities and services than the

State as a whole. The anticipated higher concentrations of older residents will have implications for

the provision of government services (eg health services) for these and surrounding communities.

East Coast Accessibility Experts has provided many complex home design and retrofits for residents

of Limetree Village, Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour, an indication the mobile home style of

retirement is not necessarily meeting the functional needs of residents as they age in place.

SERVICE DELIVERY

East Coast Accessibility Experts is currently funded (for over 65/50 ATSI only) to provide minor and

complex home design and retrofits, low level maintenance, lawn mowing/gardening and Allied

Health - Occupational Therapist services. The emphasis is on safety, accessibility, preventing

accidents and adaptation to changing circumstances, continuing to embrace the wellness, re -

ablement and restorative models of service delivery.

Home design and retrofit work is accepted on the recommendations and clinical prescriptions of

our professional partners, Occupational Therapists, major work includes a joint home visit with

Builder to establish structural potential for recommendations made, achieving best outcomes for

client and carer. From 1 July 2015 all referrals come through the My Aged Care (MAC) service

provider portal.


For younger people with disabilities the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Portal was

activated and referrals come from referring Occupational Therapists and Plan Managers, with joint

visits between participant, referring Occupational Therapist and Builder to provide best home

design and retrofit for a more independent, accessible, living, working and/or studying space.

‘The costs of inaccessible housing are wide-ranging and significant. They include: the costs of

residential care that could otherwise be avoided; levels of social care that could be reduced or

removed; impacts on independent living, employment and social life; falls and other accidents which

can be life-changing or fatal; mental health impacts; impacts on general health; avoidable hospital

admissions; increased stays in hospital due to lack of accessible housing to return to (‘bed-

blocking’), etc’

SERVICE CONSTRAINTS

East Coast Accessibility Experts is a registered provider for the NDIS and no longer receives

recurrent funding to provide service subsidy for younger people with disabilities.

For those participants unable to access NDIS or still transitioning to NDIS, the cost of work to be

carried out, could be covered with a no interest loan and payment plan.


Recurrent funding for over 65/50’s no longer meets the demand for Low Level Maintenance,

including lawn mowing, and the demand for Allied Health for occupational therapy at home

assessments is higher than current funding allocations.

The biggest drawer for the allied health budget is Hastings, Coffs Harbour and Great Lakes, in line

with the growth areas identified in statistical data. The administration of both lawn mowing and

allied health projects is time consuming in relation to reportable responsibilities to funding bodies.

The Voucher system has proven to be a more cost effective model for lawn mowing service, providing clients with choice of contractor from a preferred list of providers. After the annual

review of the project, clients are now provided with a booklet of 10 vouchers value $25 each with the balance for service to be paid directly by the elder, to the contractor.

This model has increased capacity for an additional 60 clients who now receive the lawn mowing

service.


WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2019

RAISING AWARENESS OF BRAND ‘EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS’

Our Community has become familiar with East Coast Accessibility Experts as the service they come

to for quality home design and retrofitting.

30 YEARS CELEBRATION

What an achievement | the service has grown from a funded small maintenance service, to a

medium size community service focusing on home design and retrofitting, meeting the demand and

still providing the maintenance service and additional in home assessments with Occupational

Therapists. We are a proud team happy in our work for our community and sharing the experience

with our community.


`

SENIORS FESTIVAL

How we love to celebrate our elders, their stories, their experience and their exuberance in living a

good life, an inspiration to us all as we invent new ways to celebrate and honour.


STRENGTH AND BALANCE CLASSES

Ruth Anne is a fabulous and fun leader of our classes, the participants love her energy, music and

humour. We have a committed group attending Tuesdays and Fridays and will always consider

growth and focus groups for particular needs.

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISAB ILITY

What a wonderful way to celebrate the ability of people with disabilities. We are honoured to be able to

celebrate and support activities and access opportunities.

WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY (WEAAD)


An unfortunate part of our society today, important to raise awareness and provide opportunities

for safe sharing, and creating a wellness approach to supporting elders.

OUR CORE VALUES MET

1. EFFECTIVE|

East Coast Accessibility Experts provides programs and services, of the highest quality at a reasonable cost, making a difference in the lives of individuals. Aspirations of timely service

provisions is regularly monitored.

