Samaritans - Mission Statement

Mission Statement

Identity

The Samaritans Foundation was established in 1984 as the social welfare organisation of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle which covers the Hunter, the Manning and the Central Coast regions of New South Wales. We seek to express God’s care for all people, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalised in our community.

Vision

For communities where there is love, peace, justice, reconciliation and dignity for all people, where there is care for the vulnerable and their environment and where each individual has the opportunity to contribute and participate fully in community life.

Mission

We seek to provide unconditional support to people in their needs and to promote social and economic policies which alleviate human suffering.

Aims

We aim to:

Provide effective and professional social welfare services within a community development framework, with particular regard to those marginalised through disability, injustice, intolerance and lack of opportunity
Promote social caring activity in partnership with parishes through volunteer and self-help groups
Promote with courage the development and implementation of social policy which is consistent with Christian teaching; evaluate and comment on social and economic change openly, positively and with integrity
Actively pursue opportunities for growth that give expression to the mission of Samaritans.

Core Values

Compassion
Integrity
Justice

Agency Ethos

Samaritans Services...

develop workable pathways to achieve the agency vision
promote and demonstrate human rights, inclusive practices, social justice and equal opportunity
respond to contemporary social issues in innovative and creative ways, engaging with the wider community to reflect local priorities and aspirations
are open to all people regardless of age, race, religion, culture, disability, sexual preference or political allegiance
are encouraged to develop in co-operation with the local Anglican parish and other community groups
are developed in partnership with Aboriginal agencies where appropriate
support people to achieve their potential, to take control of their lives and to live with dignity and integrity
ensure that service users have the opportunity to participate in decision affecting them and their families
are regularly reviewed and evaluated..

Samaritans employees and volunteers can expect…

safe working environments which promote and celebrate staff well-being
their commitment, creativity and achievements to be recognised, affirmed and valued
to be treated with dignity and respect at all times
to be involved in decision-making where appropriate
competent and sound management practices
a work environment that respects and recognises the significance of cultural diversity and tolerance
ongoing training and encouragement to achieve their potential in their work
sound policies and procedures
time to reflect on best practice, justice and spirituality.

We expect that our employees and volunteers will...

demonstrate the values of compassion, integrity and justice in the way in which we work with each other and within communities
celebrate and respect diversity
provide quality service to the community and the service users
contribute to teamwork with a common purpose and enthusiasm
demonstrate open and honest communication
uphold Samaritans policies, standards and values
participate in appropriate decision-making
be willing to learn and further develop their professional skillsbe accountable for their actions.
be accountable for their actions.

Samaritans clients can expect…

to be treated with dignity and respect
to be the key decision maker in case planning and to be involved in decision-making where appropriate
their spirituality, integrity and well-being to be upheld and affirmed
confidentiality
competent and caring staff members
sound practices, policies and procedures
respect for their strengths, experiences, skills and cultural differences
open communication with staff
access to their own file.

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