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Lisa Smith recently rang VALID to speak to one of our advocates, on behalf of her daughter Ann, 18, because she was unhappy with the implementation of her daughter’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan. Lisa expressed concern that they hadn’t been receiving effective help with supports for Ann, who has autism and other disabilities.
Lisa and Ann met with the advocate to discuss reviewing the NDIS plan. They informed the advocate that Ann is vulnerable socially, is highly open to influence and reactions to others, and withdraws from contact when anxious.
Ann attends a special school for children with mild intellectual disabilities. Ann has developed a keen interest in crafts and arts activities and Lisa was hopeful this could be extended through the NDIS Funded Services.
The VALID advocate assisted Ann and her family to revise the approach that had been taken in the previous 18 months of Ann’s NDIS Plan implementation. Lisa wanted help for Ann to gain strategies to help her manage the very difficult sensitivities and emotional responses she exhibits daily. The problems seemed mainly to be associated with Ann’s high anxiety levels. She has expressed interest in attending community-based activities and gaining more independence. The advocate believed Ann would benefit from a psychologist and other assessments and suggested an NDIS Review of the Plan should be requested with a continuation of Support Coordination.
The family, the advocate and the Support Coordinator worked together to meet with an NDIA Planner to create a new plan that focused on Ann’s needs and interests, based on new allied health assessments along with activities within the broader community. A Support Coordinator was appointed and the Plan is now finally being effectively implemented. Lisa and the rest of Ann’s family feel that her needs are being met and will feel more confident accessing the community.
If you or a family member are in need of advocacy support you can contact VALID for advocacy support on 03 9416 4003 or email [email protected]
