Helping Hand has announced it is acquiring Kindred Living in Whyalla, SA, one year after taking over the management of the Not For Profit residential care provider in 2021.

The acquisition of Kindred Living will be complete by 25 November 2022, when the current Management Agreement concludes.

Chris Stewart, Helping Hand’s CEO, says he is pleased with the outcome.

“We have worked extremely hard to create a sustainable business model that delivers a high standard of care to those most vulnerable in the Whyalla community. This decision will also secure the employment for over 200 staff in the region,” Chris said.

Prof Brenda Wilson (pictured), Helping Hand’s Board Chair, places the acquisition in the broader context of the industry.

“The Aged Care Royal Commission raised concerns in regards to access to aged care services in regional, rural and remote areas. This includes older people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Our expansion in Whyalla will enable Helping Hand to deliver services that significantly benefit older Australians in the region,” she said.

Kindred Living last year shut down its Annie Lockwood Court residential aged care facility due to staff shortages. It currently owns two other care homes in the Whyalla area: Copperhouse Court (top) and Yeltana Nursing Home.