COVID-19 information for HCO community
South Australia is facing significant challenges in responding to the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). In line with our commitment to the health and safety of HCO Clients and Staff, we are closely following all government directions and advice.
We take this opportunity to assure you that HCO continues to monitor Health Department and other Government information and applying this across our services and in our planning processes.
We have implemented several positive actions across our Organisation:
- Communicating frequently with Staff about COVID-19 and what they can do to keep themselves and Clients well
- Monitoring and reviewing our COVIDSafe plan
- Reviewing guidelines around monitoring of visitors
- Mandatory online infection control and hygiene measures refresher training for all Staff
- Advanced infection control training for Team Leaders and other key Staff
- Reviewing and updating contingencies in the event we have a number of Staff and/or Clients become unwell
- Holding adequate stocks of hygiene and infection control supplies
- Implementing the Emergency Directive and implementing vaccination requirements for Staff.
We continue to need your help in managing any issues from COVID-19 in the community. For example, if a person we support becomes unwell with flu like symptoms it is important that we are notified and they do not attend services until recovered for their own well-being and that of others.
We work very hard to ensure services are delivered as agreed across all service areas but at this time some changes will be necessary in relation to location, timing, the activities undertaken and or the Staff member who attends. If any COVID-19 related issues arise, we will communicate with you about any changes.
If you are feeling unwell or a person you support is unwell, the current health advice is to phone your GP clinic or the Health Direct Hotline on 1800 020 080 to discuss what is the most appropriate thing to do, but of course, in an emergency call 000.
We will communicate further with you if any critical information becomes available. We are very mindful of the consequences for families and Clients when services are disrupted so we will act in a very considered way but one that puts the safety and well-being of Clients and Staff first.
Please do not hesitate to contact your Team Leader if you have any questions.
Further information and handy links
- SA Health website for latest information on local health alerts and information
- The Australian Government Department of Health website provides general information on COVID-19
- The Australian Government Department of Health website provides advice for people living with disability on COVID-19
- SA Health website for latest information on local health alerts and information
- The Australian Government Department of Health website provides general information on COVID-19
- The Australian Government Department of Health website provides advice for people living with disability on COVID-19
- Reminder that HCO has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counselling or advice.
- NDIS participant fact sheet: What to expect from providers and support workers
- NDIS participant fact sheet (easy read version): What to expect from providers and support workers
- Australian Government information sheet on Social distancing
- Australian Government Easy-read on Social distancing
- Download an Easy-read file – Easy read stay at home_update
- Domestic violence and family support services PDF
- Handy tips for coping with COVID-19 anxiety PDF
- Skylight mental health brochure
- Reminder that HCO has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counselling or advice.
- You can also phone the National COVID-19 Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. This service runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 45
Stay safe at the shops
Going shopping for food is something we all need to do.
But for now, with Coronavirus, we need to take extra steps to avoid getting sick.
Good hand washing technique
Just a reminder that hand hygiene is our biggest defence against infection spread in our services....
How to fit and remove protective gloves
Downloadable PDF file with illustrations showing the process of safely putting on, and then removing protective gloves.