Free workshops are being held in Lismore, Ballina and Byron Bay to assist people in clarifying what the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is and how they can get the best out of the new system.
The workshops are being run by My Choice Matters, an independent organisation working with people with disability to live life their way and get the most out of the changing disability system. They are not a service provider.
‘This is a chance to start to plan for and get the most out of the NDIS,’ said facilitator Brandon Bear.
To take full advantage of the NDIS, people with disability, their family members and carers need to think in advance and prepare for their planning meetings.
The Get More Skills: A Good Life workshop facilitators discuss the NDIS, and how setting goals can help participants make the most of the new system.
‘We provide practical hands-on activities and take home tools. Workshops are free and open to anyone with a disability or who is a family member or carer, and we are able to supply interpreters, personal care and other assistance to make them as accessible as possible.
Brandon is excited to be travelling to run the workshops in the Northern Rivers region. Travelling all around the state he sees first-hand the benefits people are experiencing from being better informed about the NDIS, options and plans, and forming their personal goals.
‘We give people the chance to really think about their lives and the things that are important to them as individuals, rather than just what is “on offer”. They start considering hopes and dreams that they had put to the side due to a lack of opportunities. People leave the workshops feeling they have a practical starting point and that they know how to move forward towards a good life.’
The workshops are also open to people who have already begun the process of setting up their NDIS program.
‘The NDIS works on an annual review process,’ continued Brandon.
‘Even for people who have begun the process they can still learn skills and gain tools to use in that review process and we also look at the complaints process.’
Workshops
Ballina: Tuesday 20 June, 10.00am – 2.30pm, Ballina RSL, 240 River St, Ballina
Lismore: Wednesday 21 June, 10.00am – 2.30pm, Lismore Workers Sports Club, 202 Oliver Ave, Goonellabah
Byron Bay: Thursday 22 June, 10.00am – 2.30pm, Byron Bay Services Club, 132 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
To register for a workshop visit the events page on our website or call 1800 144 653.
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