Aged care services are a vital part of supporting older Australians in their day-to-day lives. The Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) is a government initiative that helps these individuals live independently in their homes and communities. It’s important for NDIS service providers to understand the CHSP to enable them to deliver effective care and assistance. Here, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the CHSP and outline how NDIS businesses can navigate the programme.
What is a Commonwealth Home Support Package?
The Commonwealth Home Support Programme is an Australian government initiative designed to provide low-level support to older Australians who require a small amount of assistance in their daily living, such as a single weekly service. The programme aims to help these individuals maintain their independence and quality of life.
The Home Care Package (HCP) funding scheme provides a series of services that assist individuals with more complex needs, meaning it is suitable for those requiring a greater degree of care. Individuals who need an HCP may need to wait for several months for funds to be made available after their package has been approved, and during this time, they can access interim care under the CHSP. The HCP is offered at a range of levels, and an assessor determines the appropriate level for each individual.
Is CHSP income tested?
One of the CHSP’s fundamental principles is its commitment to accessibility. Unlike certain aged care services, the CHSP is available to all Australians over the age of 65 and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples over the age of 50.
Younger Australians between 45 and 65 with a disability, dementia or other care needs that aren’t met through other specialist services, or those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, may also be eligible for assistance under the CHSP.
After completing the My Aged Care eligibility quiz online, applicants can book an aged care assessment and discuss their specific needs with an assessor.
What is the difference between My Aged Care and CHSP?
My Aged Care serves as the primary gateway for accessing government-funded aged care services. It’s the Australian government’s centralised platform for individuals seeking information and support about aged care options.
The CHSP operates within the overarching My Aged Care framework and delivers entry-level support services to older Australians who require assistance with one or two aspects of their daily living. While My Aged Care facilitates initial assessments and referrals, the CHSP provides practical assistance and support services tailored to individual needs.
What are the different types of CHSP services?
CHSP aged care services include a range of support options aimed at addressing the specific needs of Australians over a certain age. Although the CHSP encompasses a variety of services, those who take part in the programme typically only require one or two services to help them stay independent. Individuals who require a higher level of support can apply for additional assistance under the HCP programme.
Some of the services offered by Commonwealth Home Support Programme providers include:
Domestic assistance
Domestic assistance under the CHSP encompasses household tasks aimed at maintaining a clean, safe and comfortable living environment for older individuals. These may include vacuuming, dusting, cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, doing laundry, gardening and generally tidying the home. They may also include assistance with meal preparation, grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning up. These services are designed to alleviate the physical and cognitive strain associated with maintaining the household.
Personal care
Personal care services under the CHSP address the fundamental activities involved in daily living that older individuals may require help with due to physical limitations, illness or disability. These may include support with bathing, showering, using the restroom, grooming, getting dressed and oral hygiene. Personal care services may also extend to assistance with mobility and the use of aids such as canes or walkers. These services enable older Australians to maintain their sense of autonomy and self-esteem.
Transportation
Transportation services offered through the CHSP provide older Australians with assistance in accessing essential services, medical appointments, social engagements and community activities, as well as shopping for groceries. Whether through volunteer drivers, community transport services or coordinated arrangements, transportation services aim to overcome mobility barriers and enhance social inclusion for older individuals. By facilitating access to vital resources and social interactions, transportation services contribute to the overall health, independence and quality of life of older Australians.
Social support
Social support services within the CHSP focus on promoting social engagement, companionship and community participation among older individuals. These services include a variety of activities designed to combat social isolation, loneliness and depression and may include group outings to parks, museums or cultural events, participation in hobby or interest-based groups, social gatherings and community events. They may also involve home visits, telephone check-ins or facilitated peer support groups. By fostering meaningful connections and opportunities for interaction, social support services contribute to the mental, emotional and social well-being of older Australians.
Allied health services
Allied health services provided through the CHSP offer access to a wide range of allied health professionals who specialise in addressing the specific health needs of older individuals. These professionals may include physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, speech therapists and dietitians. Their focus is typically on interventions aimed at enhancing mobility, restoring physical function, managing chronic conditions, preventing falls, addressing communication disorders and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours. Through personalised assessments, therapy sessions, education and support, allied health services empower older Australians to optimise their health.
Navigating the CHSP as a service provider
Service providers play a crucial role in delivering CHSP services effectively. By familiarising themselves with the CHSP guidelines and requirements, as well as the differences between the CHSP and the HCP programme, NDIS businesses can ensure that they are able to meet their clients’ needs. The Australian government has published the CHSP manual, which provides a comprehensive overview of everything service providers need to know regarding the programme.
Grants and funding for the CHSP
In order to provide CHSP services, service providers must apply for a grant through the government’s grants hub, GrantConnect. The CHSP operates as a partially government-subsidised initiative, which means that those receiving CHSP services make a contribution towards the cost involved. These contributions vary depending on the complexity of the service. Service providers can set the client contribution amount based on the National Guide to the CHSP Client Contribution Framework. Client contributions must be reported through the Data Exchange.
In partnership with the Australian government, community organisations and allied health professionals – and with the support of software solutions like MYP – CHSP providers play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued success and sustainability of the programme.
