Following our story on Opal Aged Care here last week, we received an email from Jill McConnell at the Seniors Rights Service in Sydney.
She reminded us that before approaching the Aged Care Complaints Commissioner (ACCC), people can talk to an advocate at one of the Federal government-funded OPAN Advocacy organisations in their state.
The National Aged Care Advocacy Program (NACAP), these organisations provide independent support and information to residents and their families and carers.
“Aged care advocates assist people to either self-advocate or with permission we can advocate with the aged care provider on their behalf,” Jill says.
Often with this information and guidance, you can resolve the issue so you don’t need to approach the ACCC to make a formal complaint.
It’s good advice.
You can call the National Aged Care Advocacy line on 1800 700 600 (free call) or visit the OPAN website for more contact details here.
