‘Very encouraging’: Administrators Worrells give update on Encompass Community Services

Voluntary administrators appointed to Encompass Community Services last week have given an update for its hundreds of clients and staff.

Voluntary administrators from Worrells have provided an update to Encompass Community Services' hundreds of clients and staff.

ADMINISTRATORS are hopeful Geelong-based services and jobs at the embattled Encompass organisation can be saved after fruitful talks this week.

Worrells voluntary administrators Scott Andersen and Nathan Deppeler, who have been assessing the financial viability of the organisation and its future, said they were optimistic some Encompass services, which include disability employment and care, could continue.

Encompass was placed into voluntary administration on January 12 and about 30 workers are believed to have since been made redundant.

“Over the last week we have had several very encouraging conversations which we are confident can lead to a continuation of services for Encompass’ clients and continuing employment for a large portion of its workforce,” Mr Deppeler said.

Administrator Nathan Deppeler from Worrells. Picture: Worrells

Administrator Scott Anderson from Worrells. Picture: Worrells

“We hope to be able to reach an outcome as soon as possible which allows for the continuation of as many of the remaining services and sites as possible.

“That does not mean that we have not had to make some hard decisions in recent days and we are very conscious of the effect that this situation is having on both clients and staff.”

Encompass has 299 employees and more than 900 clients.

Staff said on Thursday about 30 people had been shown the door across five Encompass sites including the HomeStart service at Apollo Pl, Whittington, an op shop at Wilsons Rd, Whittington, a Mercer St, Geelong cafe and two supported living homes in Werribee.

Mr Deppeler said the decision to discontinue some of the community services provided by Encompass were made as they were unable to “progress a transitional solution”.

“We have contacted the staff and participants who are affected and we have also recently commenced separate discussions with various parties which may provide an alternative solution to some of these services,” he said.

“We are attempting to keep staff and clients up to date with our investigations, particularly around future client services, continuing employment and outstanding employee entitlements.

“We are also working very closely with the (National Disability Insurance Agency) to ensure the best results possible for the clients.”

Last week, a genU spokeswoman said the organisation would support Encompass.

Worrells will provide a further update when more information is available.

Originally published as ‘Very encouraging’: Administrators Worrells give update on Encompass Community Services