Brightwater 2013 year book

Yearbook

RESIDENTIALAGED CARE

SERVICES FoR YoUNGER PEoPLE

AT HoME SERVICES

TRANSITIoNCARE

RESPITESERVICES

LINENSERVICES

THE bRIGHTWATERCENTRE

SPECIALISEDSERVICES

CATERINGSERVICES

If you enjoy reading the stories in this Yearbook please visit our website, www.brightwatergroup.com to read the full versions and learn more about how we are changing the lives of our residents and clients.Welcome

RESIDENTIALAGED CARE

SERVICES FOR YOUNGER PEOPLE

AT HOME SERVICES

TRANSITIONCARE

RESPITESERVICES

LINENSERVICES

RETIREMENTLIVING

THE BRIGHTWATERCENTRE

SPECIALISEDSERVICES

CATERINGSERVICES

If you enjoy reading the stories in this Yearbook please visit our website, www.brightwatergroup.com to read the full versions and learn more about how we are changing the lives of our residents and clients.Welcome

Dear friends ,

This Yearbook is a collection of wonderful stories, in words and pictures, of just some of the happenings at Brightwater this past year. It was originally intended to be a part of the formal annual report, which is presented every October by the Chair of the Brightwater Board. But we had so many things we wanted to describe, there wasn’t room to fit them all in.

So it is my pleasure to present the 2013 Brightwater Yearbook to you. It can certainly be read as a companion to the annual report, but equally, it stands on its own, to be explored and enjoyed.

It contains but a small sample of the hundreds of activities that go on in the many Brightwater places all over Perth and beyond. all of them have one thing in common. every story is about helping the people with whom we are privileged to work, to...

enjoy life’s possibilities.

Dr PeNNY FLeTT CEo

Dr Penny Flett, CEO

Dr Penny Flett spending time with residents from Brightwater Madeley to launch the NHMRC Partnership Centre.4 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 5

Dear friends ,

This Yearbook is a collection of wonderful stories, in words and pictures, of just some of the happenings at Brightwater this past year. It was originally intended to be a part of the formal annual report, which is presented every October by the Chair of the Brightwater Board. But we had so many things we wanted to describe, there wasn’t room to fit them all in.

So it is my pleasure to present the 2013 Brightwater Yearbook to you. It can certainly be read as a companion to the annual report, but equally, it stands on its own, to be explored and enjoyed.

It contains but a small sample of the hundreds of activities that go on in the many Brightwater places all over Perth and beyond. all of them have one thing in common. every story is about helping the people with whom we are privileged to work, to...

enjoy life’s possibilities.

Dr PeNNY FLeTT CEo

Dr Penny Flett, CEO

Dr Penny Flett spending time with residents from Brightwater Madeley to launch the NHMRC Partnership Centre.4 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 5

I never thought I would walk again

but thanks to Brightwater I can.

Brightwater Oats Street is a unique statewide rehabilitation program for people with an acquired brain injury (ABI). The program aims to facilitate the return to community living within an environment suitable to each person’s needs.

When Michael first arrived at Oats Street he was unable to walk and had difficulty expressing himself. In fact Michael thought that he would never walk again.

Since moving into Oats Street two years ago Michael has immersed himself in every opportunity available to gain back his independence.

Through physiotherapy and speech therapy Michael is now able to walk with the assistance of only a walking stick and his speech has improved significantly.

But it is not only traditional therapies that have supported Michael. He has been involved in a number of different programs run at Oats Street, all aimed at helping clients regain their independence.

The Relaxation and Mindfulness Group has taught him relaxation strategies to reduce stress levels and enhance his sense of self to increase emotional balance and optimise motivation to engage in other therapies.

The social skills group has helped him become a functional communicator and the Garden Gurus Group has not only developed a love for growing fresh produce, it has helped him re-learn important skills such as taking public transport and forward planning.

The outcome could have been very different for Michael, but he is now living in Esperance House at Oats Street. This is significant for Michael as it marks the last stage of his rehabilitation. Over the coming months Michael will be supported to move into independent accommodation.

When asked about what he thinks of Brightwater Oats Street now that he is at the end of his journey, Michael very sincerely says that he thanks God for Brightwater and leaves you with an exceptional statement:

“I never thought I would walk again but thanks to Brightwater I can.”

When Michael was given only two choices following his stroke – Brightwater Oats Street or life in a residential aged Care facility – the choice was clear. Oats Street was where he wanted to go. MIChaeL’S

SToRY

Michael, resident at Brightwater Oats Street with one of the staff.6 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 7

I never thought I would walk again

but thanks to Brightwater I can.

Brightwater Oats Street is a unique statewide rehabilitation program for people with an acquired brain injury (ABI). The program aims to facilitate the return to community living within an environment suitable to each person’s needs.

When Michael first arrived at Oats Street he was unable to walk and had difficulty expressing himself. In fact Michael thought that he would never walk again.

Since moving into Oats Street two years ago Michael has immersed himself in every opportunity available to gain back his independence.

Through physiotherapy and speech therapy Michael is now able to walk with the assistance of only a walking stick and his speech has improved significantly.

But it is not only traditional therapies that have supported Michael. He has been involved in a number of different programs run at Oats Street, all aimed at helping clients regain their independence.

The Relaxation and Mindfulness Group has taught him relaxation strategies to reduce stress levels and enhance his sense of self to increase emotional balance and optimise motivation to engage in other therapies.

