Shaping Outcomes seeks new facility after loss of base at Tweed Hospital
- Written by Col Usher
For over four decades, Shaping Outcomes has stood as a pillar in the Tweed and Northern Rivers community, offering critical early childhood intervention services to children with developmental delays or disabilities. Founded on a parent-led, community-driven model, this Not-for-Profit organization now faces an unprecedented challenge. The NSW government has abruptly terminated Shaping Outcomes' tenure at their site on the original Tweed Hospital grounds—a site built and maintained through the hard work and financial generosity of local families, businesses, and philanthropic organizations—without proposing an alternative location or financial compensation.
Shaping Outcomes' CEO, Col Usher, states: “For 43 years, we have been anchored in this community, not just through our services but through a building funded and constructed by the people we serve. Local clubs, businesses, and countless individuals have invested their resources to create a space where children can thrive. Our mission extends beyond the walls of our facility; it's about reaching children in their natural environments and fostering their inclusion and success. This eviction not only strips us of our home but could negatively impact the support system for numerous families relying on us and has drastic impact on our overall financial position.”
Despite longstanding assurances from NSW Health dating back to 1997, promises to maintain or replace Shaping Outcomes' facility "like-for-like" have been reneged. Northern NSW Local Health District have advised there is no space to accommodate Shaping Outcomes at the new hospital facility and have provided no formal offers to support ongoing operations or compensation. The abrupt eviction notice forces the organization into a precarious situation, scrambling to secure temporary accommodations that fall short of meeting long-term needs.
This unexpected move by the NSW government is more than just a setback; it's a betrayal of the community's trust and effort. We're now at a crossroads, facing the monumental task of finding a new home for our services,” says CEO, Col Usher. He emphasizes, “This isn't just about a building; it's about the children and families whose futures we're shaping. We're calling on the community's support more than ever, to help us navigate this crisis and continue our mission.”
Shaping Outcomes urgently appeals to the community for support in securing a new facility where children can receive the essential care and support they need. We urge you to voice your concern: Write to the NSW Health Minister, Ryan Parks, demanding justice for Shaping Outcomes.
Sign the e-petition for the NSW Parliament to advocate for the compensation of Shaping Outcomes for the facility built by our community.
Find out how at support.shapingoutcomes.com.au
Your voice can make a difference in preserving a vital resource for our children and their families.
