Helping the Sydney community with relationships, parenting, ageing, disability, pastoral services and mental wellbeing.
Before moving into her role as a Care Partner, Sam started out her career working as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse. Working so close with other Care Partners, Sam saw great value in supporting older Australians receive the care they need to navigate this new experience.
Working as a Care Partner with clinical experience has made Sam a crucial member of the Home Care team. Working with her clients, she’s able to create a safe space for them to thrive in their independence, with the unique ability to provide an extra level of clinical care.
With CatholicCare Sydney, Sam is surrounded by a team of like-minded people with the experience and empathy to make a real difference every day.
Support at Home
With the new Aged Care Act, she’s seen how difficult the process can be for older Australians. “It’s been challenging to understand the new system, which was rolled out last November,” she says. “It’s been a bit surprising.”
As someone who enjoys connecting with people, Sam has always gone the extra mile to make sure her clients were always aware of these new changes and how to navigate them.
Building lasting connections
Sam’s days are never the same. Working with such different clients, she’s finding a sense of joy and excitement that comes with connecting with people every day. “I really enjoy getting to listen to their life stories.”
She describes the importance of being an advocate for her clients, especially those who have had difficult past experiences. “When you work so closely and intimately with someone, trust is crucial,” she explains. “Over time, I can build trust through communication and ongoing care and get our relationship to a place where they feel safe and supported.”
A memorable experience Sam has had with CatholicCare Sydney was pushing for extra support for a client. “I was able to get an upgrade to their support level really quickly after a change in circumstances,” she says. Ensuring clients are receiving an appropriate and sufficient level of support is essential for her clients in her eyes.
Upliftingolder Australians’ voices
Sam finds a great joy in helping her clients thrive in their Home Care journey. She sees great value in taking the time for connection. “I enjoy listening to their stories and learning about the lives they’ve lived,” she says.
She’s also passionate about creating a world where older people can continue to live and grow safely and comfortable. “I enjoy being an advocate for older people in our community,” she says. “It’s important to create a space where they can be free from ageism and patronising attitudes. Providing great care is all about their rights and their choices.”
Reach out to the Home Care Services team below to learn more about how we can support you.