The social skills group has helped him become a functional communicator and the Garden Gurus Group has not only developed a love for growing fresh produce, it has helped him re-learn important skills such as taking public transport and forward planning.

The outcome could have been very different for Michael, but he is now living in Esperance House at Oats Street. This is significant for Michael as it marks the last stage of his rehabilitation. Over the coming months Michael will be supported to move into independent accommodation.

When asked about what he thinks of Brightwater Oats Street now that he is at the end of his journey, Michael very sincerely says that he thanks God for Brightwater and leaves you with an exceptional statement:

“I never thought I would walk again but thanks to Brightwater I can.”

When Michael was given only two choices following his stroke – Brightwater Oats Street or life in a residential aged Care facility – the choice was clear. Oats Street was where he wanted to go. MIChaeL’S

SToRY

Michael, resident at Brightwater Oats Street with one of the staff.6 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 7

Oats Street residents making use of the new gym completed as part of the Stage One build.8 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 9

Oats Street residents making use of the new gym completed as part of the Stage One build.8 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 9

Being able to relax is

critical to our wellbeing.

Our Sound Therapist, Silke, has been working with residents at Brightwater The Cove to see if the atmosphere of relaxation created by Tibetan Singing Bowls# can help residents living with dementia to relax and reduce their agitation, easing some of their distressing behaviours.

The impact cannot be disputed. Residents who are taking part in Silke’s sound therapy groups are calmer, happier, quieter, more relaxed and have had significant reductions in their difficult behaviours.

One of our residents, David*, who has Alzheimer’s disease, depression and arthritis, has been participating in the classes and has had a real change in many of his behaviours. He is noticeably less anxious and frustrated and is better able to manage.

Prior to the sound therapy, David was wandering into other people’s rooms, was on occasion aggressive towards staff and other residents, and was not eating well.

Since taking part in the Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Therapy, David is now eating double the portion of dinner and taking more notice of what’s in the newspaper rather than just flicking through it.

The therapy has been so helpful that following his session on a Wednesday, he is able to have a proper conversation with his family. Prior to the therapy he found it difficult to speak clearly and meaningful conversations were challenging.

Even though he is sometimes still a little unsettled in the early evening, the difference in David’s life has been absolutely significant thanks to these incredible singing bowls.

When you walk into a Sound Therapy session at Brightwater The Cove something special happens. There is an immediate feeling of calm that washes over you, that makes you feel almost instantly relaxed.

a SPeCIaL kIND oF CALM

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

# Therapeutic use of the Tibetan Singing Bowls has been evaluated by The Brightwater Centre and was awarded a Better Practice Award by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency in 2013. We invite you to see detailed results and read further case studies on our website www.brightwatergroup.com

Silke, Sound Therapist.

Tibetan singing bowls.10 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 11

Being able to relax is

critical to our wellbeing.

Our Sound Therapist, Silke, has been working with residents at Brightwater The Cove to see if the atmosphere of relaxation created by Tibetan Singing Bowls# can help residents living with dementia to relax and reduce their agitation, easing some of their distressing behaviours.

The impact cannot be disputed. Residents who are taking part in Silke’s sound therapy groups are calmer, happier, quieter, more relaxed and have had significant reductions in their difficult behaviours.

One of our residents, David*, who has Alzheimer’s disease, depression and arthritis, has been participating in the classes and has had a real change in many of his behaviours. He is noticeably less anxious and frustrated and is better able to manage.

Prior to the sound therapy, David was wandering into other people’s rooms, was on occasion aggressive towards staff and other residents, and was not eating well.

Since taking part in the Tibetan Singing Bowl Sound Therapy, David is now eating double the portion of dinner and taking more notice of what’s in the newspaper rather than just flicking through it.

The therapy has been so helpful that following his session on a Wednesday, he is able to have a proper conversation with his family. Prior to the therapy he found it difficult to speak clearly and meaningful conversations were challenging.

Even though he is sometimes still a little unsettled in the early evening, the difference in David’s life has been absolutely significant thanks to these incredible singing bowls.

When you walk into a Sound Therapy session at Brightwater The Cove something special happens. There is an immediate feeling of calm that washes over you, that makes you feel almost instantly relaxed.

a SPeCIaL kIND oF CALM

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

# Therapeutic use of the Tibetan Singing Bowls has been evaluated by The Brightwater Centre and was awarded a Better Practice Award by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency in 2013. We invite you to see detailed results and read further case studies on our website www.brightwatergroup.com

Silke, Sound Therapist.

Tibetan singing bowls.10 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 11

This program is about so much more

than technology, it’s about creating

connection between people

But if you weren’t born in the technology generation and you’ve never had any training on how to use a computer, what does this new way we communicate mean for you?

Many people, especially those living alone in the community, often experience feelings of isolation.

Thanks to a donation from Lotterywest and a new partnership with Befriend1, Brightwater is helping to reduce this isolation.

At almost 85 years of age, Joy may be vision impaired but that hasn’t stopped her from taking on the challenge of learning about new technologies.

Joy has been using e-mail for some time now but wanted to be part of eFriends, a project of Befriend Inc. to learn how to use Skype and to learn more about how she can use the internet.

Each Saturday morning Joy looks forward to a visit from Jacinta, her eFriends trainer, and is steadily gaining more confidence to use this new technology.

Already Joy has been able to speak to her daughter who lives in Brisbane over Skype. She thoroughly enjoys the experience of being able to see her

daughter as they speak to each other.

