UWA student Justin Mathews has contributed towards a project that ensures vulnerable groups of people in WA continue to receive support during unexpected crises and emergencies.
Justin, who is studying a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) in Economics and Finance, undertook the project at People Who Care through an internship with UWA’s McCusker Centre for Citizenship.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how important it is for organisations to be prepared to adapt and respond to unforeseen circumstances. For organisations such as People Who Care, who provide in-home aged care and disability services, and services to those starting over following crisis, to over 3,700 clients across the Perth Metropolitan area stretching from Joondalup to Mandurah, this becomes even more vital.
Justin applied to undertake the internship to broaden his university experience, gain professional experience and help the community.
To develop a comprehensive and effective plan, Justin first consulted with People Who Care staff about what should be included in the crises and emergencies plan to ensure their staff of employees and volunteers are able to continue to provide support to vulnerable people across WA.
“My internship opened my eyes to the number of people in our community that are in need of extra assistance in order to live a good life,” said Justin.
He says a highlight of the internship was building connections with People Who Care staff members, who were equally impressed with Justin’s contributions.
“Justin has been a consistent, diligent, skilled and professional contributor to the team in researching and developing People Who Care’s first Business Continuity Policy and Business Continuity Plan,” said People Who Care CEO, Penny Webb.
“People Who Care work with the most vulnerable population groups and being able to refer to a plan that ensures we can provide that continuity of care is critical. This piece of work will serve the organisation and the communities for the years to come,” she said.
Justin plans to continue his volunteer work and recommends the McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship to other students.