Local men and their families are protesting changes to their weekly men’s group, which they say reduce activities but now forces them to pay extra to attend.
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First, members of the Intereach men’s group were told their regular day trips would be stopped.
Then they received letters saying they would now have to pay an out-of-pocket fee to participate in the in-house activities each week.
This new structure will also apply to other Commonwealth Home Support Programme user groups.
The Pastoral Times understands many are considering leaving the men’s group, out of frustration, before the new government imposed fee structure comes into effect on July 1.
Laurie Dawson is one of the group members disillusioned by the changes.
His wife Mary said other group members and their families are also concerned the new format will not be stimulating enough.
And she said the new out-of-pocket expense may be out of reach for some.
“The outings were 90 per cent local, and they were great because the men want that outside interaction,” Mrs Dawson said.
“The men’s group has little purpose at present, and the men are losing interest in the programs that are being delivered.
“Sitting in a room at Intereach is not stimulating or of any interest to senior men.
“And especially not if they have to now pay $7.70 per hour to do so.
“Some men do not leave their homes, and Tuesday men’s group is a weekly outing they look forward to.
“They so enjoyed trips around town, attending local events, trips to country pubs, visiting farms and small towns and lunch at different venues.
“I understand there are all these government rules and regulations, but it’s so sad and we want to know if more can be done to bring them back.”
When Mrs Dawson queried the changes with Intereach, she received a response which said the decision “is part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring we meet aged care standards” and that a review was taking place.
After being approached by the Pastoral Times for further information, Intereach co-CEO Michelle Tai said the outings may resume in the near future.
“To ensure compliance with program standards, Intereach has temporarily paused Commonwealth Home Support Programme-funded group outings in Deniliquin,” she said.
“This is an interim measure while we review transport arrangements and consult our clients to incorporate their feedback into future planning and resume outings as soon as possible.
“We will keep clients informed throughout this process.”
Mrs Dawson said until outings can be resumed, Intereach must actively consult affected group members to develop programs that will satisfy their needs and interests.
But she said even with that, the new pricing structure may see attendance in the group dwindle.
Mrs Dawson said the new hourly price equates to about $60 a day for men’s group members alone.
And meals will now also be invoiced separately, which she said is another cost some can ill afford.
Ms Tai said changes to the group attendance fees for Home Care Package (HCP) recipients attending CHSP groups “reflect government requirements”.
“As outlined in the CHSP Manual 2024–2025, HCP clients who previously accessed CHSP groups may continue attending, however CHSP guidelines state that HCP funds cannot be used to pay CHSP client contributions,” Ms Tai explained.
“This is because HCP and CHSP are separate government-funded aged care programs, designed to meet different levels of support.
“Discussions are planned with impacted HCP recipients regarding group attendance fees, in line with CHSP program guidelines.
“Fees cover operating costs, including staff support. CHSP is intended for people with lower care needs, while HCP is tailored to those needing more complex or ongoing support.
“Services available for clients are based on an assessment of their individual needs and goals.
“Intereach understands that these changes have raised concerns within the Tuesday men’s group, and we are working with participants to support them through the process.
“We are committed to delivering services fairly, responsibly, and in line with national obligations.”
Ms Tai said anyone experiencing financial hardship is encouraged to speak directly with their care co-ordinator to discuss available options.
This includes measures under Intereach’s hardship policy.
Senior journalist