“Although we speak on the phone regularly there is something very special about being able to see my daughter as I chat with her. It almost seems like she’s not so far away,” said Joy.

“Jacinta is wonderful, it’s such a pleasure to see her every week. I’m really enjoying learning more but I’m so glad I’m not getting assessed on my knowledge because I’m a bit slow at picking the concepts up but that’s ok because Jacinta is very patient,” said Joy with a smile.

Sandy Komen, Manager Brightwater At Home Services believes this program is going to make a real difference to the lives of many of our clients.

“This program is doing so much more than just increasing people’s capability. It is creating connections online and offline. New friendships are being developed between clients and new communities are opening up online,” said Sandy.

The last five to ten years have seen many advances in the ways we communicate with each other. We are now able to keep in touch with a loved one who is overseas by simply logging onto Facebook. Seeing and communicating with that family member is as easy as opening up Skype.

CreaTINg CoNNECTIoNS

1 Befriend Inc. is a not for profit organisation committed to reducing social isolation in the Perth community and working towards a socially inclusive societyJoy, At Home Services client and eFriends participant.12 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 13

This program is about so much more

than technology, it’s about creating

connection between people

But if you weren’t born in the technology generation and you’ve never had any training on how to use a computer, what does this new way we communicate mean for you?

Many people, especially those living alone in the community, often experience feelings of isolation.

Thanks to a donation from Lotterywest and a new partnership with Befriend1, Brightwater is helping to reduce this isolation.

At almost 85 years of age, Joy may be vision impaired but that hasn’t stopped her from taking on the challenge of learning about new technologies.

Joy has been using e-mail for some time now but wanted to be part of eFriends, a project of Befriend Inc. to learn how to use Skype and to learn more about how she can use the internet.

Each Saturday morning Joy looks forward to a visit from Jacinta, her eFriends trainer, and is steadily gaining more confidence to use this new technology.

Already Joy has been able to speak to her daughter who lives in Brisbane over Skype. She thoroughly enjoys the experience of being able to see her

daughter as they speak to each other.

“Although we speak on the phone regularly there is something very special about being able to see my daughter as I chat with her. It almost seems like she’s not so far away,” said Joy.

“Jacinta is wonderful, it’s such a pleasure to see her every week. I’m really enjoying learning more but I’m so glad I’m not getting assessed on my knowledge because I’m a bit slow at picking the concepts up but that’s ok because Jacinta is very patient,” said Joy with a smile.

Sandy Komen, Manager Brightwater At Home Services believes this program is going to make a real difference to the lives of many of our clients.

“This program is doing so much more than just increasing people’s capability. It is creating connections online and offline. New friendships are being developed between clients and new communities are opening up online,” said Sandy.

The last five to ten years have seen many advances in the ways we communicate with each other. We are now able to keep in touch with a loved one who is overseas by simply logging onto Facebook. Seeing and communicating with that family member is as easy as opening up Skype.

CreaTINg CoNNECTIoNS

1 Befriend Inc. is a not for profit organisation committed to reducing social isolation in the Perth community and working towards a socially inclusive societyJoy, At Home Services client and eFriends participant.12 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 13

Hairdressing salon at Brightwater Edgewater.14 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 15

Hairdressing salon at Brightwater Edgewater.14 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 15

The gift of being able to see my Dad

again is one I’ll never forget.

Once our holiday is over, the joy and excitement continues on as we share the experience and memories with those around us.

The opportunities for our people to experience these feelings are rare because for many of them, going on a holiday is usually just not possible. But the Brightwater Holiday Program is changing this reality by granting people their holiday wishes.

This year Sam, who has lived at Kailis House for the past four years, had one of her dreams realised through the program.

Sam has Huntington’s disease and hadn’t seen her father who lives in Tasmania for eight years. Like his daughter, Sam’s father has Huntington’s disease and was unable to travel to Western Australia to see Sam.

Through the Holiday program, Sam was able to embark on a special 10 day trip, accompanied by her team leader Dianne, who was able to support her to get on the plane and assist with any challenges she faced on the trip.

Sam and Dianne visited Hobart, Port Arthur and Georgetown where Sam met up with her dad and other members of her family. Sam was able to spend some special time with her father showing him pictures and talking about her young children who he hasn’t had the opportunity to meet.

Sam is so grateful to have been given this opportunity. She had a wonderful time and says she would do it again in a heartbeat.

“People should definitely take a leap of faith and join the Holiday program. It is a fantastic experience that I just can’t wait to repeat again,” said Sam.

During this financial year the Holiday program has enabled residents to go on 13 holidays and 10 day trips.

There’s nothing like the excitement of an impending holiday. Just the thought of what we’re going to do and the new things we will encounter is enough to conjure up a flutter of excitement within us.The TrIP

oF A LIFETIME

Sam, resident at Brightwater Kailis House.

Sam and Dianne on their holiday in Tasmania.

16 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 17

The gift of being able to see my Dad

again is one I’ll never forget.

Once our holiday is over, the joy and excitement continues on as we share the experience and memories with those around us.

The opportunities for our people to experience these feelings are rare because for many of them, going on a holiday is usually just not possible. But the Brightwater Holiday Program is changing this reality by granting people their holiday wishes.

This year Sam, who has lived at Kailis House for the past four years, had one of her dreams realised through the program.

Sam has Huntington’s disease and hadn’t seen her father who lives in Tasmania for eight years. Like his daughter, Sam’s father has Huntington’s disease and was unable to travel to Western Australia to see Sam.

