Question 23: Is there no more block-funding? Block-funded supports are changing and some will be funded through the NDIS. Decisions are still being made in regard to funding for advocacy and hearing specialists. The NDIS is an individualised approach, which includes personal planning to purchase services as required by the individual. Question 24: Will therapy services be funded for adults as well as children under the NDIS? Yes. Adult therapy services are currently block-funded. Under the NDIS, therapy services can be funded for adults. Question 25: How can I access service providers if I do not know where to go? There is a service directory available on the Disability Services’ website, however, it is acknowledged that it requires substantial work to make it more useable and accessible. Other Comments A number of attendees brought up issues particular to their situation which would not have been appropriate to discuss in this forum. In these instances, the facilitators agreed to discuss their issue with them after the session. Individuals were also directed to the Q and A room where staff from advocacy organisations and Disability Services were available to discuss individual issues. A number of people made comments and observations which have been grouped into general headings, including any comments made by the facilitators. Unaware of supports available There is an assumption that people are mentally well, educated and aware of what is available I feel like a lot of the responsibility on knowing what supports I need for my daughter rested on my shoulders. I Local Coordinators should take on more responsibility Feels like there is a lack of case management. Local Coordinators failed to suggest what types of services were available How can I access this information if I do not have the internet? It was acknowledged that while Local Coordinators can provide information on types of supports and the organisations which provide them, the Local Coordinators need to be mindful that they are not seen to steer individuals towards particular organisations. Disability Services noted that once the Local Coordinator developed a relationship with the individual, family and/or carer, it worked well in assisting the family to find service providers to meet their individual needs. People were advised that if they were not satisfied with the support received from their Local Coordinator, they could speak with the Disability Services Area Manager. Advocacy organisations can also assist with this, if needed.
Question 23: Is there no more block-funding? Block-funded supports are changing and some will be funded through the NDIS. Decisions are still being made in regard to funding for advocacy and hearing specialists. The NDIS is an individualised approach, which includes personal planning to purchase services as required by the individual. Question 24: Will therapy services be funded for adults as well as children under the NDIS? Yes. Adult therapy services are currently block-funded. Under the NDIS, therapy services can be funded for adults. Question 25: How can I access service providers if I do not know where to go? There is a service directory available on the Disability Services’ website, however, it is acknowledged that it requires substantial work to make it more useable and accessible. Other Comments A number of attendees brought up issues particular to their situation which would not have been appropriate to discuss in this forum. In these instances, the facilitators agreed to discuss their issue with them after the session. Individuals were also directed to the Q and A room where staff from advocacy organisations and Disability Services were available to discuss individual issues. A number of people made comments and observations which have been grouped into general headings, including any comments made by the facilitators. Unaware of supports available There is an assumption that people are mentally well, educated and aware of what is available I feel like a lot of the responsibility on knowing what supports I need for my daughter rested on my shoulders. I Local Coordinators should take on more responsibility Feels like there is a lack of case management. Local Coordinators failed to suggest what types of services were available How can I access this information if I do not have the internet? It was acknowledged that while Local Coordinators can provide information on types of supports and the organisations which provide them, the Local Coordinators need to be mindful that they are not seen to steer individuals towards particular organisations. Disability Services noted that once the Local Coordinator developed a relationship with the individual, family and/or carer, it worked well in assisting the family to find service providers to meet their individual needs. People were advised that if they were not satisfied with the support received from their Local Coordinator, they could speak with the Disability Services Area Manager. Advocacy organisations can also assist with this, if needed.