In order to help alleviate any questions or fears you may have about our supports and services during the Coronavirus Pandemic, we have put together some frequently asked questions for you. The overall message we would like to convey is: please don’t worry. We will keep you updated if anything changes. 

What happens if my regular Support Worker becomes ill? 

All support workers have been instructed not to come to work if they become ill. Currently, all Arafmi staff are healthy and well and are aware of all the protocols around staying well and reducing infection.

Arafmi have got a large pool of staff so we will endeavour to find you alternative support. We may need to change your shift time to provide this but please bear with us if this occurs. We will place priority on clients who are at risk of abuse or neglect. If we need to change your shift, we will communicate directly with you. 

Once your regular support worker has medical clearance to return to work, they can continue to provide you with your required supports. 

What if I become ill? 

If you are experiencing any flu like symptoms, please advise your support worker and notify the Arafmi office staff as soon as practical.  Please also advise us if you need support to seek medical advice from a health professional.  Arafmi will not be able to provide you with direct ‘face to face’ supports until you have medical clearance and are no longer experiencing symptoms associated with your illness. 

Will I still receive supports if I become hospitalised or quarantined? 

Unfortunately, Arafmi will not be able to provide direct supports to you if you’ve been hospitalised or quarantined.  Once you have medical clearance we can re-schedule your supports. 

Will I still be able to access shops & attend appointments?

Arafmi understands that our clients may require assistance to buy their groceries, ensure they have their medication and attend necessary medical appointments.  These support needs will be prioritised according to those with a higher support level for essential services over individuals that have lower level support requirements. 

Can I still attend Short Term Accommodation (STA)?

Yes, all Arafmi programs will continue to operate however if you are unwell you will have to re-schedule your stay until you are feeling better. If you become unwell during your stay it’s necessary for you to advise staff so they can assist you to return home and seek medical advice.  We also ask that you don’t invite other friends or family to visit you while you’re staying at one of our STA programs. 

What happens if my local Arafmi STA Program closes due to COVID-19? 

Arafmi can offer you alternative accommodation at one of our other sites. Our locations include: Toowoomba, Ipswich, Mt Gravatt, Lutwyche and Narangba.  Our Program Facilitators will continue to manage all bookings and answer any of your questions.  We’ll make any necessary arrangements to transfer your accommodation booking to another site if necessary. 

Who do I contact if I need to change my scheduled supports?

You can contact your local Program Facilitator. They will do their best to adjust your supports according to the support staff available. Here’s their contact information: 

Toowoomba 07  4687 7771 E: toowoombasupport@arafmi.com.au 

Ipswich 07 3812 3358 E: jenniferspencewhaley@arafmi.com.au 

Mt Gravatt 07 3411 2777 E: garrymontieth@arafmi.com.au 

Lutwyche 07 3857 0377 E: jadethorburn@arafmi.com.au 

Narangba 07 3877 9760 E: kerrievalpreda@arafmi.com.au 

A Final Note 

Finally, we recognise this is a stressful time for you. If you feel you need extra support over the phone to talk through any worries you have, please don’t hesitate to contact us. It’s important during this time that you continue to stay connected to people. Please don’t isolate yourself emotionally. You are not alone – we are here for you so please pick up the phone and contact us if you need support. You can reach us on 1300 554 660 or 3254 1881.

We don’t want to bombard you with too much information, but it’s important that we put these action plans into place to help relieve your fears. If anything changes, we will let you know. 

24 Hour Helpline

If you have any questions about this article or need someone to talk to, you can call Arafmi any time of the day on 07 3254 1881. It’s comforting to know that when you need to talk – someone who understands will be there – at any hour.