In-home care specialist Silverchain Group has marked its 130th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to providing specialised care directly to people’s homes.
At an event held at Government House Adelaide, Silverchain Group board chair Anne Skipper expressed gratitude for the pioneering efforts of the organisation’s founders in the late 1800s, who recognised the urgent need for accessible nursing services.
“Over many decades, as Australians endured two world wars, the Great Depression and a rapidly changing world, Silverchain Group’s dedicated care teams remained steadfast in their focus on delivering a high standard of care in innovative ways, while also ensuring that more people could access high-quality care at home,” Ms Skipper stated.
“Our legacy has instilled in us the importance of embracing innovation in the way we work as well as tirelessly advocating for our clients. Today, we continue to pioneer new ways to care for the diverse needs of all Australians in the comfort and familiarity of their homes.”
Silverchain’s origins date back to 1894 when leaders including Dr Allan Campbell, Miss Edith Noble, and Rev B.C. Stephenson established the District Trained Nursing Society in South Australia, laying the groundwork for what would become the Royal District Nursing Service (now RDNS Silverchain).
In 1905, journalist Muriel Chase initiated a campaign in Western Australia to encourage young readers to support the less fortunate, leading to the creation of the Silver Chain League and the employment of WA’s first district nurse, Sister S.L. Copley. This initiative is the origin of the Silverchain name.
Chief executive Dale Fisher noted the organisation’s pioneering spirit, highlighting its early 1980s initiative to provide end-of-life care services in homes.
“Our palliative care services in Adelaide and Perth have helped generations of Australians to die in the comfort of their own home,” Ms Fisher said. “This is just one example of how Silverchain Group has continued to deliver on our Best Care promise: care that is safe, personalised, connected and effective.”
Since its national expansion began in 2011 with the merger of RDNS and Silverchain, the organisation now serves 140,000 clients annually across Australia and employs 5,900 people, including nurses, doctors, allied health professionals, and researchers.
“For 130 years, our clients have welcomed us into their communities. Our committed care and clinical teams have championed our clients’ independence, their right to choose where they’re cared for, and supported their health and wellbeing,” Ms Fisher added.
Looking ahead, Silverchain aims to leverage new technologies to enhance care delivery.
“We have developed partnerships with universities throughout Australia, as well as with international care leaders, to drive innovation in home care and develop improved models of care for the future of the health and aged care systems,” she explained.
The 130th anniversary celebration was hosted by the Governor of South Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, underscoring the significant milestone in Silverchain’s history.
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