NEW SERVICE FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN REQUIRING INTENSIVE SUPPORT

The Stanhope Government is to provide $1.7 million over four years to develop a new service to assist families who have children with intensive support needs — particularly those with challenging behaviours such as Autism.

“Each year a number of family situations come to the attention of Disability ACT — and other agencies — because the people concerned are no longer able to manage the challenging behaviours of adolescents, particularly those with an intellectual disability and autism,” Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services, John Hargreaves, said.

“Extra support is clearly required for these families and comes on top of the $1.63 million over four years announced as part of last year’s Budget for increased autism assessment and support.

“Disability ACT will work with Therapy ACT and the Office for Children, Youth and Family Support to develop an integrated service delivery model that is responsive to the needs of the young people and their families.

“Initially, research and consultation will be undertaken with families to ensure the support provided is properly targeted and in tune with individual requirements.

“It is envisaged that the new service would undertake assessments and coordinate assistance and support programs, including the development of behavioural management plans.

Following research and consultation, other services provided could include:

•	in-home support including training for families in the implementation of challenging behaviour management plans; 

•	respite services, including out of home breaks; and 

•	independent living skilling as well as other activity programs for the young person. 

“The research and consultation phase will begin immediately and it is expected that the new service will commence early in 2006,” Mr Hargreaves said.
Statement ends