Have you identified a vulnerable group that is not accessing the COVID-19 vaccine?
North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is seeking expressions of interest from General practices, pharmacies, local government, other healthcare providers and community support organisations for a number of grants.
Background
To expedite the vaccination of vulnerable populations identified as having difficulty accessing COVID-19 vaccination, the Australian Government is providing Primary Health Networks (PHNs) with flexible funding support for innovative, local, short-term activities.
This is for distinct, time limited local projects that identify a particular vulnerable group not accessing vaccines through existing mechanisms. The intent is to capitalise on established and trusted relationships with vulnerable populations and those who cannot or do not wish to attend other vaccination sites.
The grants are designed to quickly boost vaccination numbers in communities where vaccination rates are currently low and where there are significant risks associated with COVID-19 transmission and to obtain maximum patient reach within a short time frame.
This is a short term, specifically targeted activity, that will operate from November – December 2021 (although some dose 2 vaccinations may be administered in early-mid January). North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is targeting LGAs and priority populations, however we also invite submissions for other areas and populations where you identify a specific vulnerable group with low vaccination rates.
The EOI will be open to general practices, pharmacies, local government, other healthcare providers, community and support organisations. Activities to be funded could include local engagement, support and coordination to drive vaccination, dedicated clinics in community locations or after hours, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates. Any activity proposed must not replace or duplicate any existing vaccination mechanisms and partnerships with different elements of the health and support sector are welcome.
What is involved?
The PHNs will offer:
- Grants from $1,000 – $20,000 (ex GST)
- Grants for larger amounts may be considered for sizeable activities with high patient reach
- Funding available for each activity will be dependent on the scope and reach of the proposal
- The EOI will remain open throughout October and November, but all activities must be completed by 31 December 2021 (although some dose 2 vaccinations may be administered in early-mid January).
Providers will:
- Identify the specific vulnerable group the activity will target and why this group was selected
- Identify the target location LGA(s) and/or postcode(s)
- Explain your existing relationship with the target group, the activities to be undertaken and the projected outcome(s)
- List the key stakeholders or partners
- Identify the vaccine provider group (e.g. General Practice, Pharmacy or State hub/service) that will be used in vaccinating the target group.
- Provide a timeline for the activity (all activities must be completed by December 31st, 2021)
- Provide a budget for the activity (template provided)
- Submit to NWMPHN an activity report on completion.
How to apply
If you are interested in the ‘EOI Vulnerable populations – specific targeted activities’, please complete the attached application form. Applications close 10am, Monday 29th November 2021. Due to the short-term nature of the grant, with constrained funding from the Commonwealth, applications will be assessed as they are received and the EOI period may finish before 28 November 2021 depending on the number of successful applications with subsequent exhaustion of the funding pool. It is suggested to submit your application as early as possible.
Please complete the below application form and email to primarycare@nwmphn.org.au
Download and fill:
For more information contact:
Christine Ferlazzo, Project Manager Vaccine Preventable Conditions
Phone: 03 8578 0538 Email: Christine.ferlazzo@nwmphn.org.au
