Keeping up with the needs of our aging population

Twenty-five years ago, community care was an emerging industry and had nothing like the mainstream services that we now take for granted.

Paul Hawting and Bromilow carer Helen with client Lucy. Picture: Contributed

BROMILOW Home Support Services opened its doors in 1993 out of a growing need for in-home care and support on the Coast.

Twenty-five years ago, community care was an emerging industry and had nothing like the mainstream services that we now take for granted.

Bromilow CEO Paul Hawting has been with the organisation every step of the way.

"We raised a few eyebrows back in the day as a new kid on the block,” he recalls.

"We didn't come from a nursing or clinical background. However, we came to the industry with one major asset that has continued to serve us very well - a clear client focus.”

From humble beginnings working from a home office in Buderim, Bromilow today employs 100 staff including care workers, registered nurses, cleaners, gardeners, dementia champions and administration staff.

It delivers a broad range of in-home support options for the elderly and younger people with disabilities, assisting them to maintain their independence and remain living in their own homes.

"The most enjoyable aspect of my role is visiting clients in their homes,” Paul said.

"Sitting one-on-one and just talking with them, listening to their stories, hearing about their fascinating lives, playing with their pets and sharing a cuppa.

"One of my most memorable clients was Eric, an elderly bushman who had lived in Tewantin for many years. Eric lived in an old timber home, surrounded by his many beloved cats and a python in the ceiling.

"Interestingly, one of our first clients, grandparents in Buderim, who wanted some support to care for their young grandchildren, contacted us 20 years later needing support for themselves as their health declined.”

With the government-initiated reform agenda, the industry is becoming more market-driven and highly competitive.

Consumers now have more choice than ever and Bromilow can support its clients in new and innovative ways.

A clear client focus and good old-fashioned customer service has enabled it to successfully enter its 25th year as a community care service provider in the Sunshine Coast community.

"It has been a privilege to assist the older and younger disabled population on the Sunshine Coast for the past quarter century,” Paul said.

"Bromilow has enjoyed a wonderful journey but there is still much more to come.”