CHSP at Clota Cottage FAQ

CHSP Social Support Group Program Objective: To provide opportunities for adults 65+ years to participate in community life and feel socially included through structured, group-based activities that develop, maintain or support independent living and social interaction whilst facilitating your wellness goals.

Service Type: Social Support Group provides opportunities for you to join activities conducted away from your home, in a community setting. These structured activities are provided in a group-based environment and designed to develop, maintain and support social interaction, independent living and maintain health and wellbeing.

Schedule - English: Currently most of our Social Support Group activities take place on Thursdays, and occasional Wednesdays. Of course participants may attend any other suitable activity offered by Clota Cottage, such as classes, garden group, community lunches, etc.

Schedule - Chinese: Chinese speaking activities are on Fridays. Currently the Social Computer Group requires term enrolment, however newcomers may ‘come and try’ a session. At times we offer other activities including social activities and Chinese community lunches - contact us for more information or to volunteer to assist.

Who Can Participate: Activities are suited to participants registered with My Aged Care to attend Social Group activities at Clota Cottage. Most of our older adults activities are open to anyone, regardless of age or registration in the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). People from all cultural backgrounds may participate in our CHSP activities. Priority is given to participants currently registered with My Aged Care to attend SSG activities at Clota Cottage. More information about CHSP eligibility is outlined below, or come along to one of our Drop In Sessions.

CHSP and My Aged Care: Those registered with My Aged Care to attend CHSP Social Support Group activities at Clota Cottage receive priority to attend when numbers exceed capacity and are also eligible for subsidised rates for most activities.

How Do I Participate: Newcomers are always welcome. We strongly recommend that you contact Kate, our Social Support Group Facilitator, and organise to attend a Drop In morning tea to have a chat and a cuppa.

Activity Costs: Fees are applied in line with the CHSP Fees Policy and Guidelines. There is no formal means testing for CHSP participant contributions. We aim to keep fees as low as possible, and charge no more than the cost of providing the activity. Costs vary depending on the activity. Participants experiencing hardship may request a fee reduction or waiver and should speak with our Manager for more information.

Waitlist: Some of our most popular activities will have a waitlist so we encourage early enrolment to avoid disappointment. Activities may be cancelled if there is insufficient enrolment.

Feedback: We encourage all participants to provide feedback and input into program activities.