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BCDS Support Workers and Respite

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Cowes, VIC
BCDS Support Workers and Respite

BCDS Support Workers & Respite provide supports across Gippsland and now Melbournes Casey and Cardinia Shires.
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We have a balance between the care and passion of Independent support workers & the professional accountability and staff screening of an agency

02/10/2025

✨ Meet Hannah! ✨

We’re so excited to introduce Hannah to the BCDS team! 💜

Hannah is currently completing her Bachelor of Health Science (Rehabilitation Counselling) and has a strong background supporting clients with both physical and complex needs, as well as program coordination and skill-building.

Based locally in Cape Woolamai, Hannah brings warmth, knowledge, and a passion for helping people achieve their goals and build independence. 🌱💪

We’re so lucky to have Hannah joining our team, and we know our clients and families will love working with her as much as we do. 🤗

📍 Servicing: Cape Woolamai & surrounding bass coast areas

Please join us in giving Hannah a warm welcome to the BCDS family! 💐

29/09/2025

🏅 Meet Lewis! 🏅
We’re so excited to introduce Lewis to the BCDS team! 🙌

Lewis holds a Certificate III in Disability Support and is currently completing his Cert IV. With extensive experience supporting clients with complex behaviours and medical needs, Lewis brings a calm, steady approach to every shift. 💙

When he’s not working, Lewis loves staying active through soccer, rugby, tennis, and hockey — and he believes the teamwork and discipline he gains through sport help make him a stronger, more resilient support worker. ⚽🏉🎾🏑

📍 Based in Cranbourne West, with a local base in Cowes for Bass Coast supports.

Please join us in giving Lewis a huge BCDS welcome! 👏
Stay tuned — we’ve got another amazing new team member to introduce soon! ✨

15/08/2025

WE’RE HIRING! 📣
Please share & assist us in spreading the word.

We’re looking for 1–3 support workers to join our small but mighty team across the Bass Coast & surrounds. 💪🏼

✅ Flexible hours
✅ Supportive, people-first culture
✅ Shape your own caseload
✅ Weekend shifts available

Must have (or be willing to obtain):
• NDIS Worker Screening Check
• First Aid & CPR
• WWCC
• ABN
• Full insurance
• Certificate III in Disability, Aged Care, Childcare or similar.

If you’re genuinely passionate about person-centred care — we’d love to hear from you!

Get in touch with us today!

📧 jackie@bcdssupports.com
🌐 bcdssupports.com.au/join-our-team

07/08/2025

🧩 Should You Use a Support Worker Agency?

If you’re an NDIS participant (or a family member or carer), choosing how to engage your support workers is a big decision.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of using an agency like BCDS Support Workers and Respite:

✅ Benefits of using a support worker agency:
• Minimal paperwork, minimal stress: We take care of invoices, documentation, and admin — so you can focus on living your life.
• Back-up staff available: If your regular worker is away or unwell, we’ll do our best to find a replacement.
• Screened and trained workers: All staff are thoroughly vetted, reference-checked, and regularly supported by our team.
• NDIS-knowledgeable support: We understand funding categories, goals, and documentation requirements.
• Stronger accountability: If something goes wrong, there’s a full team to help resolve it.
• Peace of mind for families: You’re never left unsupported — even if your needs change.

⚠️ Common misconceptions (and how we clear them up):
• “Agencies cost more than private workers” — not always true!
→ At BCDS Support workers & Respite, we charge below the NDIS price guide, making our services more affordable than many private contractors who often charge the full rate.
• “Agencies are less flexible”
→ We work closely with each participant to find the right support worker match and schedule. You’ll always have a say in how your supports are delivered.

💬 Our approach:
We believe in collaboration, consistency, and client-led care. Whether it’s a weekly outing, complex behaviour support, or help navigating the NDIS maze — we’re here to help you feel supported and empowered.

📞 Want to learn more? Call Jackie on 0478 153 668
📧 Email: jackie@bcdssupports.com.au

11/07/2025

From Pet Rocks to Rock Pools
– Krys’ Fortnight of Adventure & Creativity! 🎨🌊

Over the past fortnight, Krys has had some incredible support sessions filled with creativity, exploration, and confidence-building — and we’ve loved every moment of it!

🖌️ One week, when his usual Art Therapy was cancelled, our amazing support worker Mel invited Krys to her art studio. Instead of sticking to a set plan, Krys led the way — creating his own pet rocks and experimenting with a hot glue gun to build 3D artwork. It was a beautiful, self-directed session that gave Krys the freedom to explore and express himself through art.

🌳 The following week, Krys headed out with Bryan for a full day of outdoor adventure. The two visited the epic climbing tree at Big 4 Inverloch, then went exploring at the caves near Eagles Nest. Krys took on each challenge with growing confidence and a big smile.

We love seeing Krys thrive — whether it’s through creative expression, connecting with nature, or simply trying something new. ✨

👉 What are your young ones loving lately — crafts, climbing, collecting, or creating? Drop your fave activities in the comments! 👇

30/06/2025

🎣 Hooked on a Great Day Out!

Last week, our amazing support worker Ty teamed up with young legend Noah for a fishing adventure at Welshpool Jetty — and what a day it turned out to be!

