Family Advocacy

On being returned to the community: Imposed ideology versus quality of life

The central argument of this paper is that more attention must be paid to providing accommodation options with a concern for each individual's quality of life. It takes the closure of St. Nicholas Hospital in Melbourne as an example.

Finding Friends

A short account by Patricia, the mother of Jane who has a disability, describes how she assisted her daughter with coping with a difficult period in her life. In the midst of other life changes Jane had to fit into a new neighbourhood.

The Empowering Value of "Life-Giving" Assumptions about People

This keynote presentation is deeply philosophical. In it, Kendrick thoughtfully considers how the assumptions we make (individually and as a society) about vulnerable people impact on their lives - for better or for worse.

The Gift

Jim Collins lives, isolated and neglected, in a nursing home. This article looks at the ways a citizen advocate could make a difference in Jim Collins' life and at the process of recruiting of a citizen advocate for Jim.

Taking Control

In this article Sylvana shares her son's initial steps into post school life. As with most families, the self managed approach at first seemed to onerous to manage with family, work and other commitments. It was also perceived as an option available to only a select few.

Translating Self-Determination Concepts into Support for Adults with Severe Disabilities

In order for people with severe disabilities to become more self-determining, they need to have the opportunity to exercise choice and control over their life. This requires self-awareness and a supportive environment. In this report, the authors discuss the components of self-determination and describe several barriers to self-determination.

An Introduction to People with Intellectual Disability & their Association with the Law

In the context of the criminal justice system, people with intellectual disability lead a vulnerable life: a life of risk that they become a victim, witness, suspect or offender.

The Homes West Experience - Steps to Independent Living for Adults with a Disability

Homes West is a small community based service established in Brisbane, Queensland as a result of families having a dream of a better future for their child with disability.

Jacob's Story

Jacob’s story is a short film which features the journey of a teenager in year eight, at his local government high school. Jacob is an engaging and active member of his school and community.

Congregation and Segregation - Why it just doesnt make sense!

This collection of articles offers personal perspectives on why individual housing arrangements are more suitable to people with disability than segregated or congregated housing. Housing choices should be made on the basis of enhancing individuals' quality of life, not on the basis of economic efficiency.

We work with families in NSW to defend and promote the rights and interests of people with developmental disability

Search Results

On being returned to the community: Imposed ideology versus quality of life

Finding Friends

The Empowering Value of "Life-Giving" Assumptions about People

The Gift

Taking Control

Translating Self-Determination Concepts into Support for Adults with Severe Disabilities

An Introduction to People with Intellectual Disability & their Association with the Law

The Homes West Experience - Steps to Independent Living for Adults with a Disability

Jacob's Story

Congregation and Segregation - Why it just doesnt make sense!