Health · Housing · Self-advocacy
Building the skills that support lasting housing stability
AdvoKey is a collaboration led by ESG360 and Xstitch Health, co-designed with residents at an accommodation service for older men experiencing homelessness. It addresses health-related barriers that can make it harder to secure and sustain long-term housing.
Developed by Dr Gaj Panagoda and Dave Lyons, the program brings together primary healthcare, practical daily living skills and peer support. Its focus is on helping people understand their health, navigate services and build confidence in advocating for their own needs.
Four areas of focus
- Health knowledge: helping residents understand their health conditions and their longer-term impact.
- Health management: building skills in medication routines, recognising symptoms and managing ongoing conditions.
- Self-advocacy: strengthening communication with GPs and other providers so residents can seek appropriate care and support.
- Independent living: developing practical skills in meal preparation, cleaning and everyday activities that support a sustainable tenancy.
A connected, community approach
AdvoKey brings together a local general practice and pharmacy, with support for independent living skills from the Queensland Country Women’s Association, Sunnybank/Coopers Plains Branch. The program also acknowledges the support of Cr Danita Parry.
The proposed delivery model includes clearer health information, coordinated referrals and support from people with lived experience. These connections are intended to help residents maintain engagement with healthcare and prepare for transitions to permanent housing.
Proposed pilot at 38KPR
ESG360 and Xstitch Health are seeking partners and funding for a proposed six-month pilot at 38KPR in inner Brisbane. The pilot is intended to refine the delivery model, measure outcomes and strengthen links between primary healthcare, hospitals and housing providers.
Current stage: seeking partners and funding. The benefits described are program aims; pilot outcomes are yet to be evaluated.
Read the AdvoKey overview
The briefing document outlines the program’s background, key activities and proposed pilot.
Learn more about the collaboration on Xstitch Health’s projects page, or contact ESG360 to discuss supporting the pilot.
project milestones
brief description
A collaboration between ESG360 and Xstitch Health helping older men build health knowledge, self-advocacy and independent living skills to support lasting housing stability.
client
A collaboration led by ESG360 and Xstitch Health
