Vulnerable Communities

Empowering lives through dignity, housing and support

Supporting Vulnerable Communities

At Catholic Healthcare, we are committed to supporting individuals facing complex challenges so they can maintain their independence, safety and dignity. Through tailored programs and compassionate support, we collaborate with clients and other services to achieve meaningful outcomes across housing, aged care, and community inclusion.

Hoarding and Squalor Assistance

Our Hoarding and Squalor Assistance supports frail or prematurely aged people (50 years and over, or 45 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) who are:

Frail or prematurely aged people who meet the following criteria:

On a low income
Living with hoarding behaviour and/or in a squalid living environment
At risk of homelessness or unable to receive the aged care services they need
Have experienced active military service, homelessness or substance abuse.

Scope of services

Our Hoarding and Squalor Assistance team works closely with individuals to create personalised support plans. Assessments are done using:

Environmental Cleanliness and Clutter Scale

Clutter image rating scale

Wheel of Life - A tool for capturing client satisfaction and informing their goals.

Services may include:

Our Hoarding and Squalor Assistance services may include:

Consent-based removal of items

Brokerage support for service delivery

Referrals to relevant external services

The Hoarding and Squalor model for older Australians is built around a trusting and respectful relationship with the person. It recognises that meaningful change occurs when support is aligned with the person’s goals, preferences and readiness. Our dedicated team works alongside the person at their own pace, promoting choice, autonomy, dignity and respect while fostering a safe and collaborative environment.

Transitional accommodation and Bridge Housing partnership

Catholic Healthcare provides transitional accommodation for older people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This includes:

Transitional housing for men delivered in partnership with Bridge Housing

Together, this service can offer up to 18 months of short-term accommodation with wraparound support. Clients receive coordinated care planning and help to transition into longer-term housing, while also building confidence and community engagement.

Eligibility includes:

Being eligible for priority social housing
Experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness

Support is also available for co-habiting dependants, as Catholic Healthcare recognises the important role a stable household can play in achieving positive outcomes.

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Programs and partnerships making a difference

Catholic Healthcare collaborates with housing providers, local councils, and health organisations to reduce housing insecurity and improve wellbeing.

Care finders

Our Care Finders team provides assertive outreach and one-to-one guidance to help older people navigate aged care services, complete assessments, and connect with community supports to reduce isolation.

Understand and navigate aged care services
Complete applications and assessments
Stay connected with community supports

Buried in Treasure (BIT)

Buried in Treasures is a structured 15-week group program offering practical strategies, peer support and professional guidance to help people address hoarding behaviours and improve their living environment.

Housing relocation

We support older people in moving from unsafe or unsuitable homes into secure, accessible accommodation, coordinating with property managers, transport services and local councils to ensure a smooth transition.

Community Corner

An integrated community that supports individuals who are socially isolated and financially disadvantaged. By fostering social connections, mutual support and a sense of community, we strive to improve the quality of life, health and wellbeing of clients.

Through various programs and initiatives, we provide advocacy, skill-sharing opportunities, social connection and practical support.

Support for tenancy rights

In partnership with DCJ, we deliver resources and advice on tenancy rights, offer fact sheets on safety and maintenance, and guide clients in engaging effectively with housing providers.

Fact sheets on mould, animals, cleanliness and safety
Guidance on engaging with housing providers
Support to maintain tenancy and safe living conditions

Specialised Support Services

Under this program, we provide advisory and support services for clients and their families who can proactively access aged care services without requiring intensive one-to-one support.

Services may include continence advisory services, dementia advisory services, vision advisory services, hearing advisory services, client advocacy and other clinical advisory support.