Customised TV for support groups
Headway Gippsland's Warragul social support group has received a new, customised television cabinet.
Made possible by a grant from the Warragul Country Club and a donation of materials from Warragul Bunnings, the television cabinet was constructed and designed by the Warragul Men's Shed.
The cabinet has been fully customised to meet several of the support group's needs.
A 65-inch smart television was mounted inside the cabinet, which had cupboards underneath and a large whiteboard on the back. Sections of the cabinet were designed so items can be velcroed on.
As the group currently meets in a shared location, the cabinet could be locked and was on wheels for easy transport.
Men's Shed president David Jarman drew up the plan for the cabinet himself after spending some time consulting with the group and Headway Gippsland Warragul social support group coordinator Michelle Meggetto.
"To draw it up, it probably took three or four hours," he said.
"On and off it probably took two weeks all up to build it, but there have been little hiccups here and there when I've been waiting for materials or components I needed to finish it off."
The Men's Shed is currently looking for a new location, so this project had to be completed at Mr Jarman's home.
Three other members of the Men's Shed accompanied Mr Jarman to transport and assemble the television cabinet on the big day, and after it was handed over the Shed members joined the support group for lunch.
Headway's Warragul-based social support group meets every Friday afternoon at Warragul Senior Citizens Centre and is primarily attended by people with acquired brain injuries. The group has been operating for more than 25 years.
Members can participate in social activities and games and learn new skills.
The group members said they were feeling enthusiastic about the opportunities the television will offer them, especially after the challenges they experiences during the pandemic.
Ms Meggetto said they applied for the cabinet because it became apparent during lockdown that they needed to be able to use technology to keep in contact.
"Slowly we were able to get back into the program, but a lot of our guys live in supported accommodation, and they couldn't come because they had really strict restrictions," she said.
Ms Meggetto said the television will help the group reduce isolation and increase their knowledge and use of technology.
The aim is to use the television to conduct Zoom meetings, connect with other support groups and be able to show videos, conduct games, and do activities like trivia competitions.