Merri Health

It's R U OK? Day and we're encouraging you to not only check in on your loved ones today - but any day.

A lot can change in a week, a month, or a year. Your loved ones face daily ups and downs, and they're not alone—72% of Australians report elevated distress. Ask R U OK? any day, because life happens every day.

Learn more about our counselling services: https://loom.ly/TcRv6ts

Need extra support? Call us at 1300 637 744 (Mon-Fri, 1-3pm) and ask to be put through to our drop-in service: https://loom.ly/atNLSOE

Is Merri Health important to you and your health and wellbeing? Don’t miss the chance to share your thoughts.

Your answers will help us understand the difference community health is making in helping keep you healthy and well.

Take the survey and be in with a chance to win a $50 grocery voucher here: https://forms.gle/wv1Zp8UyWTFZPVqD9

Closes Wednesday 18 September.

Do you care for someone living with dementia? Come along for a FREE, hands-on event to help build a dementia friendly future! It’s the perfect chance to learn, ask questions, and connect with others. 🤝

Meet dementia professionals, stretch out with some chair yoga, and unwind with mindfulness meditation—all while enjoying light refreshments! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️

For more information or to register click here: https://loom.ly/Z_alQ2s

Event Details:
📅 Wednesday 18 September
⏰ 12:30pm - 3:00pm
📍 Royal Melbourne Hospital Health Education Centre, 34-54 Poplar Road, Parkville

Proudly supported by The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Merri Health, Australian Multicultural Community Services, and Dementia Australia.

Free hands-on dementia support Free hands-on dementia support Details Date September 18 2024 Time 12:30pm - 3:00pm Address Royal Melbourne Hospital Health Education Centre, 34-54 Poplar Road, Parkville Come along for a FREE, hands-on event to help build a dementia friendly future! Meet dementia professionals, stretch out with som...

If you are a carer, the Australian Government is working on a new National Carer Strategy and want to hear from you!

This is your chance to share what matters most to you and help shape future support for carers.

Time is running out to have your say. Submissions close on 13 September!
Visit https://engage.dss.gov.au/national-carer-strategy/ for more info.

The Australian Government is developing a new National Carer Strategy. As part of that work we want to hear from carers across the country about what is important to them.

Carers, former carers, the carer support sector and the public are invited to provide submissions to inform the development of the Strategy.

A discussion paper is available that outlines some of the issues relevant to carers and includes some questions that contributors may wish to address. For carers short on time a series of free form questions is available, with the option to answer as many or as few as they wish.

Go to https://engage.dss.gov.au/national-carer-strategy/ for more information. Submissions close 13 September 2024.

At Merri Health we're here to help you get the best from your Home Care Package. Our dedicated team will work with you to maximise your package and to help you to live at home longer.

Find out how we can support you by calling 8319 7430 or visit https://loom.ly/2qyD6oE

Home Care Packages Services Aged care Current: Home Care Packages Home Care Packages Helping you stay living in your home and community for longer. What is a Home Care Package? A Home Care Package (HCP) provides subsidised services and support to older people who have complex or changing needs. It is designed to help....

The Carer Gateway Advisory Group are an incredible group of people from across Victoria who bring their unique insights and perspectives to help improve our services.

Recently, the group came together in Mt. Macedon to experience an interest-based training session, focusing on influencing decision-makers, governance, advisory committee skills and more!

A big thank you to this wonderful bunch of humans who are passionate about improving care for their fellow carers! Carer representation is crucial for informing and shaping the free support services that Carer Gateway provides.

If you are a carer and would like some support, call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 between 8am and 5pm, Mon – Fri, or visit www.carergateway.gov.au to learn more about out how we can support your caring role.

Fantastic to have Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler MP and Local Member for Wills Peter Khalil MP meet Dental and GP clients, staff and tour our Brunswick site today!

They explored our community-focused dental and medical services, innovative plans for a new health hub in the North, and how our vast services are supporting our diverse community and improving health outcomes.

Clients and staff shared their experiences at the Brunswick Community Medical Centre, where we focus on holistic support and better care.

Find out more: https://loom.ly/WnC8lFU

Are you a carer? You’re invited to our 2024 Carers Week Event!

On October 12th, Carer Gateway is hosting a special family day at Grazeland in Melbourne, and we’d love for you to join us! 🌟

There will be dozens of food and drink stalls, live music, roving entertainers and the opportunity to connect with other carers; Best of all, it’s on us!

📅 Date: Saturday, October 12
📍 Location: Grazeland, 20 Booker St, Spotswood
⏰Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
🎫Cost: Free! Maximum of four tickets per carer.

Tickets are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot now!

