b'Keeping consumers at the heart of what we do Since changing the admission model, we havent had one consumer leave treatment early, which is unheard of in our services.AdrianThe COVID-19 restrictions have seen our Alcoholstarted and finished treatment at the same time. and Other Drug (AOD) residential service teamsThe change allowed for more rigorous cleaning quickly adapt and find new ways to providemeasures to be carried out before admitting a new treatment and support to consumers. group; but also resulted in an unexpected positive. While many services have moved online, this wasWe have found that through block admissions, not an option for our adult and youth withdrawalour consumers come in together and get to know units.each other early on, reports Adrian. It allowed It was a balancing act, because we wanted tothe group to bond with each other, support each continue providing these essential face-to-faceother and most importantly, encourage each other services. But due to strict hygiene and distancingto stay in treatment.restrictions, we needed to ensure they were stillSince the admission model changed, not one delivered in a safe and respectful way, says Seniorconsumer left treatment early, something Manager of Clinical Residential Services, Adrianunheard of in our services, says Adrian. The Webber.team is now exploring the idea of continuing Our people did a fantastic job adapting to the newwith the new admission model beyond the circumstances they found themselves in. The teamCOVID-19 restrictions.changed the admission process from 3 days perUniting AOD staff (left to right) Nico, Jason, Olivia, Nellie and Anna.week to 1 day per week, to ensure all consumers 44 Uniting Vic.Tas Annual Report 2019-2020'