2. RELIABLE|

Resilient and able to demonstrate staying power in good and bad times; operate in a trustworthy and accountable manner

Effective

Reliable

Responsible

Enriching

Caring


3. RESPONSIBLE|

Respond to client needs, goals and aspirations in a consumer directed care environment; meet the

needs of the market; pursue innovation in a housing shortage environment explore small accessible

housing design and options. Community engagement from all staff members and Social

Investment Policy relating to our core business and community need.

4. ENRICHING|

Provide opportunities for people to learn and grow in the built environment, with the freedom and independence for staying in their home, as dictated in goals and aspirations in our elder

environment and choice and control for younger people with disabilities as participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme environment. Creating safe space for our elders and younger

people with disabilities to enjoy Strength and Balance Classes twice per week.

5. CARING|

Listen, respond and provide services at reduced costs to disadvantaged populations, as the service type, a natural wellness and re-ablement environment, consumer directed care environment,

choice and control and reasonable and necessary.

BALANCE AND STRENGTH CLASSES

Tuesday and Friday classes for all levels of fitness, as gentle exercise classes to increase muscle strength, flexibility and fitness, improve balance, concentration and memory, and stimulate

digestion. The benefits for our client group has more than proven itself with the increased fitness levels of participants, they love their classes each week and we may need to add a third class to

meet the demand. Our brilliant facilitator, Ruth Anne Treibner does occassionally take a holiday so in her absence we invited a guest speaker, Jacqui Bruce, Coffs Coast Foot Clinic, who was very well

received, with lots of questions from our engaged participants.

FACEBOOK | SOCIAL MEDIA INTEGRATION

Analysis shows our facebook page is currently a close third with local service providers in likes and daily activity views, building a strong, relevant online presence. Greg manages our page, providing an excellent range of posts relating to our elders and younger people with disabilities. Views to our

posts range between 60 – 90,000, an excellent result.


MONTHLY NEWSLETTERS

Providing information on modification, forums, training and the bigger picture. Our current

subscribers to our newsletters is 237. Our newsletter is available in hard copy and online, also

shared to our Facebook page and emailed, broadening our audience.

SOCIAL IMPACT INVESTMENT

East Coast Accessibility Experts has put Commercial Enterprise funds to work by selecting social

investments during the year. We negotiated with Coffs Harbour Community Garden to create

accessible spaces, funds being in reserve to be allocated as the ideal project is commenced.

Donations to our Firefighters and Paramedics to enhance ability to provide ongoing excellent

community service.

Staff member, Daniel Stewart was given funds to support his community engagement with

Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club, these funds are to go to a sun safety project.

East Coast Accessibility Experts purchased water bottles for our students from diverse backgrounds

as a safe way to intake water, not something they have been used to from birthplaces. These

formed part of gift bags for some 300 students during Harmony In Health Expo 2019.


OVERVIEW OF SERVICE PROVISION

News: by Linda Belardi1

‘Australian-first research has shown that modifying the home of a community care client can reduce

the need for care by an average of 42% and lead to a 40% improvement in a person’s quality of life

and demonstrated the significant role home modifications can play in not only supporting, but

substituting for care, and in a restorative approach’.

Our wellness and enabling program providing some individuals service to support the achievement

of their goals and aspiration of living at home with freedom, independence, safety, confidence, and

improved mobility at home and in the community.

WHAT DO INDIVIDUALS WANT:

#value for money; best outcome; staying at home; emotional wellbeing; good design; networks; partnerships; efficiencies.

1 Home Modifications reduce reliance on care: study Dr Phillippa Carnemolla, AAA Community Care Review


WHAT DO ELDERS AND PARTICIPANTS NEED:

#value for money; meet demand; remain at home safely; low hospital admission; low residential admission; accessibility; adaptability.

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS PRODUCT BENEFITS:

#trust, safety and comfort, promote independence; safely navigate the home, enhanced wellness

perform tasks better, social participation, value add to property; manage activities of daily living;

live a longer, healthier life; decrease risk of falls, cost savings; maintain sense of dignity; reduce

excess disability; slows functional dependence; reduce costs of personal assistance; prevent

accidents.

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS PRODUCT FEATURES:

#quality home design; quality trades; primary focus people living at home; ageing in place; working

with occupational therapists; working with Aus/NZ Standards 1428; individual design; identify

hazards; accessibility; adaptability; universal design; visibility; house maintenance; environmental

support; quick and affordable; professionally constructed; staff qualifications; staff experience;

home as the care base, social inclusion.