Register here: https://loom.ly/NMC0ksc

Carer Gateway is an Australian Government Initiative that provides free support services tailored to the needs of unpaid carers. National Carers Week (Sunday 13th to Saturday 19th October) is our chance to celebrate your invaluable contributions to the community.

Fantastic to join Senator the Hon Penny Wong - Senator for SA and Peter Khalil MP to celebrate women in leadership today!

Merri Health CEO Tassia Michaleas joined other local leaders to champion our support for culturally and linguistically diverse communities; and a shared passion to build an inclusive community.

We partner with local community members from culturally diverse backgrounds through our 'Community Champions' program to help increase participation, inclusion and safety in Merri-bek. See more: https://loom.ly/szcgPoQ

Anyone can become a carer at anytime. Gary didn’t expect to be living with his dad and his dad’s girlfriend at the age of 45, but he knew the opportunity to spend the extra time with his dad would be worth it.

Over 750,000 Victorians are caring for a friend or family member living with a health condition, disability, mental illness or who is frail due to age.

Check out Gary's story below and how Carer Gateway supports him. Visit: https://loom.ly/JHl7dA4

Carer Gateway Campaign Case Study Gary F

🌈💜It's Wear it Purple Day! Merri Health stands with LGBTIQA+ youth, as 66% still face bullying for their identity. As a proud Rainbow Tick accredited organisation, we’re dedicated to ending this and creating a safe space for all.

Today, our staff are wearing purple, embracing this year's theme: "Your Passion, Your Pride."

Our Q Health service offers non-judgemental, queer-affirmative counselling. Learn more: https://loom.ly/LbKYO4Q

Rainbow crew is an online support group for Rainbow Carers, email [email protected] or call 9076 6644 to find out more.

Minus18 The Alfred

Parenting can be stressful and create new tensions for any couple. Our FREE Family Foundations program is here to help!

Whether you're expecting a baby or have preschool-aged children, we provide the tools needed to co-parent with confidence, strengthen relationships and reduce conflicts at home.

This unique home-based and group support program is delivered by expert coaches and available to all Victorians co-parenting a child aged 0-5. Discover more: https://loom.ly/b40Z6qw

Family Foundations: support for new parents Services Child and family Current: Family Foundations: support for new parents Family Foundations: support for new parents Education program for parents expecting and with children 0 - 5 years What is it? Family Foundations is a 10-session program for parenting partners who have a child under 5 or a...

Improve your financial skills and take care of your health! Join our free session and learn how to access concession rates, tips for managing bills and debts, how to eat healthy even on a tight budget and more!

📅 When: Monday 26 August at 1.30pm - 2:30pm
📍 Location: Broadmeadows Library, 1093 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows
💸 Cost: Free
👥 Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in Health & Wellbeing

Seats are limited, so please book your place by calling (03) 9356 6900 or view more information at https://loom.ly/zJx-F9Q

Learn to eat well on a budget - FREE session Learn to eat well on a budget - FREE session Details Date August 26 2024 Time 1:30pm - 2:30pm Address Broadmeadows Library, 1093 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows About this event Join our seminar and hear from one of our Dietitians and Mortgage Stress Victoria for insights on managing your budget and....

Are you a First Nations carer? Join us in September for “Honouring You”; a free 3-session program focused on storytelling, connection, and self-sovereignty.

Facilitated by Yolanda Finette, a proud Yorta Yorta woman, this program is designed for First Nations carers and will provide tools to manage emotions and navigate challenges by tapping into ancestral strength and knowledge. Morning tea is provided!

Dates and times: Wednesdays, 4/09, 11/09, 18/09, 10am to 12pm
Location: Barrbunin Beek Gathering Place, Catalina Street, Heidelberg West

🔗 Click the link to book your spot! https://loom.ly/JTJOjIQ

This program is available to registered First Nations carers only.

Did You Know…??? Over 3 million Australians are now unpaid carers.

758,500 of these are in Victoria alone — up 10% from 2018.

Unpaid carers face higher rates of loneliness, depression, health challenges, and financial stress compared with the general population.

If you or someone you know is a carer, let them know Carer Gateway is here to help! We offer free support services to make your caring role easier – especially when things get tough.

Call us at 1800 422 737 (8am–5pm, Mon–Fri) or visit our website: https://loom.ly/V-H3pn8

New bigger spaces for physiotherapy, podiatry and innovative funky carpet for dementia patients are now at Glenroy!

The brightly coloured flooring helps patients find their way through the building, and more services are available in our improved spaces.

We're making healthcare a more positive experience for communities and looking for more ways to improve our sites!

🦷 Teeth for life! What an incredible day at the Dental Health Services Victoria Public Oral Health Conference with over 400 attendees!

Our Smiles 4 Miles program took the spotlight, celebrating 20 years of teaching kids healthy habits for strong teeth. Plus, our Dental Manager joined a panel to share how value-based healthcare puts patients first.

