“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

It was great to celebrate International Women’s Day in March and to be able to reflect on the wonderful achievements of women in every aspect of our community lives. Importantly late last year, the topic of older Australian Women and the challenges they face was addressed at the National Summit on Women’s Safety and Security for Older Women, where Age Discrimination Commissioner, Dr Kay Patterson, addressed the summit on how gender, ageism and other factors can affect ageing and work life experience.

I was so heartened to hear these topics discussed at such a high profile level. For our McLean Care family workers, this is of great relevance as many of our employees are women and have been with us for a considerable time.

Discussing these topics is important for older women in the workforce and bringing these challenges into greater awareness leads to reform and meaningful change.

We have all seen the devastation caused by the recent floods in NSW and QLD. I am also aware that many older Australians and their families have been impacted by these events and like most Australians we want to do what we can to help, so McLean Care have created a My Cause fundraising page https://bit.ly/3JnUfqi

We understand a critical ongoing need will be unrestricted cash donations to support affected older Australian. Direct cash assistance can allow these people to secure emergency housing, purchase items and contract services locally that address their multiple needs. This will give older Australians flexibility and choice, ensuring that support is relevant, cost-effective and timely. Cash assistance can also help move these people faster towards rebuilding their lives.

We have reached out to our wonderful workforce of over 570+ workers to generously donate to the flood relief efforts. We aim to raise funds that will assist older Australians affected by this natural disaster.

If you would like to help in some other way, The Australian Red Cross, and St Vincent De Paul are accepting donations to provide urgent relief and goods for those affected by the floods.

The Salvation Army is aiming to raise over $10 million to directly support the flood victims and communities along the east coast of Australia.

With everything that has been happening at home and abroad, the uncertainty in Europe and rising living costs due to supply chain issues, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what seems like an endless stream of bad news. I urge you to reach out, to talk to your friends or family or your support worker about how you are feeling and if you need additional support. It’s also helpful to limit your exposure to the reports of the world events from time to time.

I want you to know that you are not alone, and there are practical moves we can all make to adjust, but importantly, find ways to fill up your own cup by spending time doing things you like, with the people you love.

Thank you for being a part of the
McLean Care family.

Sue Thompson – Chief Executive Officer