After a quick stop for bait and snacks, the pair hit the pier and reeled in eight Australian salmon, including Noah’s proud 36cm catch! 🐟

Noah was full of smiles and non-stop chatter — enjoying not just the thrill of the catch, but also the chance to connect with others in the community. With a bit of extra fun on the line, the shift was extended (with dad’s approval) and wrapped up with a well-earned burger and ice cream. 🍔🍦

💬 Ty’s support helped Noah work toward several of his NDIS goals, including:

✔️ Community Access – building confidence in new environments

✔️ Social Participation – engaging positively with others

✔️ Recreation – doing something meaningful and enjoyable

✔️ Communication – expressing himself and interacting with others respectfully

✔️ Capacity Building – managing decisions, purchases, and transitions throughout the day

These kinds of consistent, supported outings are helping Noah develop life skills, confidence, and safe independence — all while doing something he loves.

✨ Keen to get out on the water or reconnect with the great outdoors?

We’d love to hear how we can support you. Reach out to our friendly team:

👉 https://bcdssupports.com.au/contact-us

Here’s to more milestones, meaningful moments, and community connections 💛

27/06/2025

🌟 Support Worker Spotlight 🌟

We have recently welcomed Melissa to the BCDS team!

Melissa is a knowledgeable and values-driven support worker with a strong foundation in mental health and human behaviour. Holding both a Diploma of Counselling and an Associate Degree of Social Science, she brings a depth of understanding that enhances every interaction she has with clients. Her background equips her to navigate complex needs with empathy, insight, and emotional intelligence.

She also brings a diverse and dynamic professional background, having worked across community services, traffic management, and local council maintenance. This broad experience has shaped her adaptable, hands-on approach and strengthened her communication and problem-solving skills — essential qualities in disability support.

Melissa has supported a wide range of NDIS participants, including individuals with autism, anxiety, developmental delays, and non-verbal communication styles. She has experience in using visual prompts, providing personal care, assisting with meal preparation, and supporting capacity-building activities such as community outings and safety awareness.

Calm, consistent, and client-focused, Melissa takes the time to understand each individual’s unique needs and preferences. She’s known for her reliability, clear communication, and genuine commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives.

We’re proud to have Melissa as part of the BCDS team.

https://bcdssupports.com.au/make-a-referral

25/06/2025

🎨 Creative Support in Action!

Our client Annie has been having a wonderful time during her recent arts and crafts sessions with support worker Mel. This week, Annie visited Mel’s art studio, where they explored a range of painting techniques — including finger painting, sponge textures, and brushwork.

Mel holds a Diploma in Arts Therapy and has completed a Master Holistic Counselling Practitioner course. She’s incredibly passionate about the therapeutic benefits of creativity and connection.

She currently offers a range of therapeutic-style art sessions, including:
✨ Sensory art experiences
🖌️ Self-expression through painting and drawing
🧘 Art for relaxation
📖 Creating personalised memory journals

Mel is now accepting new clients who are looking for creative, out-of-the-box, and joy-filled support sessions.

Please note: While Mel is not a registered Art Therapist, her sessions draw on extensive training and experience — and are offered at the affordable rate of a support worker.

🌟 Know someone who would benefit from creative support?
If you’re a family member or support coordinator looking for unique, therapeutic-style activities delivered by a compassionate and qualified worker — Mel may be a great fit.

To learn more or book a trial session, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to chat about how Mel’s sessions can be tailored to meet your participant’s individual goals and interests.

https://bcdssupports.com.au/contact-us

22/06/2025

How cool is this?!!!! https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16qwBRyVZY/?mibextid=wwXIfr

17/06/2025

Loving this explanation of the use of the Sunflower for invisible disabilities 🌻 https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16Sy3ELNvb/?mibextid=wwXIfr

13/06/2025

🐾 Feel Good Friday 🐾

Two legends. One goal. A whole lot of heart.

Back in 2022, Steve set himself a personal mission — to walk his best mate Ernie again, with more independence. He used to take Ernie out up to three times a day, so losing that routine after his stroke was a huge shift.

Today, with Cass supporting behind the scenes, Steve and Ernie hit the pavement together — and absolutely nailed it.

With some teamwork, gentle prompts around pacing and lead control, and planning for those high-distraction areas, Steve walked Ernie with care and confidence.

The pride on his face said it all.
Their most successful walk in a long time — and it’s only the beginning.

Let’s go, Steve & Ernie. You’ve got this. 💪🐾❤️

29/05/2025

To our amazing clients, families, and support coordinators — your feedback means the world to us.

Whether it’s a quick message about your experience with one of our support workers, or a story about how we’ve made a difference in your day-to-day — we’d love to hear it!

Feel free to send us a private message or comment below if you’re happy for us to share your words as a testimonial (with your permission, of course!).

Your voice helps others feel confident reaching out, and helps us continue to grow with care, compassion, and integrity 💬✨

Address

Cowes, VIC
3787

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 6pm
Tuesday	8am - 6pm
Wednesday	8am - 6pm
Thursday	8am - 6pm
Friday	8am - 6pm
Saturday	8am - 6pm
Sunday	8am - 6pm

Website

https://bcdssupports.com.au/

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