CLIENTS UNDER 65/50’S

67 Participants have received home design and retrofitting services through their NDIS Plans, complex and minor home design and retrofitting, and the demand for quotation continues to grow and the complexity is an ongoing challenge and solution focus for best outcomes for participants,

our construction team are great problem solvers.

CLIENTS OVER 65/50’S

4,333 clients received minor, complex home design and retrofitting services, low level maintenance

services and Allied Health Assessments during the year 1 July 2018 – 30 June 2019.

UNDER AND OVER 65/50 ’S ALLIED HEALTH OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN THE HOME

301 Clients received a minimum of one Occupational Therapist assessment in the home with

prescription for home design and retrofitting, minor or complex for the period 1 July 2018 – 30 June

2019.


Consumers who receive service from East Coast Accessibility Experts are in negotiations to

contribute toward the cost of work done, this will include material costs, contractor costs and

hourly labour charge. The organisation client contributions are in line with Commonwealth Fee

Framework. If clients are financially challenged then further negotiations will be entered into for

payment plans over a period of time, this ensures client home design/retrofitting and maintenance

needs are met with cost effective solutions. This solution is essentially a no interest loan to our

elders with a period no longer than 24 months.

DATA FROM CIVICRM

Type Funded Jobs

Maintenance $210,232 3676

Complex and Minor

Modification $1,008,067 356

Allied Health $86,261 301

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

In looking at Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2019 a monthly review of budgeted figures to actuals will occur, in particular |Marketing

Operational Expenses will be monitored during the year.

All outstanding invoices (12 months +) over $1,000 will be referred to Bonville Legal Service.

Client Contributions are regularly monitored to ensure assistance can be provided if problems with

payment plan and/or extension of time to pay.

Yearly budget has been prepared and was tabled at the Board Meeting of 23 September 2019 and

was adopted by the board to be reviewed February 2020.


SERVICE PROMOTION AND MEMBERSHIP

East Coast Accessibility Experts has a website, facebook page, twitter and instagram, expo collateral

promotional bags and display table with a focus on environmentally friendly contents, ie keep me

cups and native plant tubes.

A Community Partners Booklet continues to act as an education tool for providers on the scope of

work carried out by East Coast Accessibility Experts and why.

Videos and client testimonials have been created by ‘Little Stories’ with expansion to available

platforms for use ie cinema, television, website, Youtube etc.

Community Aged Care Network Meetings a large forum of new and existing package provider

organisations, health services and other community services.

Guest speaking engagements are carried out during the year by Client Liaison, ie Parkinsons Group;

Dementia Support Groups.

EXPOS ATTENDED THIS YEAR

• Positive Healthy Ageing Expo (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, WEAAD)

• Living Well Expo

• Harmony in Health Expo

MEMBERSHIPS

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Inc has numerous memberships,

enhancing ongoing networking and positive partnerships with the following organisations:

• Mid North Coast Home Modification Scheme Level 2

• MOD.A (Home Modification Australia)

• Mid North Coast Local Health District – Aged Care Services

• Upper Mid North Coast Prevention of the Abuse of Older People Collaborative


• NSW Meals on Wheels Association

• Council of the Ageing (COTA)

• Mid Coast Communities

• Housing Industry Association (HIA)

• Jobs Australia

• Northern Region Construction Group

• National Disability Service

• Disability Surfers

• Online Inclusion

• Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce

• Linked to Life

• Coffs Harbour Support Services

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service, through the CEO, and other staff

where possible, consider networking an integral part of ensuring service continues to operate at a

high level and is widely exposed to consumer groups, other community services, other Home Help

and Disability services and the broader community with representation locally, regionally and state-

wide

• Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, CHCC

• MNC Home Modification Scheme Level 2 Coffs Harbour Representative, Co-ordinator and

Minute Taker

• Volunteering Coffs Harbour Board Member

• Community Aged Care Network Meetings

• World Elder Abuse Awareness Local Committee

• Northern Region Construction Group Coordination

• Living Well and Harmony in Health Expos Organisation Committee

• Coffs Harbour Support Services Board Member

• Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce

• Education and Information Presentations | Community Groups

WORKPLACE TRAINING AND EDUCATION

STAFF TRAINING COMPLETED:

Orientation new team members Workplace, Health and Safety Access Consultancy Certificate IV Building and Construction Certificate IV Marketing Webinars


RSA How to Win Tenders NDIS Essential Briefings Sales and Marketing Webinars

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT MANDATORY TRAINING COMPLETED:

