There is a growing sense of optimism in Victoria at present with our run of double doughnut days and having conquered the pandemic peak. Now that we have moved to the Last Step in the Victorian Government's Roadmap, we have seen significant changes in restrictions, particularly regarding PPE and rules. As we settle into COVID normal, providers are reviewing the measures and practices put in place to consider which elements will continue.

During December, NDS, in partnership with DHHS is rolling out an extensive program of free, face to face Infection Prevention and Control training to locations across Victoria. This is prompted by findings that previous online training on its own can result in some inconsistent practice across disability services, which leaves our sector at risk in the event of another outbreak. We are using a champions model, whereby a couple of workers per organisation will be trained with an expectation that they will be able to coach and monitor others.  We encourage all providers to consider taking up this offer.

During webinars and forums in recent months, we were able to capture short videos of the great contributions made by NDS members sharing their experiences responding to COVID-19. The presentations include a discussion of clinical waste management in a disability setting, lessons learned from a positive COVID-19 case in a residential setting, another on responding in a day service setting, and reflections on the importance of workforce preparation.

We have also uploaded a recording of our popular Safer and Stronger board webinar on risk.

NDS is continuing to offer opportunities for providers to come together, receive updates and share insights as we all traverse this new environment. Since 1 July, we have seen over 1,100 attendees in total attend our communities of practice and sector meetings.

Events coming up in December:

• 2 December | Community of practice for Health and Safety Representatives
• 4 December | NDS and DHHS Friday webinar on responding to COVID-19
• 7-8 December | CEOs’ Conference for NDS Members
• 10 December | Introduction to Workplace Wellbeing
• 15 December | Communities of practice on In Home Support
• 16 December | Communities of practice on SIL
• 17 December | Communities of practice on Complexity

Many organisations are still moving at pace prior to Christmas and we hope you are all planning to take well-deserved breaks after the demands of 2020.