MPS staff, Goulburn Meals on Wheels workers and Catholic Care representatives, the new providers of some of the non-core health services, attended.

The services that are being transitioned to Catholic Care in the short term are Meals on Wheels, domestic assistance and personal care.

The changes have been brought about by a Federal Government decision to move funding for non-core services from MPS centres to non-government providers.

Specific reasons for this decision were not available to be discussed at the meeting.

Concerns about this transition were raised by Meals on Wheels volunteers as well as members of the community who receive meals, domestic assistance and/or personal care, who said the service currently provided was excellent. 

Importantly, the change means that meals will no longer be cooked fresh daily, but will be prepared elsewhere in the state and be delivered frozen to Braidwood weekly.

This means that volunteers will either heat up the meals at a central point in town to deliver hot, or meals will be delivered frozen, to be heated in the home.

Despite concerns, the changes are happening, and may have some benefits.

The new service offers an extensive menu that clients can order from, including gourmet options, and the meals available are cheaper. It also allows clients to order more than one meal per day, and gives them flexibility about what they eat and when.

Another advantage is the new program means clients do not have to be at home at noon every day to receive meals. If they choose, they can have the whole week delivered to their home at once, increasing flexibility.

Meals on Wheels staff have also reported there are social benefits, as volunteers may need to enter the home and assist in heating the meal. The social interaction this provides and company while the meal is eaten has resulted in better health and social outcomes.

Ultimately, the change will proceed. The Auxiliary needs to keep talking to Catholic Care to ensure the best outcome for the community.