Helping homeless rural South Aussies

A program designed to prevent homelessness in older people will be expanded to assist older South Australians in some rural areas to find secure and affordable housing.

The Assistance with Care and Housing (ACHA) program received additional government funding to extend the program to older people living in South Australia’s Murraylands last month. The program also links people to support services, community groups and health services.

The program, established by South Australian care provider Resthaven, has a long history and commitment to the Murraylands, dating back to 1957.

Richard Hearn, Resthaven chief executive, says: “Over the years, the range of options available to help meet the demand for aged care has expanded.  In addition to residential aged care provided at our Swanport Road facility, we offer a comprehensive range of in-home care and support services, coordinated from our Murray Bridge offices.

“In-home care and support services allow people to stay living at home, offering peace of mind to relatives, friends and neighbours, and a variety of options for people who need support to maintain their independence.”

Cecelia Oxborrow, Resthaven Murray Bridge and Hills Community Services manager, explains the ACHA program can assist clients to negotiate with Centrelink to set up regular rental payments, reducing the likelihood of eviction due to non-payment.

“[The program] can also provide telephone and face to face advice and advocacy regarding housing and tenancy issues, and assist people at risk of losing their tenancy after an extended period of time in hospital,” Ms Oxborrow says.

Resthaven accepts referrals from health care providers, other organisations, advocates and family members. People may choose to refer themselves.

For more information on the Assistance with Care and Housing (ACHA) program, contact Resthaven.