As of 18 November 2020
Sydney MCS is continuously monitoring the changing COVID-19 situation. The needs of our clients are at the heart of how we operate, therefore our priority is always to ensure safety and continuity of service. Please note our office will be closed from 24 December 2020 to 4 January 2021.
Settlement Services
- We are delivering our services to the community, including our Settlement clients via phone, email and in person with screening questions.
- Booking an appointment is highly recommended.
- We have a range of events and classes running until the end of the year, with social distancing in mind.
- Information sessions and workshops in English and other languages have resumed.
Aged Care, Disability and CVS (Community Visitors Scheme)
- Home Care – Care workers are continuing to practice strict measures such as infection control, PPE and screening processes, and client visits at home or in our office are by appointment only. We are happy to assist you in getting your Home Care Package, explaining the process or changing packages. Our case workers are available to visit you personally and guide you through the process and begin your services with Sydney MCS. Registered Nurse (RN) services are available to other service providers, clients and private requests.
- Social Support Groups – group numbers remain limited to seven clients and three staff members (10 total), in order to safely practice social distancing. The Covid-19 Emergency Support Program is operating in five languages (Polish, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin and Cantonese) with client visits in addition to phone calls to provide further support when groups are not possible. The groups will take break for the end of the year from 23 December 2020 and recommence on 25 January 2021.
- Community Visitors Scheme – We have increased visits (to clients) to cater for COVID-19 requirements, as some Aged Care facilities have started to ease their visitor restrictions. Virtual visits are also being offered in lieu of restrictions. We are coordinating meet ups with volunteers physically and virtually to discuss experiences and best practice.
- NDIS – Support coordination and case management are continuing strong with regular check-ins with clients in person and via phone and email. Care workers are practicing strict measures in their interactions and visits. Support to our participants continues with safety measures in place. Our newest service, Psychosocial Recovery Coaching support clients’ emotional wellbeing and as mentor to help achieve their goals, new skills and empower independence. We currently have capacity for new clients.
- Our Facebook and Website are updated regularly with live information sessions, language materials, free resources, and service updates to help support you during these changing times. We hope you and your loved ones continue to stay well!
Covid-19 Resources in English and other languages
- NSW Health COVID-19 Resources (fact sheets, posters in multiple languages and Aboriginal community resources)
- Department of Health Translated resources
- Victoria State Government Translated resources (extensive languages)
- SBS Radio in various languages covering COVID-19 topics (63 languages)
- Coronavirus Explained in Your Language (videos in 32 languages)
- JNC Coronavirus Support – Community Support from The Junction Neighbourhood Centre
- Access Easy English Resources – Simple English with graphics explaining the Coronavirus and changing rules
- NDIS Coronavirus Fact sheets in Accessible Easy Read English and four other languages
Legal and Financial Information Resources
- Legal Aid NSW – Free Legal help during COVID-19
- NSW Residential Tenancy – Residential renting during COVID-19
- JobKeeper Payment Jobkeeper Payment information during COVID-19
- JobSeeker Payment Jobseeker Payment information during COVID-19
The newly arrived residents waiting period for JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Austudy, Parenting Payment Single and Partnered, Farm Household Allowance and Special Benefit is waived from 25 March 2020. This is due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Mental Health and Domestic Violence Resources
- Family Continuity Plan Relationships Australia NSW
- Looking after your Mental Health during Coronavirus Beyond Blue
- Helping Young People cope with stress related to Covid-19 headspace
- Wellbeing tips, strategies and support Lifeline
- Dedicated webpage and phone counselling Kids Helpline
- Multilingual information about mental health Embrace Mental Health
If you or someone you know is impacted by family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Women from migrant and refugee backgrounds who are experiencing family or domestic violence can contact inTouch, the Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence on 1800 755 988 or visit intouch.org.au.Learning Resources
- Free English Learning Resources for Adults
- Free Primary School aged Courses, Activities, Games (Scholastic Australia)
- International Children’s Digital Library
- Free printable worksheets for children’s learning
- NSW Government Department of Education Resources – learning from home resources