Recently Australia recorded zero community transmissions of COVID-19. While this is a wonderful achievement for the community we are writing to all our Members, Helpers and staff to ensure we remain vigilant in our approach to COVID-19.
Testing Remains a Priority
If you have cold or flu like symptoms, such as a cough, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath or runny nose, even if these are mild, you should still get tested for COVID-19 as soon as possible. To arrange testing contact your GP or you can visit a COVID-19 testing clinic in your area. Please advise us if you are going to be tested. To find a COVID-19 clinic in your area, visit:
- ACT covid19.act.gov.au
- QLD covid19.qld.gov.au
- NT coronavirus.nt.gov.au
- NSW nsw.gov.au/covid-19
- SA covid-19.sa.gov.au
- Tas coronavirus.tas.gov.au
- Vic dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Continue Good Practices that Reduce the Risk of Transmission
While restrictions in some states ease it is vital we all continue to follow the key principles of excellent hygiene (including hand washing and cough etiquette, social distancing) and use of Personal Protective Equipment where appropriate and required. The Five Good Friends Standard Operating Procedure for ongoing home care services remains in use and has been reinforced through recent communication to all Helpers and Five Good Friends staff.
For an update on restrictions and guidelines for each state please view below:
The Commonwealth Department of Health have also released an information sheet identifying it is okay to have home care located here.
Contactless and Reduced Contact Services
We have continued to communicate with all Helpers reminding them of the important protocols and procedures we have in place to ensure the safe delivery of services. We also have services designed to address specific situations and provide additional support and peace of mind. These include:
- Contactless shopping and delivery.
- Wellbeing Check ins.
- Telehelp - assisted telehealth visits.
To access these services please contact your Care Manager. Details are in the Five Good Friends App or contact our Member Services Team on 1300 787 581 Option 1. Our skilled and caring team will talk to you about your needs. They may also want to discuss other aspects of your Help Plan. There is no need to make changes to your current services unless you would prefer.
COVID-19 Response Survey
Shortly, some of you will receive a survey from us regarding our coronavirus response. We are always seeking ways to be better at what we do each day we come to work, and we are keen to hear from you in relation to how we have supported you during this time. When you receive it please complete the survey if you wish to.
We are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will keep you up to date on changes as they arise. We are remaining vigilant and dedicated to the health and wellbeing of our Members, Helpers, and staff.
Thank you for being a member of Five Good Friends. It is an honour to be proving you help and care.
Yours Sincerely,
William Garton Head of Quality and Programme Development Five Good Friends
