UnitingCare and Uniting Church Building Strong Communities

Transcription

1 UnitingCare and Uniting Church Building Strong Communities Guiding Principles and Protocols NSW.ACT

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3 About UnitingCare NSW.ACT UnitingCare NSW.ACT is the Board of the NSW and ACT Synod of the Uniting Church responsible for the work of community services, chaplaincy and social justice advocacy. All our work is inspired and guided by the principles of justice and compassion. This document has been prepared to guide UnitingCare NSW.ACT and Uniting Church Presbyteries and Congregations when working together.

4 Key Messages In working with Presbyteries and Congregations, UnitingCare NSW.ACT aims to: Build a mutual understanding across the Church about UnitingCare based on a shared mission. Form sustainable relationships between UnitingCare, Presbyteries and Congregations based on mutual respect and trust in each other. Acknowledge the rich heritage and legacy of the Church s foundational work in welfare and community services and establish confidence across the Church in the sound and appropriate governance in UnitingCare. Strengthen bonds between UnitingCare, Presbyteries and Congregations so there is a shared sense of pride in what we do together.

5 Guiding Principles Principle 1: Consultation UnitingCare NSW.ACT will respectfully consult with Presbyteries and Congregations when new services are planned or requests for services from Congregations are received. Principle 2: Safety and Well-being The welfare and interests of the children, young people, families, individuals and older people we serve are paramount. We will take this into account at all times when determining partnerships and initiatives. Principle 3: Respect for All UnitingCare NSW.ACT will work to understand everyone s perspectives so all Presbytery and Congregation members are treated with respect and past and present contributions are honoured and acknowledged. Principle 4: Positive Outcomes in our Service Delivery UnitingCare NSW.ACT will undertake the most effective intervention required to achieve the greatest benefit. The choice of intervention used will be the least intrusive possible, will do no harm and will achieve positive outcomes for those we serve. Principle 5: Services based on Evidence UnitingCare NSW.ACT will use evidence- informed ways of working with and responding to Presbyteries and Congregations with the focus on achieving positive outcomes for the children, young people, families, individuals and older people we serve. Principle 6: Ethical Practice UnitingCare NSW.ACT will work professionally in relationships with Presbyteries and Congregations, maintaining clear boundaries and respecting privacy and rights. We will adhere to our shared values of courage, integrity, social justice, care and responsiveness. Principle 7: Sustainability UnitingCare NSW.ACT will always consider the sustainability of any endeavours. We will determine whether we and/or Congregations have the capacity, fit, expertise and financial viability to undertake or continue ventures. Principle 8: Collaboration UnitingCare NSW.ACT will work in partnership with Presbyteries and Congregations, utilising the strengths of all parties to achieve an agreed common goal, which will benefit the people we serve. Principle 9: Accountability UnitingCare NSW.ACT will engage in reflective practice and seek regular feedback. We will meet government accountability requirements. Principle 10: Social Justice We will work together to achieve social justice and provide services that are accessible, inclusive and culturally competent.

6 Processes UnitingCare recognises different processes apply to different scenarios: 1. Where UnitingCare is already providing services in a particular location A communication plan will be developed to keep the relevant Congregations informed about the work that is being undertaken. For example, quarterly written reports could be made to the Congregation/s; speakers could be available for addressing the congregation; discussion about ways in which the Congregation/s could assist in the work, for example any opportunities for volunteering, use of church buildings, providing pastoral care, etc. 2. Where UnitingCare is planning or contemplating establishing a service in a specific location Procedures will be implemented for informing and consulting with the Congregation/s of the new work proposed and explanation given of what was intended. There would be discussions around volunteering, the use of buildings and other resources and pastoral care. Feedback from the Congregations will be invited and heard. 3. Where it is intended to form a partnership with a Congregation to carry out a service in this area This involves more than the use of Congregation property and it is envisaged members would be actively involved in the delivery of the program. Examples include the establishment of Men s Sheds or a partnership for an advocacy program [eg. elder abuse or child protection]. In this scenario, there would be a Memorandum of Understanding agreed between the Congregation and UnitingCare. 4. Where a Congregation is planning to establish a service under its own auspice UnitingCare will provide information and advice. UnitingCare [under the Synod by-laws] is required to approve any new community services venture proposed to be established by a congregation. UnitingCare would make an assessment of the long term viability of the proposed service and would assist the Congregation in making an informed decision. If the service is approved it would be conducted under the brand of UnitingCare, albeit separately managed from UnitingCare NSW.ACT. 5. Where a Congregation/parish mission is already operating a service under its own auspice UnitingCare is responsible to assist where necessary to ensure that the Congregation is able to offer the best service to clients. Examples of this type of service are UnitingCare Campbelltown, UnitingCare Lithgow, Lifeline Centres, etc. The Community Services Consultant, UnitingCare NSW. ACT is responsible for maintaining appropriate contact with services in this category. 6. Where a Congregation/s wants to know more about UnitingCare in order to participate as a key supporter The Congregation will be assisted to understand their own participation opportunities in UnitingCare as a part of the Synod of NSW and ACT. Information, speakers, and opportunities for volunteering will be offered.

7 Resources The following are available to congregations from UnitingCare NSW.ACT: UnitingCare Ageing Development Funds can be accessed by congregations through their UnitingCare Ageing region. The 2% for Development Fund may provide small seed grants for projects centred on human rights and human development. Staff of UnitingCare NSW.ACT can assist congregations in determining the way ahead. This can be channelled through the Community Services Consultant or other persons, eg. Rev. Garry Derkenne, Chaplain in Children, Young People and Families Service Group. UnitingCare Ageing Bequest funds may be available in some circumstances for congregations to undertake special projects in ageing. Members of congregations can access the UnitingCare NSW.ACT website or the Without Fear of Favour website and can request to be placed on mailing and lists to obtain regular information. Speakers from UnitingCare can be provided on various topics to congregations. For example, a sermon on Sunday, an address to people about accessing aged care, an information session on mental health chaplaincy. UnitingCare NSW.ACT Level 4, 222 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02)

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