Southern Cross Care (SCC) has been awarded a Lotterywest grant of more than $260,000 to further enhance their aged care facilities.
The Minister for Local Government, Community Services, Youth, and Seniors and Volunteering Tony Simpson made the announcement at Donovan House Respite Centre in Forrestfield on September 4.
The funding will be used to assist seven facilities operated by SCC, most of which focus on caring for people with dementia.
SCC will now be able to purchase equipment including kitchenware, art supplies and musical instruments to aid in its care for residents and clients with dementia.
Spokesperson for SCC Inga Norgrove said the funding boost had come at a perfect time.
“As a not for profit organisation, ongoing funding is important to help us to continue to expand our services, particularly in the area of dementia care,” she said.
“There is certainly a growing demand for dementia services and these services require specialist care and specifically designed facilities which are costly.”
Additionally, SCC’s facility in Broome will receive a new commuter bus with a wheelchair hoist, allowing staff to transport residents more easily.
Ms Norgrove said the bus would be a major help to the carers in Broome.
“This new bus will allow staff to be self-sufficient in transporting residents to planned and routine activities, medical and specialist appointments,” she said.
“It will also give residents the ability to participate in social activities and outings in the local community, and allows a greater degree of flexibility and spontaneity in the provision of leisure and recreational activities.”