Orientation for new members

Good Governance

Better Boards Conference

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Opportunities sought to advocate for the needs of consumers also identifying and developing

resources needed to further meet those needs, locally, regionally and state-wide, by participating in

the following:

• Community Aged Care Network Meetings, Coffs Harbour Health Campus

• Northern Region Construction Group conferences

• Coffs Harbour HMMS auspices MNC Home Modification Scheme L2

• Consultation groups, locally, regionally and state-wide

• Upper Mid North Coast Prevention of the Abuse of Older People Collaborative

• Coffs Harbour Support Services Board Member

• Volunteering Coffs Harbour Board Member


Team Members are also involved in Community Engagement in the following groups/organisations

on a voluntary basis |

• Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company Board Member

• Airforce Cadets

• Oztag

• Bomas Group

• Volunteer Marine Rescue

• Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Member

• Woolgoolga Fire Brigade Leader

• Coffs Pipe Band Member

• Hospital Volunteer Information Desk

SERVICE MONITORING

NDIS Audit Stage 1 and Stage 2, completed successfully through BSI.

Service User Feedback is sought with a review of survey format to identify wellness and reablement

outcomes post home design and retrofit and/or maintenance.

Commonwealth Department of Health has introduced a new reporting agenda | Wellness Reports

to be lodged annually.

East Coast Accessibility Experts CEO reports against the 2018-2020 Strategic Plan with a new

planning phase to be commenced in January 2018 and completed May 2018 for a 2 year plan 2018

– 2020. Two year plan and reporting mechanism are now in place reportable to Board Meeting.

Future directions as part of Strategic Plan review has gone into action with consultants Kemj, Board

of Management, Staff and Stakeholders, outcomes as Strategic expansion and organisation

structure.

East Coast Accessibility Experts have bi-monthly Board of Management meetings, held the fourth

Monday of every second month.


Toolbox Talks, Operational Meetings and Team Meetings are held monthly with a solution focus on continuous improvement and quality management and Workplace Health and Safety.

Quality Management Meeting Annually with review at 6 months. Current Quality Management

mapping in place with improvements to be implemented over the next 6 months completion date

May 2020.

POLICY DEVELOPMENT

• NDIS Quality Practice Standards

• NDIS Code of Conduct

• Aged Care Quality Standards

• Whistleblower Policy

• CEO Review Policy

• Privacy Policy

• Conflict of Interest Policy

• Demand Capacity Management

• Chart of Delegations review and update

• Reportable Incident Reporting Policy

• Quality Management Mapping

• Financial Management Procedure update

SERVICE EVALUATION 2019

Satisfaction with Voucher System, feedback on contractor choice and work practices, quality of

work completed. Conclusion is clients are very happy with the new voucher system, also

opportunity for choice of lawn mowing contractors selected on the approved list. Allocation of

vouchers was reviewed during the year based on actual use of vouchers. It was deemed to be

excessive allocation and vouchers were cut back, most service users OK with this and realised it was

a service type to be delivered across as many people as possible. This enabled wait list to be

reduced. Budget is still not meeting the current demand. CEO lodged an application for

Commonwealth Home Support Program Innovation Funding and was successful in receiving

$100,000 for ‘Pathways to Wellness’ a project to reduce the need for lawn mowing and introducing

garden redesign.


Service has successfully completed NDIS Audit Stage 1 and Stage 2 with BSI, this will be repeated in

2020 and again in 2021.

CEO currently reviewing policy and procedure in line with Aged Care Quality Standards and NDIS

Practice Standards.

SUMMARY

The analysis of questionnaires undertaken for Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance

Service Inc, Trading As, East Coast Accessibility Experts, seeking feedback from service users in

relation to work requested, work completed, satisfaction with quality and cost of work, work still

needed, how well have we met the need for safety and access of our target group, frail aged,

people with disabilities and their carers living independently in the community. A testament to the

work completed by East Coast Accessibility Experts is in client testimonials included in our social

impact statement.


EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS MAJOR ASSETS 2019

Vehicle Purchase Year Purchase Price 2018 Value 2019 Value

Mazda CX-5 10/4/2017 $34,990.00 $26,243.00 $19,682

Izuzu 6/2016 $40,179.35 $26,368.00 $19,776

Izuzu 9/10/2016 $41,448.00 $24,092.00 $18,069

$116,617.35 $76,703.00 $57,527.00


Commercial Property Cash Purchase Sept 2012 $435,991.00

Fit Out Contractors Nov 2012 – August 2018 $126,257.00

Office Equipment Suppliers 2012 - 2017 $ 72,381.00

Tools + Equipment Suppliers 2010 - 2017 $40,368.00

$674,997.00

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT 2018

Management Committee as nominated at Annual General Meeting of 29 October 2018

Member Role

Terry Wilson Chairperson

Stephanie Ring Vice Chairperson

Donna Kerr Secretary

Paul Sekfy Treasurer

Ken Craig Member

Emma Rhoades Member

Kim Connolly Member


OPERATION AND CONSTRUCTION STAFF

Staff Role Hours

Shalla Thomas CEO full time

David Reid Works Supervisor full time

Drew Armitage Builder full time

Daniel Curzon Builder full time

Daniel Stewart Carpenter full time

Geoff Rogers Handyman part time

Alison Henery Client Liaison + Administration full time

Michelle Egan Reception + Administration full time

Greg Murray Marketing Assistant part time

STAFF LEAVE ENTITLEMENTS AT 30 JUNE 2019

Staff Annual leave is being monitored to ensure no more than 6 weeks leave owing at any one time, in the

best interests of wellbeing and productivity.

PREFERRED CONTRACTORS 2019

Plumber Paul Thomas

Plumber Laser Plumbing


Electrician Re-Action Installation

Electrician Eli Bailey Electrical

Steel Fabrication N-Mack Engineering

Concrete River2Coast

Waterproofing Termimesh

Painting M + K Hennessy

Asbestos Removal Coffs Harbour Demolitions

Tiler Andrew Dent

Plasterer Kevin Cecil

Complex Project Management C J Reid Builder

Builder Colin Makinson


MID NORTH COAST HOME MODIFICATION SCHEME LEVEL 2

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service Incorporated, Trading As, East Coast Accessibility

Experts, is the auspice for Mid North Coast Home Modification Scheme Level 2.

Social Purpose:

‘The service will act as the Area Fund-holder, for Mid North Coast Commonwealth Home Support Program

funded Home Modification & Maintenance Services, contracting to carry out home modification work greater

than or equal to $5,000 ($7,500 if local service can resource) and are less than or equal to $20,000 ($25,000 if

Mid North Coast budget can resource).

This project has long established links with all Home Modification and Maintenance Services and Department

of Health staff and private providers, in particular, Occupational Therapists, to facilitate timely and appropriate

home modifications for target group.

This project has demonstrated innovation and flexibility in the role as area fund-holder and provided an effective

and efficient model of service delivery.’

Under the Commonwealth Home Support Program modification has been capped at $10,000 service subsidy.

This cap has reduced the demand for complex modification for the over 65/50’s. The review process will continue

for the under 65/50’s until such time as the roll out of the NDIS in 2016 and 2017 for this region.


COMPLEX MODIFICATION BUDGET DISTRIBUTION 1 JULY 2018 – 30 JUNE 2019

HMMS Value 2018 Value 2019 Percentage

Coffs Harbour 69,535 59,137 31

Nambucca 21,265 13,978 7

Macleay 9,541 12,581 6

Omnicare Alliance Ltd 167,101 39,138 20

Great Lakes 9,721 22,365 12

Manning 16,962 22,365 12

Gloucester 20,719 22,750 12

Totals 2018-2019 314,844 192,314 100

MID NORTH COAST HOME MODIFICATION SCHEME LEVEL 2

REVIEW PANEL AT 30 JUNE 2019

Damien Rolvnik Gloucester HMP Representative

Ian Thompson Manning Support Services Representative (Manning HMMS)

…… Great Lakes Community Resources Representative (Great Lakes HMMS)

…… Omnicare Alliance Representative (Hastings HMMS)

…. Macleay Options Representative (Macleay HMMS)

Dennis Compton Live Better Representative (Nambucca/Bellingen HMMS)

Shalla Thomas East Coast Accessibility Experts Representative + Coordinator

Janet Whitfield Occupational Therapist Representative

Suzie McLennan Occupational Therapist Representative

Belinda Whatmough Occupational Therapist Representative

Paul Sekfy Community Representative/Funder Representative


ALLIED HEALTH PROJECT - OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BROKERAGE PROJECT

The current level of funding has been increased during the last twelve months and is currently

sufficient to meet demand across the Mid North Coast.

