March 21, 2024
by Courtney Dunn
Blog
Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2024
March 21st marks a significant day on the global calendar – World Down Syndrome Day. It’s a d...
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There’s no doubt your everyday life has changed as a result of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). With the World Health Organisation (WHO) officially classifying the disease as a pandemic, it’s important that we work together to keep each other safe.
Breakthru is working hard to ensure we do the right thing to protect our employees, customers, friends and family from the spread of COVID-19. This means we are operating under the advice of current government health recommendations and evolving our approach as new information becomes readily available.
What is Breakthru doing right now?
The health and safety of our customers and staff is our main priority. We need to minimise the spread of COVID-19 while still offering support to our customers.
To ensure we’re taking the best approach to keep everyone safe, we are working closely with the Department of Health, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and Department of Social Services (DSS).
Breakthru is increasing focus on your safety by:
- Monitoring the situation daily
- Reinforcing our hand washing and infection control precautions
- Practising social distancing while considering the needs of our customers
- Respecting customer choice and control as to how and when they receive their supports
Our COVID19 Response Team meets daily to monitor developments and adjust advice as needed.
What should customers do?
While the Coronavirus situation is ongoing and evolving, we ask that our customers:
- Wash your hands before, during and after engaging with staff or fellow participants (and remind others to do the same)
- Tell us if you are feeling unwell and do not attend your appointments (and we will do the same)
- Look at ways we can support you remotely (using video or phone appointments where possible)
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Practice social distancing (see flyer for details)
What if I feel unwell?
If you feel unwell, check your symptoms online on the Health Direct website. Alternatively, call your doctor for an over-the-phone assessment before booking an appointment. If you’re unable to reach your doctor, call Health Direct on 1800 020 222 to speak with a nurse.
More information
If you have questions about Coronavirus and how it affects you, we suggest calling the Australian Government National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. You can also access up to date information on your State Government’s Department of Health website
For Breakthru related questions, we encourage customers or carers to reach out directly to your Breakthru staff member. You can also reach us on 1800 767 212 or email [email protected]
Latest Updates
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that disability services are classified as an essential service by the National Cabinet. This means the Australian Government will offer additional support to aid service providers like Breakthru to continue providing care for our customers.
The NDIA also released a dedicated information page on Coronavirus including easy reading documentation for carers and participants.
Services Australia have developed new resources about COVID-19 supports for customers and communities. These new resources include:
Translated audio files about Centrelink payment and access options
Short videos in English on a range of Centrelink and COVID-19 related topics
The MyAusCOVID-19 App is now available for download on the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android). We strongly encourage anyone reading this article download the app if you haven’t done so already.
