It has been stated that the NDIS is the greatest social change since the introduction of Medicare. And a scheme of this magnitude cannot be introduced and successfully implemented if organisations such as Lifebridge Australia do not change and align with the new principles and guidelines.
As such, Lifebridge is currently going through some big changes and although people can grow accustomed to schedules and routines as it gives them a feeling of comfort, this way of operating isn’t sustainable. We’re required to be agile, flexible and opportunistic to provide the best possible supports to our customers.
We’re humbled by the positive attitudes and how many of our customers are already embracing the changes to date. Where possible many of our customers have had the opportunity to be a part of the change and to provide feedback. Prior to the launch of our new Murwillumbah Hub, many customers visited the site and provided comments on the design, location and fit out. Which was a very positive experience.
People are excited by being in the community and the opportunity for increased capacity building.
Both our Chinderah and Murwillumbah Hubs are proving to be a huge success and we’re excited for the launch of our West Tweed hub as well. Establishing hubs within the local community, is very much in the spirit of the NDIS. The scheme is fundamentally about increasing capacity and community integration. Our hubs are a step towards achieving just that and will provide our customers with increased:
- integration with the local communities
- access to mainstream activities
- opportunities to meet individual goals
- range of choices
- time participating in activities
As we embark on this new adventure, let’s take a moment to reflect. Lifebridge have a long history in the Tweed Shire and during that time we have built up quite a reputation for our customer service. We have seen many changes happen during our 30 years in operation. Customers and staff have come and gone, our locations have changed, but throughout it all we have always stood strong and proud and we will continue to do so for many years to come.