Chela is a Case Manager - Home Support Partner in our Ageing team. She supports the individual needs of Older Australians on a day-to-day basis. We sat down with Chela to learn more about her.

How long have you been working at The Benevolent Society? 

I’ve worked with the Benevolent Society for eight years and I’ve always felt very supported within the organisation. When I first started, I was a stay-at-home mum. I was given the opportunity to work within school hours when my children went to school. Even later I’ve always been able to balance my family life around my work life.  After starting as a care worker. The Benevolent Society encouraged me to further my studies and I progressed into a case manager position. 

What do you do in your role?

I help people access their care needs through Home Care Packages. And I also help people find affordable, safe housing through the Assistance with Care and Housing program. 

At The Benevolent Society, it’s not a case of one size fits all. It’s looking at our clients in their individual settings. It’s a lot of multi-tasking. Sometimes I’ll have 20 completely unrelated requests to do with services, meals and medication problems. Sometimes I even organise doctor’s appointments. Could be anything. It’s a very varied day. 

Also, a lot of my time is spent on the phone with someone. Not necessarily about their homecare package or their housing needs, sometimes it’s just about what their daughter’s doing and worries they have about other things. 

You need to be able to listen to your clients and be there for them when they need it. And be able to act on their needs.

“I love seeing people living their best lives.”

What do you like the most about your role? 

What I love most about being a case manager is the client interactions and supporting them. I do feel I make a difference with my clients.  They always like having someone to talk to and someone who cares. I find my work rewarding and clients always seem to appreciate my efforts. 

I love the reaction. I love the smiles. I love the thanks that they give. I love seeing people living their best lives. I also enjoy telling people what I do. People are always really fascinated and they think it’s such a great thing to do. 

Find out more about the Ageing services we offer here or call us on 1800 236 762