Bayside Public Housing Project

In April-May 2002 a community survey and comprehensive needs analysis of the Bayside Public Housing Estates was conducted by BBCHS in collaboration with Monash University's Community Health Nursing Partnership (CHNP) in Research, Education and Practice Support. Bayside CC was the survey sponsor and provided the funding. Moving Forward: The Communities' Views is the report detailing the survey findings and recommendations. The report is available from BBCHS.

In February 2004 a Public Housing Project Worker was appointed to actively work towards implementing the recommendations detailed in the report Working with a Reference Group of residents, local service providers, Bayside CC and the Office of Housing the project worker has the responsibility of developing programs, advocating for estate residents, facilitating access to health and community services and working with other service providers to engage and empower residents.

A range of activities and programs have been initiated at the Elsternwick Housing Estate, located at the northern end of the City of Bayside in Brighton. These include a walking group, after school homework program for primary school students, a garden beautification project begun during Housing Week in May 2004, monthly BBQs, morning tea and speaker program. Regular trips to Dandenong Market and providing residents with access to a range of recreational opportunities are also occurring.

Community Health Days have been held on the 3 larger housing estates in May and June 2004 and other agencies attended and provided information to residents on each of the days.

Activities and programs for children and young people are proving popular and a trip to the Melbourne Aquarium during the June 2004 school holidays was attended by 14 children and young people. Joining in with other agencies is an important aspect of working with young people and working together with the Bayside Youth Services team is integral to this.

Funding has been received from VicHealth as part of their Communities Together Scheme to have a one day Food and Fun Fair in October at Elsternwick. This is a community building initiative that aims to bring communities together, develop the capabilities and strengths of communities and groups and to build social relationships. The festival will focus on promoting different cultural groups through sharing food and celebrating diversity.

Funding of $8380 has been received from The Jack Brockhoff Foundation to provide a mix of programs, including:

• Men's nutrition and low cost cooking and sharing group
• Social skills/recreation program for younger children
• Brokerage funding for local sporting/other clubs for membership, uniforms and equipment
• Outings for women and pre-school children
• Community BBQs
• Outings for elderly residents.

We are finding a number of beneficial outcomes from having a regular presence on one housing estate. Residents with specific needs or problems now have access to information and support and referrals can occur in a timely way as the need arises. Individual support and advocacy is possible and we hope to be able to assist residents to empower themselves.

For further information contact the Public Housing Project Worker on 9553 6033.