Through the Holiday program, Sam was able to embark on a special 10 day trip, accompanied by her team leader Dianne, who was able to support her to get on the plane and assist with any challenges she faced on the trip.

Sam and Dianne visited Hobart, Port Arthur and Georgetown where Sam met up with her dad and other members of her family. Sam was able to spend some special time with her father showing him pictures and talking about her young children who he hasn’t had the opportunity to meet.

Sam is so grateful to have been given this opportunity. She had a wonderful time and says she would do it again in a heartbeat.

“People should definitely take a leap of faith and join the Holiday program. It is a fantastic experience that I just can’t wait to repeat again,” said Sam.

During this financial year the Holiday program has enabled residents to go on 13 holidays and 10 day trips.

There’s nothing like the excitement of an impending holiday. Just the thought of what we’re going to do and the new things we will encounter is enough to conjure up a flutter of excitement within us.The TrIP

oF A LIFETIME

Sam, resident at Brightwater Kailis House.

Sam and Dianne on their holiday in Tasmania.


It’s our story which

shapes our life and

brings us joy.

That is not the case at Brightwater The Village. As the only Brightwater facility that exclusively supports people with advanced dementia, The Village prides itself on providing a warm, inviting and engaging home for its residents.

Every resident has their own, personalised space and access to a number of common lounge rooms and a large garden area with meandering paths and many places of interest.

A great deal of effort is put into understanding each resident when they first move into The Village. Using Wellbeing Care Mapping, staff, the resident and their family sit together to create a picture of the resident’s life.

The story includes things like where the person grew up, activities they liked as a child, whether they went to war, how many children they have, their faith, and things they’ve enjoyed doing throughout their life.

“Knowing our residents’ histories and some of their likes and dislikes helps us to plan and run a variety of activities to support individual interests and to make sure that they enjoy their time at The Village.”

One of the successful programs run by The Village is the music program. Jennifer Neilson, Care Manager, says that staff have seen incredible changes in residents after attending the group

where they spend time listening to music. One resident, Julie*, had little ability to speak and express herself which caused her great frustration. Julie became a regular attendee at the music program and is now much calmer and has greater ability to express herself.

The simple act of plugging in an iPod and listening to music that is special to Julie has made a significant difference to her life each day. You can see the calm and enjoyment in Julie’s face each time she puts on the earphones.

It is very clear that the wellbeing of each person at The Village is at the centre of what our staff do every day. It’s not unusual to find a Care Worker dancing around the room with a resident, because that’s what brings joy to their face. Just because a resident is living with dementia, doesn’t mean it’s time for them to stop enjoying life’s possibilities.

Many people assume that a dementia specific residential aged care facility is a place without much life and enjoyment, where people just go through the motions of everyday.LIvINg WeLL

WITH DEMENTIA

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.A lifetime of photos.18 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 19

It’s our story which

shapes our life and

brings us joy.

That is not the case at Brightwater The Village. As the only Brightwater facility that exclusively supports people with advanced dementia, The Village prides itself on providing a warm, inviting and engaging home for its residents.

Every resident has their own, personalised space and access to a number of common lounge rooms and a large garden area with meandering paths and many places of interest.

A great deal of effort is put into understanding each resident when they first move into The Village. Using Wellbeing Care Mapping, staff, the resident and their family sit together to create a picture of the resident’s life.

The story includes things like where the person grew up, activities they liked as a child, whether they went to war, how many children they have, their faith, and things they’ve enjoyed doing throughout their life.

“Knowing our residents’ histories and some of their likes and dislikes helps us to plan and run a variety of activities to support individual interests and to make sure that they enjoy their time at The Village.”

One of the successful programs run by The Village is the music program. Jennifer Neilson, Care Manager, says that staff have seen incredible changes in residents after attending the group

where they spend time listening to music. One resident, Julie*, had little ability to speak and express herself which caused her great frustration. Julie became a regular attendee at the music program and is now much calmer and has greater ability to express herself.

The simple act of plugging in an iPod and listening to music that is special to Julie has made a significant difference to her life each day. You can see the calm and enjoyment in Julie’s face each time she puts on the earphones.

It is very clear that the wellbeing of each person at The Village is at the centre of what our staff do every day. It’s not unusual to find a Care Worker dancing around the room with a resident, because that’s what brings joy to their face. Just because a resident is living with dementia, doesn’t mean it’s time for them to stop enjoying life’s possibilities.

Many people assume that a dementia specific residential aged care facility is a place without much life and enjoyment, where people just go through the motions of everyday.LIvINg WeLL

WITH DEMENTIA

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.A lifetime of photos.18 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 19

Residents from Brightwater Edgewater enjoying the café.20 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 21

Residents from Brightwater Edgewater enjoying the café.20 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 21

One of the lovely

things that happens

is the residents

support one another.

The staff at Edgewater aim to ensure all residents enjoy life’s possibilities through specially planned activities and by providing them with a safe and comfortable home.

At Edgewater, approximately half of the residents are living with dementia. All houses at Edgewater have a mixture of people living with dementia and those who don’t. All activities are planned and designed to be relevant and open to everyone.

Care Manager, Angela Lowe, believes that this approach has benefited both those with dementia and those without.

“One of the lovely things that happens in this environment is that you see residents supporting each other. For example two of our residents, Flo* and Judy*, have rooms next to each other in one of our houses.

Flo is living with dementia and Judy is not. What is lovely is that these two ladies have become great friends and Judy makes sure that Flo never misses out on anything. It’s not unusual to find Judy knocking on Flo’s door to make sure she doesn’t forget it’s time to head off to one of their groups or to get ready for a meal.”

