An aged care facility and a homecare service that works with older people have been recognised in this year’s CRS Australia NSW/ACT Employer Awards.

Griffith’s Scalabrini Village and Toukley-based Accuro Homecare were recognised in the annual awards which recognise organisations that have demonstrated a commitment to providing training and employment to people with disabilities.

For the past year, Scalabrini Village has employed Stephanie Dickie as a visiting pet therapist with her dog, Harry.

Despite a physical disability and chronic pain, Stephanie does a 300km round trip from her home in Hay every Tuesday to spend time with the residents.

CRS Australia initially put forward Stephanie for another position at Scalabrini Village facility but when it was decided that she wasn’t right for that role, the home decided to create a new position that would incorporate her talents.

“Stephanie is very easy going and friendly,” said Scalabrini Village manager, Lauren Kingsbury.

“She brings a sense of calm to the centre and has fitted in both with the staff and residents. She delivers a different type of nursing that the residents are responding well to.

“Through this arrangement, staff and families have witnessed first-hand the amazing transformation that has taken place in the liveliness of the residents when Tuesday rolls around each week.”

Accuro Homecare was recognised for its role in training three job seekers with a disability.

The organisation provided on-the-job-training for three CRS Australia job seekers.

“The time and effort that you put into mentoring CRS Australia job seekers is worthwhile as the end result is a happy and enthusiastic employee who brings joy to the whole company,” said the company’s manager, Sean Blunt.

“Whether it has been behind the scenes in the office or out in the homes of clients, the job seekers from CRS Australia have endeavoured to give their all, ensuring they too meet the exemplary standards set for the Accuro Homecare employees.”

CRS Australia is part of the Australian Government Department of Human Services and provides vocational rehabilitation and assessment services to people with a disability, injury or health condition.