The self directed approach in NSW: The story so far
Stronger Together 2 - A new direction for disability services in NSW 2006 - 2016 - includes a time frame by which anyone receiving services in NSW "...will have the option of using an individualised and portable funding arrangement." (See page 21)
My life, my way - Choosing the Self Managed Model for your day program - is a publication from the NSW government that explains self management and how it can work in NSW for all people of all ages.
Working in Person Centred Ways: A Resource Book for NSW Advocacy and Information Services reflects on what is a person - centred approach and how people's lives can be shaped to their unique interests, preferences, aspirations and needs.
The NSW government has also produced fact sheets about person centred approaches in English, other languages and for Aboriginal families.
If you have questions about any of the material - its potential relevance and how you can prepare - you can contact Resourcing Families. If you would like to read stories about how families have embraced self directed opportunities click here.
A description of some of the recent and emerging self directed possibilities in NSW is listed below. It is important to note that not all of these examples include all of the elements of a truly self directed approach.
1. Attendant Care Program - Direct Funding option
The Attendant Care Program provides funding to assist people with a physical disability, or those who require personal assistance to complete activities of daily living. There is a Direct Funding option, where funds are paid directly to the individual so that they can purchase approved services.
2. Community Participation Program - Self Managed option
According to the Guidelines, the Community Participation Program aims to assist young people with disability to develop the skills they need to work towards their goals, increase their independence and participate as valued and active members in the community. There are some spaces available under a Self Managed option, where it is intended that a person with disability and their family/advocate are able to design an individual program within the funds that have been allocated.
3. Family Assistance Fund
This fund aims to provide families with small amounts of discretionary funds to cover expenses that are not provided for under other funding sources. Among other things, funding may be available to make practical changes at home such as modifications to the house or car, or to purchase equipment and services.
4. my plan, my choice (EarlyStart)
This pilot describes one of its intended outcomes as giving families more opportunities for decision making and choice over matters relating to their child with disability. The funds are paid to an intermediary service, who works in partnership with the family to provide information, assistance and advice in identifying the supports that the child requires. The intermediary also manages financial, legal and administrative requirements, and assists with the development of a personal budget.
5. Extended Family Support
Funding may be available to families who are at risk of relinquishing care of a child with disability. According to its Fact Sheet, it aims to put in place “whatever it takes” types of support to keep the child in the care of the family context wherever possible.
6. Life Choices Program - Self Managed option
According to the Life Choices Program Guidelines, one of its intended outcomes is to assist adults aged 25 to 54 who have moderate to very high support needs achieve their goals and participate as valued members of the community. Under the Self Managed option, it is stated that participants can design their own customised package of support, usually involving a range of activities outside of centre based programs. An intermediary manages financial, legal and administrative requirements.
7. Active Ageing - Self Managed option
According to the guidelines, one of its intended outcomes is to assist people with disability aged between 55 and 64 (or an Aboriginal adult aged between 40 and 64) achieve their goals and participate as valued members in the community. As with Life Choices, some places are available under a Self Managed option in which it is intended that adults will be able to design their own customised support. An intermediary is also available to manage financial, legal and administrative requirements.
8. my plan, my choice (Packaged Support for Older Carers)
This support targets carers over 60 years of age (or over 45 years of age for Aboriginal carers). An Ageing, Disability and Home Care employee assists to help plan supports, while a non-government support intermediary assists with budgeting and the coordination and purchase of planned supports.
9. Supported Living Fund NSW
The Supported Living Fund is an initiative that aims to provide people with a disability, their families and carers greater opportunity to create a good life, and build person centred and sustainable living arrangements. The focus is on giving people with a disability, their families and carers a truly flexible and individualised option in the planning of ongoing living supports.
To read more information on the Supported Living Fund click here.
