Glass Door staff are a credit to humanity. I genuinely feel my caseworker actually cares about me.

- Shelter guest in his 30s, 2018

Caseworkers are on hand throughout the year to offer advice, advocacy and practical assistance. Our casework and advice service is open to all; you do not need to have a local connection to speak to one of the team. 

Ask to speak to a caseworker at one of our partner drop-in day centres. Caseworkers will occasionally visit the night shelters to make contact with guests, but the best way is to ask staff at the drop-ins if you can make an appointment. 

Caseworkers help individuals with a range of issues, including:

  • accessing accommodation
  • accessing other specialist services such as drug, alcohol and mental health services.
  • obtaining birth certificates and other forms of lost or stolen ID
  • opening bank accounts when possible
  • registering with a GP and dental services
  • writing CVs and applying for jobs 
  • dealing with benefit issues
  • accessing storage
  • returning to country of origin, when appropriate
  • maintaining accommodation

Glass Door's advice service offers an individualised, tailored approach. Our caseworkers will accompany guests to appointments if needed and have even been known to visit our guests in the hospital and in detox facilities. 

"We have expertise beyond helping people who have recourse to public funds," says Neil Parkinson, Glass Door's senior caseworker. Neil adds:

The fact that we are flexible and can take on a range of things means we can have a big impact on someone's outcome.

Read George Jerjian's profile of Neil.

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