“This has meant that Flo has remained engaged in life here at Edgewater without a Care Worker having to prompt her, and it has given Judy great purpose each day. These two ladies have formed a lovely friendship,” said Angela.

Just like at other Brightwater residential homes, the residents’ wellbeing is at the centre of everything the staff do at Edgewater.

“We very much follow Brightwater’s purpose to enable wellbeing among our residents and each activity, task and outing is planned with their needs and interests at the centre. We empower each of our residents to make their own decisions and choose which activity they would like to participate in. We are also continually looking for new activities which are engaging, enjoyable and assist us to support them to better enjoy life’s possibilities,” said Angela.

When you walk into edgewater, like many of our other Brightwater sites, you instantly feel at home. The lounge rooms of each house welcome you like a big hug - warm, friendly, inviting and inclusive. and that is exactly how they are intended to be.LIvINg WITh a

reaL SeNSe oF CoMMUNITY

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.Parry, Therapy Assistant at Brightwater Edgewater with a resident.22 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 23

One of the lovely

things that happens

is the residents

support one another.

The staff at Edgewater aim to ensure all residents enjoy life’s possibilities through specially planned activities and by providing them with a safe and comfortable home.

At Edgewater, approximately half of the residents are living with dementia. All houses at Edgewater have a mixture of people living with dementia and those who don’t. All activities are planned and designed to be relevant and open to everyone.

Care Manager, Angela Lowe, believes that this approach has benefited both those with dementia and those without.

“One of the lovely things that happens in this environment is that you see residents supporting each other. For example two of our residents, Flo* and Judy*, have rooms next to each other in one of our houses.

Flo is living with dementia and Judy is not. What is lovely is that these two ladies have become great friends and Judy makes sure that Flo never misses out on anything. It’s not unusual to find Judy knocking on Flo’s door to make sure she doesn’t forget it’s time to head off to one of their groups or to get ready for a meal.”

“This has meant that Flo has remained engaged in life here at Edgewater without a Care Worker having to prompt her, and it has given Judy great purpose each day. These two ladies have formed a lovely friendship,” said Angela.

Just like at other Brightwater residential homes, the residents’ wellbeing is at the centre of everything the staff do at Edgewater.

“We very much follow Brightwater’s purpose to enable wellbeing among our residents and each activity, task and outing is planned with their needs and interests at the centre. We empower each of our residents to make their own decisions and choose which activity they would like to participate in. We are also continually looking for new activities which are engaging, enjoyable and assist us to support them to better enjoy life’s possibilities,” said Angela.

When you walk into edgewater, like many of our other Brightwater sites, you instantly feel at home. The lounge rooms of each house welcome you like a big hug - warm, friendly, inviting and inclusive. and that is exactly how they are intended to be.LIvINg WITh a

reaL SeNSe oF CoMMUNITY

* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.Parry, Therapy Assistant at Brightwater Edgewater with a resident.22 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 23

It’s the sound of laughter

and new friendships being formed

that makes this group so special.

It is in this tradition that Brightwater Seatec, a seating and equipment clinic that provides a specialist service to Brightwater, runs their Art Group.

The Seatec Creative Art Group is designed to increase social interaction for our residents. This is a very special program because people from many different homes across Brightwater come together to enjoy participating in creative activities.

What is beautiful about this group is that it is a labour of love from start to finish. The fabrics and many resources are donated from the community, the finished products are often donated back to Brightwater sites to brighten someone’s day and each member of the group not only works on their own piece but they support others with encouragement and assistance.

It really is a place where people can forget the things that worry them, enjoy the company of others and get great satisfaction from the items they create at the same time.

For generations people have sat together in groups sharing stories and creating masterpieces. These times provide unique opportunities for people to connect with others, be encouraged and to develop new friendships.

CreaTIve CoNNECTIoNS

Brightwater Oats Street resident participating in Seatec Creative Art Group.

The art group aims to encourage creative expression, improve self-confidence and provide an opportunity for people to connect with others from different backgrounds and life stages.

“It’s a regular time on my calendar and something I look forward to. The activities are always fun because of the group. There is always a story about each activity and we enjoy having afternoon tea together,” says Marie* who has participated in the group since it began.

Brightwater Oats Street resident participating in Art Therapy. * Names have been changed for privacy reasons.24 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 25

It’s the sound of laughter

and new friendships being formed

that makes this group so special.

It is in this tradition that Brightwater Seatec, a seating and equipment clinic that provides a specialist service to Brightwater, runs their Art Group.

The Seatec Creative Art Group is designed to increase social interaction for our residents. This is a very special program because people from many different homes across Brightwater come together to enjoy participating in creative activities.

What is beautiful about this group is that it is a labour of love from start to finish. The fabrics and many resources are donated from the community, the finished products are often donated back to Brightwater sites to brighten someone’s day and each member of the group not only works on their own piece but they support others with encouragement and assistance.

It really is a place where people can forget the things that worry them, enjoy the company of others and get great satisfaction from the items they create at the same time.

For generations people have sat together in groups sharing stories and creating masterpieces. These times provide unique opportunities for people to connect with others, be encouraged and to develop new friendships.

CreaTIve CoNNECTIoNS

Brightwater Oats Street resident participating in Seatec Creative Art Group.

The art group aims to encourage creative expression, improve self-confidence and provide an opportunity for people to connect with others from different backgrounds and life stages.

