Spring is well and truly here, and in true Victorian fashion we’re regularly having all seasons in one day. I hope you’re emerging from lockdown and have caught up with loved ones, or made plans to.
A COVID vaccination certificate is now the key to accessing most venues in Victoria. You’ll need to show proof of vaccination when you check in. We’ve had a few reports of people without smart phones having trouble checking in, so we want to reassure you that all businesses are required to accept a printed copy of your vaccination certificate and offer an alternative check-in process. This could be a paper system or a kiosk system where the proprietor enters your details into the Service Victoria app. If you’re having trouble, call our COTA WISE information line on 1300 13 50 90.
Spring means the start of pre-budget conversations. The COTA Victoria policy team has worked with older Victorians to identify six focus areas where Victorian government investment is needed to improve the lives of older Victorians. We’ve also launched a groundbreaking mentorship program for women. The Women Working Together pilot will support women aged 50+ to re-enter the workforce. The new pilot has grown from our very successful Reach, Train and Employ project, which has now released its evaluation report.
This month, we also welcome our newest staff member, Angela Zhou, who has joined us as Volunteer Coordinator. The COTA Victoria volunteer program will grow and flourish under Angela’s leadership.
If the pandemic has highlighted anything, it’s the need for personal resilience and an inclusive mental health system to support those who struggle to maintain good mental health. That system needs to be co-designed with the people who use it so that it meets their needs. Read about the establishment of a collaborative centre that is designed to do just that. At the end of November, Seniors Rights Victoria is hosting a webinar on elder abuse and its effect on mental health. We also want to share a range of resources to build understanding and support for LGBTI people living with dementia.
It’s another full newsletter, so sit back and enjoy.
Keep safe.