2,500+ kids across 17 schools have received free dental care through Merri Health's Smile Squad in the past year! Find out how we can keep your child’s teeth healthy for life: https://loom.ly/t0gEueg

Did you know over 100,000 Victorians are living with dementia? 🌟 Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) offers a proven way to boost thinking skills and improve quality of life.

Merri Health’s CST program builds confidence and maximises potential for people living with dementia, while also offering essential support to their carers.

Recently, we presented at the 5th CST Conference in Hong Kong, showcasing our partnership with the University of Canberra and CST efforts across Australia.

Curious about how CST can help you or a loved one? Find out more here: https://loom.ly/ZndiZWk

The University of Hong Kong

Memory loss and dementia support Services Aged care Current: Memory loss and dementia support Memory loss and dementia support Supporting you through memory changes. What is it? Let’s work together to help you understand what you’re experiencing and how to stay independent. We can help you to adapt to memory changes and continu...

Feeling Lonely? You're Not Alone. Did you know that 1 in 4 Australians struggle with persistent loneliness? Merri Health is here to help break the cycle and reconnect you with your community this !

If you are 65 or older, join our Social Support Program! Meet new friends and join in activities you'll love and find the community you've been missing. There is something for everyone!

Discover more for yourself or someone you care about by taking the first step to a connected life at: https://loom.ly/cygjyJ8

🦷✨ Do you know how to care for your gums? Here's 4 easy ways to keep your smile for life:

✅ Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
✅ Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
✅ Eat a healthy, balanced diet and limit added sugar intake
✅ Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and preventive care

Merri Health's Smile Squad brings free dental care to kids and is coming to a school near you!

Learn more here: https://loom.ly/t0gEueg

Dental Health Services Victoria Australian Dental Association

It's time to get creative! Win up to $1,500 in the "Art against Ageism" competition! Use your artistic skills to celebrate older people in our communities - this could be a painting, drawing, the list goes on!

Entries close Sunday 8 September. Find out how to get involved at: amcservices.org.au/artagainstageism/

Our Carer Gateway program is a proud sponsor of this competition!

Australian Multicultural Community Services

Win up to $1,500 and help foster positivity in our senior community. 🖼️ Submit your art online by 𝟖 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟒.

Simply upload your artwork (scan or photograph) with the completed entry form on our website for your chance to win one of 12 cash prizes.

Winners and finalists will have their artwork included in our annual calendar.

Find out more on our website and start creating!
https://ow.ly/qnnu50SOH4z

Has a Merri Health employee made a big difference to your life? 🙌

Nominate them for a Changing Lives award now!

This is your chance to show your appreciation for the remarkable staff members who have made a real difference in your life through the exceptional services they provide.

The winners of the Changing Lives Award will be honoured with a certificate of achievement and a well-deserved $250 gift card! 🎁

🗓️ Don't wait too long! Nominations close Friday, 16th August, at 5 pm. Complete the form using the link below and email it to [email protected] or drop it off at one of our sites.

Nomination Form: https://loom.ly/Jg9VjQg

Changing Lives award Get involved Current: Changing Lives award Changing Lives award Do you know someone at Merri Health that is helping to change lives?Nominate them for a Changing Lives Award today!If you know someone at Merri Health that has helped or is helping to make a difference to your life, your family, loved o...

We are thrilled to be a finalist in the 2024 Allied Health Awards! Our Independent Living Team (ILT) is a finalist in the ‘Innovative Product Excellence’ award category.

Our passionate ILT consists of highly skilled allied health professionals, all working together to support people over 65 in North Metro Melbourne.

Some of our key achievements include:
✅ 100% of participants in our pilot sleep program showed improvements in daytime sleepiness
✅ Launched a first-of-its-kind Parkinson's Disease Group
✅ First community health organisation to partner with Melbourne Ageing Research Collaboration

We're incredibly proud of this achievement—it’s a true testament to our team’s dedication!

The Allied Health Awards celebrate the passion, dedication, and contributions of allied health professionals and teams across Australia.

Winners will be announced on 12 October 2024.

Wrapping up today's announcements, we're proud to present the finalists in the Allied Health Innovative Product Excellence category:

✨ Compeat Performance
✨ Psychology Registrar Endorsement Program (PREP)
✨ Workforce Development Program - Gidget Foundation Australia
✨ Independent Living Team - Merri Health
✨ HealthBank
✨ ONE Rehabilitation Service - Neuroboost
✨ BlackYarns YouTube Channel - Girraway Ganyi Consultancy
✨ 360 GO Graduate Program - National 360
✨ BeTuned
✨ Perceptive Health

A huge congratulations to these teams for pushing the boundaries of innovation in healthcare! 🚀🌟

🎟️ Get your tickets now and be part of this momentous occasion: https://www.alliedhealthawards.com/shop

Did your favorite team make it? Let us know in the comments!

