The Residents’ Committee and the meaning of ‘Community’ at Eloura
Community Spirit: A Perspective on ‘Belonging’ at Eloura
In the heart of Quirindi, New South Wales, lies Eloura Aged Care Facility, a beacon of community spirit. Within Eloura, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie is as essential as providing quality care to its residents. This spirit finds its expression through the collaborative efforts of the Resident’s Committee and outstanding volunteers, which epitomise the tight-knit community fabric of Quirindi and the Liverpool Plains region.
Residents’ Committee: Empowering Voices for Best Outcomes
Central to Eloura’s ethos is the Residents’ Committee, led by long-term resident Glen Rampton for the past eight years, alongside committee members Maria Goodacre, Valerie Charters, Jim Spradbrow, and Daphne Barnett. This committee empowers residents, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions impacting their lives. Glen emphasises, “The input from the various committee members is invaluable.” Additionally, the committee regularly invites guests, including Kim, usually a Board member, someone from Lifestyle Team, and often an outside representative from varied organisations or companies, to provide diverse perspectives. Family and friends of residents are always welcome as well, fostering inclusivity and transparency within the community.
The Residents’ Committee meets monthly to discuss relevant matters. They cover various topics, including meal quality and delivery, staff performance, management decisions, and COVID-19 concerns. Positive outcomes from new procedures are also celebrated. These discussions aim to enhance resident satisfaction and maintain a supportive environment.
Moreover, the Resident’s Committee takes the lead in organising the ‘Flower of the Month’ initiative. This program enables residents to nominate staff members who exemplify selflessness and positivity in their interactions with both residents and fellow staff. The chosen nominee is honoured with a “Certificate for a Valued Employee,” showcased in the foyer alongside a vase of flowers for the ensuing month. At the end of the month, the selected staff member takes home the certificate, accompanied by a heartfelt thank-you card from the residents and a $25.00 Quirindi ‘Shop Local’ voucher.
The Consumer Advisory Body: Another Essential Avenue of Input
The QCS Consumer Advisory Body serves as another essential avenue, akin to the Residents’ Committee, for stakeholders to contribute to the quality of care at Eloura Aged Care Facility. Comprising residents, family members, staff, and community representatives, this advisory body facilitates open discussions to ensure that Eloura maintains its commitment to excellence. With the overarching objective of providing an environment where residents feel at home, safe, and valued, the QCS Consumer Advisory Body plays a pivotal role in fostering transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in the delivery of care at Eloura.
Outstanding Volunteers: Enriching Lives
Beyond Eloura’s walls, volunteers from Quirindi’s community enrich the lives of residents. They organise outings, shopping trips, and coffee dates, fostering connections and ensuring residents remain integrated within the larger community. Glen acknowledges these volunteers’ invaluable contribution, stating, “These kind people truly enrich our community, and our residents appreciate them immensely.
Driving Excellence in Community Care
Reflecting on recent changes, Glen notes, “Eloura is running better now than it has ever been. Staff morale is higher than ever, and the place ticks over so well.” This commitment to excellence extends beyond care provision to cultivating a vibrant community where residents feel valued and supported.
More than a Care Facility
Operated as part of Quirindi Care Services, Eloura, along with its Independent Living Units works to embody a sense of community and collaboration where families come together, visitors leave content, and the elderly are revered.
As Glen aptly summarises, “We are very fortunate here.” In an era where human connection is paramount, Eloura stands as a testament to the profound impact of fostering a sense of belonging and community among its residents.