“It’s a regular time on my calendar and something I look forward to. The activities are always fun because of the group. There is always a story about each activity and we enjoy having afternoon tea together,” says Marie* who has participated in the group since it began.

Brightwater Oats Street resident participating in Art Therapy. * Names have been changed for privacy reasons.24 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 25

Brightwater residents enjoying some animal therapy.26 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 27

Brightwater residents enjoying some animal therapy.26 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 27

We have volunteered a lot over the years

but volunteering for Brightwater has been

the most rewarding experience.

In an effort to create this experience, when Brightwater Madeley first opened its doors in 2005 it also opened the door of Maddies Café. On that first day the coffees were served by Graeme and Jeannie McLennan, two volunteers who still volunteer at Maddies today.

“We decided to become volunteers in recognition of the care given to my mother and of the benefit of creating and providing a coffee shop atmosphere for the residents. It is a great place for visitors to meet with their loved ones,” says Graeme.

The café gives residents a unique opportunity to be able to go out while staying in.

“It is such a unique and fantastic opportunity for everyone to go on an outing without having to use any transportation. I come to Maddies almost every day and it requires only little effort on my part. We all know each other and enjoy spending time together,” says Beth, one of Brightwater Madeley’s residents.

“We love the camaraderie and friendships between fellow volunteers and Madeley staff and residents. It is a great atmosphere and we enjoy coming every week,” says Graeme and Jeannie.

The café is joyfully run by a team of volunteers who make sure that everyday residents have somewhere special to go with their families and friends.

Maddies volunteers are making a difference not only to the residents who enjoy a cup of coffee, but to all residents as all profits go back into buying additional resources for Brightwater Madeley so that they can truly enjoy their time at Brightwater Madeley.

Brightwater welcomes all new volunteers and offers a range of activities and areas for them to work in. There is something for everyone ranging from helping out at Maddies, like Jeannie and Graham, to taking residents on outings or organising social events at Brightwater facilities.

There is something so simple, yet so engaging, about sharing a story or peaceful silence with someone over a cup of tea or coffee in a café. The simple experience of going out, ordering your favourite drink and maybe something delicious to eat, adds significance to an occasion and provides a joyful experience to share with another.

a PLaCe Where YOu geT SO MuCh MoRE THAN YoU GIVE

Graeme and Jennie volunteering at Maddies.

Maddies volunteers.28 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 29

We have volunteered a lot over the years

but volunteering for Brightwater has been

the most rewarding experience.

In an effort to create this experience, when Brightwater Madeley first opened its doors in 2005 it also opened the door of Maddies Café. On that first day the coffees were served by Graeme and Jeannie McLennan, two volunteers who still volunteer at Maddies today.

“We decided to become volunteers in recognition of the care given to my mother and of the benefit of creating and providing a coffee shop atmosphere for the residents. It is a great place for visitors to meet with their loved ones,” says Graeme.

The café gives residents a unique opportunity to be able to go out while staying in.

“It is such a unique and fantastic opportunity for everyone to go on an outing without having to use any transportation. I come to Maddies almost every day and it requires only little effort on my part. We all know each other and enjoy spending time together,” says Beth, one of Brightwater Madeley’s residents.

“We love the camaraderie and friendships between fellow volunteers and Madeley staff and residents. It is a great atmosphere and we enjoy coming every week,” says Graeme and Jeannie.

The café is joyfully run by a team of volunteers who make sure that everyday residents have somewhere special to go with their families and friends.

Maddies volunteers are making a difference not only to the residents who enjoy a cup of coffee, but to all residents as all profits go back into buying additional resources for Brightwater Madeley so that they can truly enjoy their time at Brightwater Madeley.

Brightwater welcomes all new volunteers and offers a range of activities and areas for them to work in. There is something for everyone ranging from helping out at Maddies, like Jeannie and Graham, to taking residents on outings or organising social events at Brightwater facilities.

There is something so simple, yet so engaging, about sharing a story or peaceful silence with someone over a cup of tea or coffee in a café. The simple experience of going out, ordering your favourite drink and maybe something delicious to eat, adds significance to an occasion and provides a joyful experience to share with another.

a PLaCe Where YOu geT SO MuCh MoRE THAN YoU GIVE

Graeme and Jennie volunteering at Maddies.

Maddies volunteers.28 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 29

We’re here to help people

remain living in their own home.

This year, Brightwater At Home (the Community services division of Brightwater) has been trialling a program to reduce the concerns of our clients’ families by using Just Checking2 technology.

Just Checking uses a combination of movement sensors and recording software to map a person’s behaviour in their home. Through the strategic placing of sensors the staff are able to gain an insight into the activities of the clients while they are at home alone.

For George’s* family Just Checking has provided great relief.

George is living independently with dementia and was often talking about going outside at night time. His family was particularly concerned that George was leaving his home at night time and were worried that if he went for an evening walk in the dark he may become disorientated and not know how to return home.

Brightwater At Home staff suggested that Just Checking be installed in George’s house.

Once the sensors were installed, the staff were able to easily map George’s movements and confirm to his family that he was in fact going out at night but he was going out the back of his house into a secure courtyard.

This knowledge reassured George’s family of his safety and that he was still able to live independently.

When you have a loved one living independently with dementia, it can be difficult to be sure if they are safe and if they can continue to live in their own home or if they need more support.

gIvINg FaMILIeS PEACE oF MIND

Residents from Kingsway Court (not participating in Just Checking).* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

2 For more information about Just Checking please visit our website.

Brightwater resident. Brightwater At Home client.


