“The NDIS signals a recognition that people with a disability have ambitions and a right to personal fulfilment”, says Endeavour Foundation CEO Andrew Donne, describing the introduction of the scheme as a ‘springboard to a better Australia’.
“The prospect of supporting people as they embrace this new era is hugely exciting. The beauty of the NDIS is that decisions about your life and your plan are yours to make,” he said.
“People with a disability will become a far more visible part of our community as the NDIS makes it easier for them to get involved in community groups and events, join the workforce, take part in learning and training opportunities, live independently and start to achieve other life goals.
“Employment is a top priority for us, because we see every day how it boosts confidence and self-esteem, connects people with their community and gives a strong sense of purpose.
“We’ll be continuing to provide meaningful employment opportunities at our sites in Castle Hill, Mt Druitt and Seven Hills.
“In addition, we’ve developed a tailored, two year Transition to Work program which will help people to achieve their career goals, with four and a half days a week spent learning and putting their new skills into practice through paid, supported employment. The program will help to develop the core skills necessary for a successful working life, while helping build relationships and connections within the community.”
Adrienne Bennett, from the Seven Hills site, says that the ability to “get a job and keep a job” has given her a new lease of life.
“I’ve been here for four years and I’m really happy. Having something permanent after being long-term unemployed has been brilliant. I look forward to coming into work and have made friends that I see outside. Work is great and there are opportunities here for me.”
For Ryan Woods, his experiences at the Mt Druitt site have enabled him to grow in confidence.
“When you are learning a new task, if you don’t get it straight away the Team Leader will continue until you do get it, they don’t give up,” Ryan said.
“I like the staff and I’ve made lots of new friends. I feel more confident and I feel that I have gained respect from people,” he said.
Endeavour Foundation’s Specialist Behaviour Support team can also provide specialised assistance and training around complex needs and challenging behaviour, with an explicit focus on quality of life and human rights protections.
To speak to us in person visit our Gold Sponsor Booth G4 at the upcoming Nepean Disability Expo 16th & 17th Sept 2016.
Visit our Website: https://www.endeavour.com.au