As we near the end of 2021 there is certainly a lot to reflect upon. Just like last year, 2021 was not shy of its challenges, although it did throw us some significant contests.
The increased need to respond to COVID-19 risks seemed to blur the last six months for most of us. I am not sure that anyone across our whole organisation was exempt from the pressure of managing this situation. It seemed to impact every role, from those of you whose work is child and family focused, to those assisting with administration and back of house. Every one of you stood up and faced these challenges with resilience and sensitivity for those we care for at the forefront of your focus. Whilst we are not out of the woods yet, we remain well prepared for future challenges in this area.
I would like to thank the key staff who wore the brunt of COVID-19 response and preparedness and your ability to prioritise the necessary tasks to keep us all safe.
Whilst we have faced unprecedented challenges, we have concurrently thrived in many areas. Recently I wrote my annual report and there was much to celebrate from the last year. Our family-focused work continues, and children have benefited from an approach that prioritises family connections and reunification. Our staff training and development programs continue to mature and lead the industry through our innovative approach to professional education. We have successfully developed new and effective ways to do our work, conduct training and maintain connections with carers, family members and professional supports.
These are just some areas where amazing progress has been made. Alongside our child-focused work we have adopted a focus on systems and processes to streamline our tasks and create efficiencies where possible. This has led to improvements in both productivity and staff morale, and I look forward to seeing where these will lead in 2022.
We are now moving into the busiest part of every year here at Allambi. Our child, participant and family-focused work is always important, but at Christmas it takes on another meaning.
We must ensure that all children, young people, and participants we care for are given the best Christmas we can provide, where they can hold memories and feel connected to those around them. We must step up and create an experience that is better than previous years, that connects with family and friends where possible and ensures everyone in our care feels the spirit of the season. This is my hope every year for Allambi Care. Whilst we may have to do things a little differently again this year, the atmosphere at Christmas doesn’t need to change.
Please move into this Christmas knowing that we once again succeeded in battling the unknown. We kept vulnerable people safe and healthy through a difficult and challenging time. We succeeded to grow and develop despite these roadblocks and have once again come out stronger than before. This is only possible because of our ability to work together and uphold the values that we are proud to promote.
Take care over this festive season and keep your loved ones close.
