Link February 2017 Volume 26 Issue 1 | Page 47

The second biggest issue relates to the people working in the sector and the changes they are experiencing . It is a very turbulent time for support workers and they are struggling with the challenges of the casualisation of their jobs and the need for them to be more flexible and sales-oriented . We are also expecting a massive influx of new workers to the sector and minimum quality standards need to be agreed and safeguarded to protect both clients and support workers . Our workers need to be supported through this time .
Our other massive challenge is ensuring the breadth of services offered today is still available to customers in the future . The effect of the changes happening under
the NDIS may cause some to stop providing some of the services that are currently underfunded in the NDIS . This inability to offer certain services may limit the total offering available to customers or may make it more difficult for customers to source their services . We need to work with the NDIS to ensure that supports are adequately funded and that consumers don ’ t lose out .
Regarding the NDIS , what has been your organisation ’ s experience to date ? About 5 % of our clients are currently NDIS funded . We have always been individually funded and we have always billed in arrears so we are well-structured to respond to the administrative challenges of the NDIS . We experienced difficulties
with the NDIS billing portal and still have challenges to overcome but we are learning by doing and educating ourselves in transitioning service models that are viable . We are working to ensure that we thrive and continuously improve our service offering to NDIS participants . Our key challenge is in funding a new marketing approach .
If you were Prime Minister for the day , what one thing would you do to benefit people with disability ? I would take some time to experience a small part of life in the way that a person with disability does and open the conversation to allow people with disabilities to express their most pressing need and respond as quickly and successfully as possible .
Great
Holidays and Travel for people with disabilities .
We believe that taking a holiday should be hassle free . Leisure Options is Australia ’ s supported holiday specialist and our qualified staff will look after you every step of the way .
● National award winning business operating since 1994
● Holiday guarantee ensures your holiday is never cancelled
● Over 80 holidays each year to local , national and international destinations
● Choice of either group or individualised touring
● Our experienced and friendly staff are suitably qualifi ed including a registered nurse available for advice and support
● High staff ratios ensure you receive the support and attention you deserve
● Registered NDIS service provider
Let us make your holiday dreams come true .
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For more information call 1300 363 713 ( toll free ) or visit our website www . leisureoptions . com . au linkonline . com . au industry
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