Package Providers will be asked to pay for Occupational Therapy assessments in the future to ensure funds are available for those members not in receipt of Commonwealth Home Care

packages Level 1 – 4.

A job description has been formulated and is currently with pier group for feedback. Competencies

have been formulated and will be a panel benchmark. The job will be advertised within our

networks and on SEEK.

This position will be full time and commence with a 12 month contract to gauge the demand for,

the elderly and NDIS participants.

CONCLUSION

Coffs Harbour Home Modification & Maintenance Service, Trading As, East Coast Accessibility

Experts had another very busy year with ongoing support from referring agencies, private

providers, package providers, and direct client contact, as a preferred service provider in

modification, maintenance and allied health assessments for our elders and younger people with

disabilities. Navigating the two systems of My Aged Care and National Disability Insurance Scheme,

registered provider for both streams.

Our Strategic Plan will be under review and the expression for moving forward will be considered

with the Occupational Therapist position and geographical expansion to support the industry across

the Mid North Coast.

Marketing the benefits of modification and maintenance in the positive purchase of freedom,

independence and safety in and around the home and within the community.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed

https://www.flickr.com/photos/medicalmuseum/3305093988

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/


Community engagement is a clear focus area for the organisation with representation at forums,

conferences, and a broad social commitment from individual team members in their engagement

with their local communities and local activities. Team members are collectively donating blood on

a regular basis.

Our team elected Daniel Curzon to be the face of East Coast Accessibility Experts and Daniel has accepted this role within the organisation. All marketing material has the face of Daniel with a

collection of photos and videos of service users and work completed.

STAFF CHANGES DURING THE YEAR:

We have added to our team this year with Daniel Stewart and Drew Armitage, both have been a

enhancement and compliment to existing team in construction, welcome and thank you for your

efforts in supporting our clients, team members and the organisation.

Our Construction team continue to hold their toolbox talks, and operational staff have monthly operational meetings, both feeding into our monthly solution focused, continuous improvement and quality management mapping, included in our team meetings. These meetings also include

training, goal setting and workplace health and safety.

Performance Reviews have been carried out during the year with all team members, providing

updates of job descriptions, Key Performance Indicators, Motivational Plans, Training and

Development Plans.

I look forward to the challenges for East Coast Accessibility Experts for 2020 and working with a

committed, conscientious team and a Board of Management focussing on Good Governance and

Strategic Future direction.

Yours in Home Mods

SHALLA THOMAS

CEO



WORKS SUPERVISOR REPORT

AGM 25 NOVEMBER 2019


WORKS SUPERVISOR REPORT

I would like to welcome Dan Stewart and Andrew Armitage as new fulltime carpenters with

the Building Team in 2019; joining Daniel Curzon, carpenter, Geoff Rogers, Handyman and

myself. Both Dan and Andrew have quickly become integral members of our team,

working in a professional and caring manner that reflects the high standards of our service.

The service has also continued to employ Charles Reid as a contracted Project Manager as

required, in addition to Colin Makinson continuing to support the team as contracted

builder.

The introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme in July 2017 has continued to

impact significantly on the nature of work conducted by the Building Team; with a large

number of complex quotations requested for local people with a disability.

As a preferred supplier of NDIS services, we work closely with local occupational therapists,

firstly to liaise with the clients and the referring occupational therapist to develop plans for

significant projects such as bathroom modifications; and then to deliver a high-quality

outcome for the client. Development of relationships with all stakeholders is central to this

process and highlights the importance of maintaining these relationships as the service

continues to operate in a competitive NDIS environment.

To continue to take advantage of the opportunities that have arisen due to the introduction

of the NDIS and the increase in the projects funded by My Aged Care Packages, the service

will need to be adaptable and ready to meet the needs of clients funded under these

schemes. Expansion of the service to accommodate this future direction, will require our

staff to be highly trained and supported by robust organisational processes. Of equal

importance is the provision of advice and support that we provide not only to our clients,

but to our partnering occupational therapists which is crucial to our ongoing success as an

organisation.

During 2019, in addition to minor modifications and maintenance works; the Building Team

completed a number of major modification projects including access (ramps, easy-steps and

paths), and bathroom modifications.

DAVID REID

WORKS SUPERVISOR

Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service ... · Coffs Harbour Home Modification and...

Documents

Transcript of Coffs Harbour Home Modification and Maintenance Service ... · Coffs Harbour Home Modification and...