We believe caring for the whole person, and understanding their unique story and individual life experience helps improve quality of life.
Our pastoral care is a free service supporting the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of residents, their families, and friends.
Joanne, a valued member of the pastoral care team at HammondCare Caulfield, was a joint winner of the 2023 annual Bob Hammond Award. The award recognises an individual’s dedication and commitment to our Mission in Action.
To acknowledge Pastoral Care Week in late October, we asked Joanne a few questions about her role.
What led you to working for HammondCare?
I had previous experience working in aged care, as an associate pastor in my local church. When a colleague told me about HammondCare’s Mission, it really resonated with my heart. I love people and serving others through pastoral care support. I knew that HammondCare was in my ‘sweet spot.’
How long have you been with the organisation?
I’ve been with HammondCare Caulfield for over eight years, since just after its opening.. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the new village come to life and become home to so many beautiful residents.
How would you describe your role?
My role is to visit, befriend and support residents, families, and team members. I really enjoy being innovative in my role: to creatively offer ways to meet the individual’s spiritual and emotional needs, in ways that are meaningful for them.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
I feel honoured to get to know residents and their loved ones. I have heard incredible stories, sat with people when they were feeling lonely, provided friendship and companionship. I’ve also held hands of residents when they were dying, being there for them in their time of need.
And I’ve been privileged to see families reconciled and helped to rekindle the small joys in life - like laughter and dancing.
How did you feel about winning the Bob Hammond award?
Receiving the Bob Hammond award is truly an honour. To be awarded and recognised for the work I absolutely love and feel called to, has been both humbling and an accomplishment I am proud of. I am so thankful to all the people I work with, who mentor, train, champion and encourage me in my role.
What has been a standout moment for you?
The difference we can make to those we serve has provided ongoing standout moments - I have literally thousands of stories I could share.
The story that has impacted me the most took place when I first began working at Caulfield, and a new resident arrived with her daughter.
The daughter just left the resident there, without any commitment to visit, or an opportunity for us to chat about how we could partner in the loving care of her mother. That event impacted me so much. I decided that day, that HammondCare was where I was meant to be, to offer care, friendship and family support to those in need.
To find out more about our pastoral care service for you or your loved ones, we encourage and welcome you to chat with a member of our team, or your residential manager.