Innovation and Research Agenda Strengthened by Key Appointment

Leading not-for-profit aged care provider Benetas has this week welcomed a new Innovation, Policy and Research Manager to drive the organisation’s advocacy agenda.

Dr Sophie Mepham, who comes to the role with an extensive research background including experience running a large clinical research unit at the Peter MacCullum Cancer Centre and working with the Federal Department of Industry, the National Health and Medical Research Council and Swinburne University on national clinical research projects, will be responsible for managing Benetas’ significant portfolio of research projects.

These projects include the $1.2 million Frailty Screening Project, participation in the inaugural International Longevity Centre Australasia and partnership with Family Mediation and Counselling Victoria to deliver the Seniors Mediation Program.

The appointment strengthens Benetas’ longstanding commitment to advocating for the needs of older people and their families to facilitate a positive experience of ageing.

Dr Mepham, who holds a PhD, said her vision for the role would focus on working closely with key internal and external stakeholders to further the innovative, evidence-based programs offered by Benetas.

“As well as collaborating with staff from across the business, we’ll be strengthening the organisation’s external relationships to continue to drive excellent research and advocacy for older people, and pursuing and creating new partnerships,” said Dr Mepham.

“Our aim is to develop aged care research capacity that extends across carers as well as our customers.”

Benetas CEO Sandra Hills said Dr Mepham’s appointment reflected the organisation’s commitment to improving the lives of older people through translating research findings into best practice.

“We have always prioritised producing research that can be used to improve aged care services and models of care and having Sophie on board will only enhance this,” said Ms Hills.

“Sophie’s extensive research background means we’re even better placed to make sure we’re conducting and delivering research projects which will result in better outcomes for the people we work with, and the broader aged care industry.”

Benetas’ investment in its Innovation, Policy and Research department is part of the organisation’s contribution to its social dividend, which also includes an extensive pastoral care and fundraising program. 

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