Uniting Agewell Welcomes Enhanced Aged Care Training Facility in Devonport

Uniting AgeWell has welcomed yesterday’s announcement that a Labor Government will invest in improved training for aged care workers through the development of an interactive training facility at the TAFE Campus in Devonport, Tasmania. 

“A professionally trained workforce able to meet the health and care needs of an everincreasing ageing population is a critical issue for the community and all aged care providers,” said Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly.

“We are experiencing extensive growth and demand for our specialist residential and home care services in Tasmania, particularly in the North West. Ensuring we have access to well-trained, competent staff is crucial in addressing the needs of seniors in our regional communities.”

Uniting AgeWell is also investing in the local community and senior services. Earlier this year it commenced construction of a $10M redevelopment of its Strathdevon facility in Latrobe, which includes a new 30-bed wing due to open early in 2019 and expansion of its home care and transition care services to support older people to continue living independently at home.

Mr Kinnersly said this growth in services also represents increased employment opportunities.

“It’s encouraging that a local TAFE will be able to provide enhanced opportunities for aged care training and engagement to ensure its graduates have a strong skills base right from the outset.”

Uniting AgeWell is the largest aged care provider in Tasmania. Of its 2,500-strong workforce of nurses, extended care assistants and home care workers, over 700 are located in Tasmania.