In The Field
Free online support to help parents navigate NDIS and advocate for their children
Freya Lucas
Oct 01, 2020
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Early childhood educators, and those in the broader sector, have welcomed the advent of free online support designed to help families to navigate, and take full advantage of, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) service network.
The ‘Parents as Case Coordinators’ program is offered exclusively online, and is a comprehensive free learning program developed by not-for-profit organisation, Learning Links, to empower parents to become an advocate for their child’s needs – offering support via digital training modules, interactive videos and downloadable resources.Ten interactive modules cover a range of topics that provide parents with a toolkit to set goals for their child, help them prioritise the level and types of supports needed, develop their child’s NDIS plan, and look after the wellbeing of their family.
Learning Links CEO Birgitte Maibom said the organisation was “very proud” of the new program, which she believes will empower families to navigate the complexities of support systems, including the NDIS, so that children can get the best possible outcomes.
“It aims to empower parents and families with the confidence to make informed decisions for their children over their lifetime,” she said.
Learning Links is well positioned to produce content in this space, with nearly 50 years of experience in supporting children with disabilities and learning difficulties.
The organisation recognised the need to support the large number of parents struggling to independently understand the NDIS and the planning processes and help them to successfully manage their children’s plan, avoiding confusion or delays.
Whilst the NDIS has put measures in place to address this issue, greater focus is required to build the capacity of parents and carers to be informed, exercise choice and have control over their child’s supports, Ms Maibom said.
Learning Links has previously provided direct support to parents and families on a face to face basis and hopes the new online format will extend the vital support to many more families in need across Australia.
The program has been well received thus far, winning a series of awards at LearnX Live, which recognises outstanding learning and support technologies, including Gold awards for ‘Best Interactive Scenario ELearning Design’, ‘Best Video ELearning Design’ and ‘Best Diversity/Inclusion Strategy’.
Parents can register for the program here.
The development of the Parents as Case Coordinators program has been funded by the National Disability Insurance Agency through the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) National Readiness Grants.
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