💡💡Get up to $3,000 to bring your idea to life with The Great Idea Program! Got an idea to get women and girls moving in Fawkner, Hadfield, Glenroy or Coburg North?

Whether you’re from a multicultural background or linked to a local sports club, we want to hear from you!

Don’t miss out—applications close Friday 9 August!

Apply now at: https://loom.ly/BkaRX18

The Great Idea Program Get involved Community projects Active Living Current: The Great Idea Program The Great Idea Program Supporting community-led initiatives in Merri-bek’s northern suburbs. Applications are now open! The Great Idea Program, part of the Active Living initiative, champions increased participation, inc...

Did you know that 80% of older Australians struggle to keep up with rapidly changing technology? It was wonderful to share our new, user-friendly tool to improve your website at the National Elder Abuse Conference.

Fantastic to join advocates across Australia, shining a light on elder abuse prevention and exploring innovative solutions through real-life experiences.

Merri Health is proud to lead the Elder Abuse Prevention Networks in the North and West working together to prevent elder abuse.

Check out our audit tool and enhance your website here: https://loom.ly/znaR8II

Thanks to Elder Abuse Action Australia for hosting such an amazing conference!

Elder Abuse Prevention Networks: North and West Metropolitan Regions Merri Health acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as traditional custodians of the land and waters and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.

Don’t miss last week’s episode of the Emerge Australia Imagine Podcast Series with Carer Gateway’s State Manager, Heleni Bagiartakis.

Heleni joined Emerge Australia Inc CEO, Anne Wilson, to share her journey as a passionate community services leader, and discuss how Carer Gateway’s support program is striving to enhance the health and wellbeing of carers and communities across the state.

Click the link or find the ep on your favourite podcast app to listen to the fantastic discussion: www.emerge.org.au/podcast/episode-27-heleni-bagiartakis/

Today we bring you Episode 1 in Season #5 of our podcasts with a focus on Carers.

In this episode, Anne Wilson hosts an enlightening conversation with Carer Gateway State Manager, Heleni Bagiartakis – a passionate community services leader shaping transformational change for current and future generations, especially in diverse communities.

Listen here: https://vist.ly/3eq44

Emerge Australia is proud to be collaborating with Merri Health who lead Carer Gateway in Victoria – a free support service funded by the Australian Government, designed by carers for carers. Carer Gateway is a national, dedicated carer support program providing a range of support and local services to give unpaid carers the support they need. This includes counselling, coaching, connection with other carers, respite, and practical assistance and support particularly tailored to the carer’s needs.

Services are free and available in-person, online or over the phone.

Find out more at carergateway.gov.au or call 1800 422 737, Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm local time. Emergency respite is available 24/7 by calling 1800 422 737.

🌟 How do you lead a health organisation and support communities through the biggest global health crisis in a century? Our CEO Tassia Michaleas shares her journey with Shelley Flett, focusing on people-first, transformational leadership in community health.

From being the first in her family to attend university to leading through the pandemic, Tassia's story is one of passion, resilience, and critical thinking.

Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with real talk and triumphs! Listen now on Spotify: https://loom.ly/wbsRNh4 🎧✨

🎙️🎙️PODCAST - Episode #200. Interview with Merri Health CEO, Tassia Michaleas, about her journey through leadership🎙️🎙️

If there were two words to describe this episode, with Tassia Michaleas, CEO of Merri Health, they would be strength and kindness.

I loved hearing about her journey, including the pressures of being the first in her family to attend university, her beginnings working in a clinical role and the challenges and triumphs of navigating the community health sector through the pandemic.

Tassia has successfully guided organisations through transformational change and health & social services reforms, driven by a passion for authentic, people-focused leadership. It’s a fabulous conversation and one not to miss.

🎙️Take a listen to this episode: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shelley-flett/episodes/Episode-200--Interview-with-Merri-Health-CEO--Tassia-Michaleas--about-her-journey-through-leadership-e2lic40

Dementia-friendly sites, keeping your heart healthy, social groups tackle loneliness, homeless youth dental care, more support for new parents, preventing elder abuse, + much more! 😄

📘 Read the latest MerriNews yet? Check out this edition: https://joom.ag/39td

Want to receive these newsletters electronically? Subscribe now: https://loom.ly/SSC-jnw

Catch-up on the latest community newsletter! Catch-up on the latest community newsletter! Published June 17 2024 Read more about our latest news, research and innovations including:  free homeless youth dental checks  social groups for over 65s tackle loneliness  keeping your heart healthy  dementia-friendly site upgrades  more support fo...