We’re here to help people

remain living in their own home.

This year, Brightwater At Home (the Community services division of Brightwater) has been trialling a program to reduce the concerns of our clients’ families by using Just Checking2 technology.

Just Checking uses a combination of movement sensors and recording software to map a person’s behaviour in their home. Through the strategic placing of sensors the staff are able to gain an insight into the activities of the clients while they are at home alone.

For George’s* family Just Checking has provided great relief.

George is living independently with dementia and was often talking about going outside at night time. His family was particularly concerned that George was leaving his home at night time and were worried that if he went for an evening walk in the dark he may become disorientated and not know how to return home.

Brightwater At Home staff suggested that Just Checking be installed in George’s house.

Once the sensors were installed, the staff were able to easily map George’s movements and confirm to his family that he was in fact going out at night but he was going out the back of his house into a secure courtyard.

This knowledge reassured George’s family of his safety and that he was still able to live independently.

When you have a loved one living independently with dementia, it can be difficult to be sure if they are safe and if they can continue to live in their own home or if they need more support.

gIvINg FaMILIeS PEACE oF MIND

Residents from Brighwater Madeley (not participating in Just Checking).* Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

2 For more information about Just Checking please visit our website.

Brightwater resident. Brightwater At Home client.


Brightwater Oats Street Art Therapy Program.32 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 33

Brightwater Oats Street Art Therapy Program.32 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 33

This relationship has not just

changed the lives of individuals

it has enriched all of our staff.

Ian has autism and had come to work at Brightwater through a relationship between Brightwater Linen and the Autism Association of WA. Under this program Brightwater Linen employs clients of the Autism Association of WA to work in the laundry site in Malaga.

When Ian first began working, other staff happily increased their productivity to fill short term gaps while Ian learnt his job, without request or encouragement from management.

Ian has now been an employee of Brightwater Linen for nine years. He is no longer the same man who wouldn’t make eye contact with anyone. He now loves to socialise with staff and shared his birthday this year with some of them.

Ian has also been able to develop different skills and has moved to a different section, where he is no longer continually supported and has increased his productivity from 40% to 85%.

Darren Woolcott, Manager at Brightwater Linen, places great value on the relationship and acknowledges that it is not just the Autism Association who has gained from the relationship.

Employees at Brightwater Linen have developed skills in working with people with disabilities and the culture within the workplace is clearly one of inclusion and acceptance. This is, in part, thanks to the relationship with the Autism Association.

“Working together with the Autism Association has been a great experience. It really is a win-win partnership for both sides,” said Darren.

When Ian began working at Brightwater Linen, he was reluctant to look at anyone and had to be supported to do his job by a support worker.MOre ThaN JuST a

PLACE To WoRk

Pat, Joan and Susan employees of Brightwater Linen.

Ian, employee at Brightwater Linen.34 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 35

This relationship has not just

changed the lives of individuals

it has enriched all of our staff.

Ian has autism and had come to work at Brightwater through a relationship between Brightwater Linen and the Autism Association of WA. Under this program Brightwater Linen employs clients of the Autism Association of WA to work in the laundry site in Malaga.

When Ian first began working, other staff happily increased their productivity to fill short term gaps while Ian learnt his job, without request or encouragement from management.

Ian has now been an employee of Brightwater Linen for nine years. He is no longer the same man who wouldn’t make eye contact with anyone. He now loves to socialise with staff and shared his birthday this year with some of them.

Ian has also been able to develop different skills and has moved to a different section, where he is no longer continually supported and has increased his productivity from 40% to 85%.

Darren Woolcott, Manager at Brightwater Linen, places great value on the relationship and acknowledges that it is not just the Autism Association who has gained from the relationship.

Employees at Brightwater Linen have developed skills in working with people with disabilities and the culture within the workplace is clearly one of inclusion and acceptance. This is, in part, thanks to the relationship with the Autism Association.

“Working together with the Autism Association has been a great experience. It really is a win-win partnership for both sides,” said Darren.

When Ian began working at Brightwater Linen, he was reluctant to look at anyone and had to be supported to do his job by a support worker.MOre ThaN JuST a

PLACE To WoRk

Pat, Joan and Susan employees of Brightwater Linen.

Ian, employee at Brightwater Linen.34 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 35

We are like a big family

who support each other

through ups and downs

“I started working for The Homes of Peace almost 30 years ago because I wanted to save money for a colour television,” says Joan Prior who works at Brightwater Linen. “I enjoyed working there right from the start and never really wanted to leave. We are like a big family who supports each other through ups and downs.”

Susan Samuels, who has been working for Brightwater for almost as long as Joan, remembers the original laundry well. “It was a tin shed in the backyard at the original Subiaco site. There were 15 people working there who only washed a small amount of the residents’ clothes. The bulk of all laundry was done by an external provider,” she says.

“Originally when we ordered linen you never knew what you would get. Staff started hoarding linen wherever they could find a place due to the unreliability of the external provider. You would find linen in broom closets, clients’ wardrobes and the staff rooms.

Once Brightwater decided to start doing all laundry themselves the problems stopped, and we suddenly had a lot more storage space,” says Joan.

Joan also recalls an incident early on when she thought she did the right thing by washing all the curtains in one of the houses. However, she put them in the washing machine which made them all come out in small bits and pieces.

When her Manager found out she started laughing and said she wasn’t surprised the curtains disintegrated. They hadn’t been washed in years.

