Community Support Worker Joyleen Rigney has been working at Aboriginal Community Services for six months, and in her time here she has learnt from Elders, and found immense fulfillment in her role, playing a vital part in their lives. Joyleen has kindly shared some insight into her experience as a Community Support Worker for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Empowering our Elders to thrive in their own homes by making intentional, supportive changes.
What’s something people wouldn’t expect about your job?
The work required in our Elders’ homes is not limited to transporting them to appointments and shopping. It involves creating a comfortable, inviting environment and addressing maintenance tasks, leading to a significant improvement in their emotional well-being and actions.
Is there anything you have learnt about yourself since becoming a CSW?
In my role as a Community Support Worker, I’ve witnessed first-hand the immense value of our Elders’ wisdom & experiences, which has the power to profoundly enhance our lives & broaden our perspectives. Building on my previous recognition of the importance of learning from our Elders
What do you wish more people knew about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aged Care?
Acquiring a deeper understanding of our people requires the truth. To provide quality care, they must conduct thorough research beforehand & recognise that a certificate is not a substitute for experience.
What’s been your proudest moment as a CSW?
As a Community Support Worker my most fulfilling experience is seeing individual Elders break free from their struggles and discover a renewed sense of purpose.
Thank you Joyleen for being a part of our team and sharing your thoughts! find out more about our home care services here.
