Hugh Cunningham Gardens welcomes Australian Defence Force support

RSL LifeCare has welcomed the support of Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel at Hugh Cunningham Gardens residential aged care home at Tura Beach.  The 15-person ADF team have been on site for a little over a week, supporting staff at the aged care home carry out clinical and non-clinical duties.

RSL LifeCare’s General Manager of Residential Aged Care, Matthew Filocamo said the ADF’s efforts had been tremendous, particularly at a critical time across the aged care sector.

“The health and safety of residents and staff across all our homes is paramount and we are continuing to do our utmost best to look after everyone,” Mr Filocamo said.

“We’re grateful to the ADF and Government for their support in ensuring that we continue to provide the best care possible to our residents at Hugh Cunningham Gardens, as well as delivering support to the tireless efforts of staff and peace of mind to families connected to the home.”

ADF personnel are assisting in providing clinical care and COVID-19 testing to patients, as well as helping staff with cleaning, meal delivery and social interaction.

“Having the ADF team simply share a conversation and provide assurance to residents is having such a positive impact,” Mr Filocamo added.

The deployment of personnel follows a commitment by the Federal Government to send ADF personnel to residential aged care facilities where there is a need, stabilising and supporting staff shortages and minimising aged care COVID-19 outbreaks.