She said that this would never happen now. There are exact processes in place on how to wash all linen. “It’s great to see how Brightwater Linen has evolved so much during the time I have been here. There are now 185 people working here. Originally we had to wash and iron all laundry by hand. Now we have big machines helping us do the work,” says Joan.

It is a rare thing these days for people to remain in their workplace for long periods of time but Joan and Susan are exceptions to the rule.LOOk hOW

FAR WE’VE CoME

Susan, Joan and Pat (left to right), employees at Brightwater Linen.

Historic images of Brightwater staff.


We are like a big family

who support each other

through ups and downs

“I started working for The Homes of Peace almost 30 years ago because I wanted to save money for a colour television,” says Joan Prior who works at Brightwater Linen. “I enjoyed working there right from the start and never really wanted to leave. We are like a big family who supports each other through ups and downs.”

Susan Samuels, who has been working for Brightwater for almost as long as Joan, remembers the original laundry well. “It was a tin shed in the backyard at the original Subiaco site. There were 15 people working there who only washed a small amount of the residents’ clothes. The bulk of all laundry was done by an external provider,” she says.

“Originally when we ordered linen you never knew what you would get. Staff started hoarding linen wherever they could find a place due to the unreliability of the external provider. You would find linen in broom closets, clients’ wardrobes and the staff rooms.

Once Brightwater decided to start doing all laundry themselves the problems stopped, and we suddenly had a lot more storage space,” says Joan.

Joan also recalls an incident early on when she thought she did the right thing by washing all the curtains in one of the houses. However, she put them in the washing machine which made them all come out in small bits and pieces.

When her Manager found out she started laughing and said she wasn’t surprised the curtains disintegrated. They hadn’t been washed in years.

She said that this would never happen now. There are exact processes in place on how to wash all linen. “It’s great to see how Brightwater Linen has evolved so much during the time I have been here. There are now 185 people working here. Originally we had to wash and iron all laundry by hand. Now we have big machines helping us do the work,” says Joan.

It is a rare thing these days for people to remain in their workplace for long periods of time but Joan and Susan are exceptions to the rule.LOOk hOW

FAR WE’VE CoME

Susan, Joan and Pat (left to right), employees at Brightwater Linen.

Historic images of Brightwater staff.


PurPOSe, PhILOSOPhY, VALUES AND GoALS

Our PurPOse

‘Enabling Wellbeing’ It is about providing people with the means, knowledge, opportunity and strength to achieve their desired level of contentment.

Our PhilOsOPhy

Our philosophy of Personhood is based on the concept of Person Centred Care and underpins the way we expect our staff to relate to all our clients and to each other.

The Personhood principles are fundamental, and form the link between our values and our purpose.

Our Brightwater gOal

Brightwater will enable more people to enjoy life’s possibilities, by actively engaging with individuals and communities to deliver innovative, connected and responsive services.

Our focus will continue to be people who are ageing or who have a neurological disability.

We will continue to use our specialist capability to respond to unmet needs and service gaps.

We will design and deliver new services, incorporating research and new technology to better meet customer needs.

We will use our knowledge and depth of experience to develop innovative business models to benefit more people.

Care

learning

innOvatiOn

PeOPle

We care about and for each other.

We continually respond to our own and other people’s changing needs.

We harness our creative energy and transform it into activities and outcomes that make a difference.

We recognise and respect each other and every person and value all the relationships which connect us.

Our values

William, resident at Brightwater Balcatta.38 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 39

PurPOSe, PhILOSOPhY, VALUES AND GoALS

Our PurPOse

‘Enabling Wellbeing’ It is about providing people with the means, knowledge, opportunity and strength to achieve their desired level of contentment.

Our PhilOsOPhy

Our philosophy of Personhood is based on the concept of Person Centred Care and underpins the way we expect our staff to relate to all our clients and to each other.

The Personhood principles are fundamental, and form the link between our values and our purpose.

Our Brightwater gOal

Brightwater will enable more people to enjoy life’s possibilities, by actively engaging with individuals and communities to deliver innovative, connected and responsive services.

Our focus will continue to be people who are ageing or who have a neurological disability.

We will continue to use our specialist capability to respond to unmet needs and service gaps.

We will design and deliver new services, incorporating research and new technology to better meet customer needs.

We will use our knowledge and depth of experience to develop innovative business models to benefit more people.

Care

learning

innOvatiOn

PeOPle

We care about and for each other.

We continually respond to our own and other people’s changing needs.

We harness our creative energy and transform it into activities and outcomes that make a difference.

We recognise and respect each other and every person and value all the relationships which connect us.

Our values

William, resident at Brightwater Balcatta.38 Brightwater 2013 Yearbook 39

Brightwater Care grOuP (inC)

PO Box 792 Osborne Park WA 6916

telephone (08) 9202 2800 Facsimile (08) 9202 2801 email [email protected]

www.brightwatergroup.com

Brightwater Care Group (Inc) is a registered charity and all donations are tax deductible.

Published by: Brightwater Care Group (Inc).

ABN: 23 445 460 050

Design: Rare

Photographers: Frances Andrijich, Tobey Black, Samuel Goh and Ross Wallace

For a copy of the Annual Report 2012–13 download from www.brightwatergroup.com or contact Brightwater Care Group on 08 9202 2800 or email [email protected]

Front Cover: Sam resides at Brightwater Kailis House and took part in the Holiday Program this year.

Documents

Brightwater 2013 year book