Age: 76

Location: Cressy*

Referral Source: Local Policeman

A referral came through from a local police officer who was concerned about an elderly (76) man named Harry* living in a “humpy” on a remote farm. The police officer had heard comments from community members that Harry hadn’t been seen collecting his mail from the post office or getting his fuel from the local BP. The police officer was concerned for him as he had no family or any support around him and may have been experiencing isolation and loneliness.

During a "cold call" visit to the farm, two RAW staff (Gabby and Alan) spoke with the property owner who also expressed concerns about Harry and his living conditions. The property owner explained that Harry had once been a jackaroo travelling around finding short term work and never settled down to have a family or buy a house. Since living on the farm, the farmer had only ever seen one friend come and visit the man occasionally but those visits had stopped.

Gabby and Alan visited the humpy and introduced themselves to Harry. It wasn’t long before the they created a rapport with the elderly man, reminiscing on his past jackaroo and travelling life. As they were leaving from their initial engagement, Harry thanked them for their time and asked for them to call in again when they were in the area.

Gabby and Alan continued to stay in touch with him, allowing a space for him to discuss his current challenges around his ill health and consideration of assisted dying. Harry also expressed that his old guard dog was the only thing keeping him here. In order to assist with some of his questions the team conducted a case review and researched options through local services.

Between visits, RAW received notification that Harry had had a fall and been transferred to the LGH. Upon further testing, it was discovered that he had MND and other neurological challenges and was being transferred to a care facility.

The LGH staff mentioned that Harry had requested to see Gabby and Alan, as he felt comfortable discussing his vulnerabilities with them. It was in this moment that they were reminded of what an honour and privilege it is to serve people during their most vulnerable and hardest times.

RAW will continue to work alongside the care facility during Harry’s transition to ensure the elderly man is supporting and connected during this transition period.

*names and locations have been changed for privacy reasons