Residents get community shop

Social innovation has been on the state government’s agenda for nearly 12 months, with $14 million in the Social Innovation Grants Program kitty aimed at supporting organisations that develop new ways of delivering social services.

The latest recipient is Therapy Through Technology, which has received $146,000 to deliver innovative ‘shop-front’ social welfare services and support to City of Swan residents.

Named The Community Shop, Community Services Minister Robyn McSweeney said the service was an example of best practice in social innovation.

“The Community Shop will provide a highly visible support service in the Centrepoint Shopping Centre in Midland to assist local people to connect with the relevant government agencies to meet their needs,” Mrs McSweeney said.

Four organisations will share in $2.1 million in the second round of Social Innovation Grants announced in December.  Round four of the grants program is open until February 24.  

“The Social Innovation Grants Program is expected to make a significant contribution over time towards the establishment of a culture of innovation in the delivery of human services in Western Australia,” the minister said.