A friendship spanning generations

Young Tim Armstrong thought a workplace learning placement at Edgewater Mercy Hostel in Western Australia would involve doing odd jobs such as making cups of tea. Now he has discovered a deep passion for working with older people — and the residents of Edgewater certainly love Tim.

However, the youngster from Butler, just outside Perth (WA), who was diagnosed with autism two years ago, has made several deep friendships during his weekly visits to the home and has also discovered a love of working with older people.

“Initially Tim was a little nervous about starting his work placement,” says his mum, Les Armstrong. “He was concerned he would find it difficult talking with seniors, but after receiving some communication pointers, he slowly but surely built confidence.”

“Quite quickly, all the residents knew his name, while at the same time, he learned a lot about their lives, from memories of the war years to their life adventures,” says Les, who also has a background in aged care.

Wanneroo College student, Tim Armstrong with Edgewater Mercy Hostel residents Mary Smith and Kenneth Thorpe.

“The nurturing guidance he received from the staff at Edgewater Mercy prompted feelings of acceptance, understanding and safety. This has helped Tim build many friendships, as well as ensuring that his work placement was both a positive and happy experience,” said Les.

“Mercy Health and his school, Wanneroo Secondary College, have both been amazing,” Les says. “The experience he’s gained has really helped develop his confidence. Tim enjoyed his work experience so much that he has requested to go back and visit the residents after his placement has ended.”

Edgewater Mercy Hostel Service Manager Alison Devonport, says Mercy Health is committed to providing care for people at every stage of life. The organisation recognises that people living with a disability, including young people, can bring immense value to many different capacities within aged care homes. “We also understand that we need to ensure the settings in which we provide care and employment are accessible to people with a disability,” Alison says.

“We were delighted to welcome Tim to Edgewater Mercy. He has proven to be a real hit with residents and has fitted in incredibly well, helping out with gardening, craft activities and outings.

“We are incredibly pleased to have a strong relationship with Wanneroo Secondary College and we hope to continue to receive students on placement into the future. Our residents certainly enjoy spending time with the younger generation.”

The experience Tim has gained has really helped develop his confidence.

Mercy Health’s Accessibility Action Plan 2019-2022 helps advance equality for people with disability by supporting employment opportunities, providing accessible physical environments and enhancing the care we provide. If you would like more information about the plan, please contact Mercy Health Organisational Development and Diversity Manager on 03 8416 7777.

Last reviewed April 24, 2020.

Keeping babies safe

The Safer Baby Collaborative is a program that has been developed to educate families-to-be about the simple steps they can take to reduce the likelihood of stillbirth.

Keeping babies safe

Day respite provides a break for all

Mercy Health's Day Respite Program not only provides respite for clients, it also allows some much-needed rest and free time for carers.

Day respite provides a break for all

NICU Cheer: It’s special and expanding

Maddie Francis founded NICU Cheer, an organisation which collects donated gifts from corporate Australia to share among families whose babies are in NICU at Christmas time. The initiative has become so popular, she has decided to expand it to include Mother’s Day and Father's Day as well.

NICU Cheer: It’s special and expanding