Standing with our national aged care network
January 19, 2022
The Uniting Friends of Ageing (UFA) is holding their second national conversation at 4 pm (AEDT) Thursday 10 February via Zoom.
UFA is a national network of Uniting Church people concerned about ageing and aged care, established by UnitingCare Australia in mid-2021. The gathering is open to all interested people.
The February conversation will discuss local concerns as well as national developments in aged care, COVID, and the May Federal election. If you would like to join, please email Warren Talbot (warrent@nat.unitingcare.org.au) and Warren will send you the Zoom link. Or you can phone Warren on 0466 310 243 and share your concerns.
Uniting Church in Australia President Rev Sharon Hollis wrote to the UCA’s national aged care network in January to offer the support and prayers of the church amid the significant ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19.
The letter comes as the exponential spread of the highly infectious Omicron variant places an enormous burden on aged care systems across the country, disrupting access to needed resources and stretching the workforce.
“As Australia - and the world - enters our third year of the COVID pandemic; you, the staff, and all clients of our Uniting Church run aged care services have been in my heart, on my mind and in my prayers,” said Rev Hollis.
“I wanted to write as the President of the Uniting Church and let you know of our pride in all that you do. We, the broader Uniting Church, are with you every step of the way during what is a very difficult time for you all.
“Your work does not go unnoticed. I’m so grateful for your professionalism and commitment. I know that the dedicated staff throughout the UnitingCare network, including management and Board members, are working extremely hard to address these major challenges.
“I am also particularly conscious of the additional stresses placed on our many aged care residents, their families, and all those provided support at home, many of whom are on their own. We know you are doing your very best to keep them safe and well.
“You will be in my thoughts and prayers, and the prayers of the Uniting Church across Australia as you continue your wonderful work.”
As aged care providers continue to work to offer the best possible quality care and support for thousands of older Australians, the President encouraged Uniting Church members to reach out to those working in aged care or any aged care services in their local community to express their thanks, support and prayer.