Disability Services Commission Annual Report

2.2 Service Reports — Individual and Family Support
undertaken to their respite premises; and another agency reported 107 less therapy
service users following improvements in their own data collection.
Major Achievements 2007–2008
Throughout 2007–2008 the Commission continued to enhance its commitment to
individuals and families in metropolitan and rural areas. For example, waiting lists
for Autism assessments were addressed and an enhanced psychology strategy for
regional areas was implemented. In addition, a new Memorandum of Understanding
between the Commission and the South West Area Health Service was implemented,
with a commitment by both parties to providing a responsive and efficient therapy
service for people with disabilities living in the south west. A framework was
developed to address a sector wide strategy responding to the needs of people with
disabilities, who sometimes exhibit challenging behaviours, and their families and
carers.
In the area of aids and equipment, the audit of the Community Aids and Equipment
Program was completed, while the program was also promoted through various
avenues.
During the year, further progress was made on the development of an outcomes
framework for Alternatives to Employment (ATE) services. As part of this process,
workshops were conducted with all ATE service providers. A regional model for
school-age disability professional support services was implemented so that services
are consistent with education districts enabling a more effective partnering with
schools. In addition, a disability professional services register was developed for
early childhood and school-age intervention services to track the demand for these
services.
Another important move during the year was the transfer of the Department of
Health dental clinic, which was located in the Commission’s central office in West
Perth, to a community-based setting.
Other achievements in 2007–2008 included the development of a Community Living
Skills Development and Learning Framework focusing on adults living independently
in the community, the implementation of the recommendations of the Disability First
Stop review, plus reviews of the Partnerships in Protection process, Continence
Management and Support Scheme and the Commission’s Intensive Family Support
funding.
Looking Forward ‣‣‣
In 2008–2009, we will:
develop more flexible approaches to the provision of carer and family support;
commence the development of an early child development framework for
children with disabilities;
Disability Services Commission Annual Report 2007–2008 33