Getting approved for the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) is an important step in securing the support you need to live independently. However, for many, the reality is that services can often be hard to access, particularly highly sought after services such as house cleaning, lawn mowing and home maintenance and repairs. Limited funding, high demand, and staff shortages can lead to significant gaps in availability. So, what do you do when you’re told there’s “nothing available” or “nothing that can be done”?
Let’s break it down and look at some practical advice to help you navigate this challenging situation.
1. Understand the Process
Once you’re approved for CHSP services through My Aged Care, the next step is to contact local service providers to arrange the support you need, such as cleaning, transport, or meal delivery.
But here’s the catch: approval doesn’t guarantee immediate access to services. Providers often have waiting lists or may be at capacity, leaving you in limbo. You may be asked to check back later—sometimes repeatedly—adding to the frustration.
While this process can be disheartening, understanding how it works and what to expect can help you mentally prepare for these roadblocks.
2. What Happens When Services Aren’t Available?
If the providers you contact can’t take you on due to high demand, the bottom line is:
- You’ll Need to Wait: If a provider can’t assist you, you’ll likely be told to check back later. It’s worth asking whether you can join a waitlist, but be aware that some providers may have closed their waitlists entirely due to overwhelming demand. This means you may just need to keep calling periodically to check for service openings. It’s a frustrating process, and understandably, it can feel discouraging. But knowing that this is common is important to set realistic expectations.
3. Explore Alternative Options
While waiting for CHSP services, consider these alternatives to get the support you need:
- Community Resources:
Look for local organizations or councils that may provide similar services. Examples include:- Community meal programs or food banks
- Home Assist Secure (a subsidized home maintenance program for pension cardholders)
- Local handymen or gardening services
- Private Services:
If it’s within your budget, private providers may be able to assist you more quickly. Many offer one-off or pay-as-you-go options for services like cleaning, personal care, or transport. - Family and Friends:
Don’t hesitate to ask family and friends for help. Even small tasks—like picking up groceries or doing light maintenance around the house—can reduce the pressure and ease the load.
4. Advocate for Change
If you’re regularly unable to access CHSP services, it’s important to speak up:
- Contact My Aged Care: Inform them of the lack of service availability so they can log the issue and keep track of the demand.
- Reach Out to an Aged Care Advocate: Organizations such as the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) can help raise concerns, guide you through your options, and advocate on your behalf.
- Engage Your Local MP: Contacting your Member of Parliament to highlight systemic issues is another way to push for changes. By sharing your experiences, you can help raise awareness and advocate for more funding and better services.
5. What to Do If You Feel You Need More Support
While CHSP services may not be available in your area, this does not automatically qualify you for a Home Care Package (HCP). HCPs are typically allocated to people with high or complex care needs. Unless you meet these criteria, such as requiring regular assistance from multiple services to stay safely at home, you may not be eligible for an HCP.
However, if you believe your needs have outgrown the support provided by CHSP, you can request a review of your care plan. To do this, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. An assessor will reach out to discuss whether you might be eligible for a higher-level care package.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the CHSP system can often feel overwhelming, especially when services are unavailable, and waiting becomes the norm. While the system’s limitations can be frustrating, being proactive, exploring alternative options, and advocating for yourself can make a difference.
Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. There are resources and organizations that can offer support, guidance, and advocacy to help you access the care you need.
Links to Resources
National Seniors Australia: https://nationalseniors.com.au
Seniors Enquiry Line: Seniors Enquiry Line: linking seniors with community information
My Aged Care: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au
Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN): https://opan.org.au
Council on the Ageing (COTA): https://www.cota.org.au