Chairman, Mark Tronson, has identified other respite providers in both Victoria and Tasmania.
"Some of these Missions are unsure as to how they might best care for Christian people needing respite," he revealed. "So I am in the process of facilitating ways that such respite providers can connect and support each other in a variety of ways, from simply linking to a web site to a possible gathering for a day mini-conference."
He commented further that those who are already in touch with each other are finding that these initial connections are proving helpful. He is aware of respite providers in other States who have already expressed interest in some form of connection and more than willing to share insights and gather wisdom for improving their provisions of care.
Some of the areas that "providers" would like to discuss with each other are:
a) at what point should contact be made with the guests and what form should that contact be;
b) what sort of tourist information should be provided within the facility and should a working desk be part of this process;
c) should larger groups be 'invited' to help with maintenance chores or gardening;
d) how much of this should be 'spelt out' in a set of regulations, and how much left to the good intentions of the guests.
It is mundane issues like this, that the casual observer may not even think about, and these will take a life of their own in a fresh format when respite providers meet for discussion.
Mark Tronson of Well-Being Australia welcomes contact by respite providers at this early stage to at the very least establish a register of like-minded respite carers. timeout@bushorchestra.com