On May 1, 2017, we will be only two months from the introduction of the NDIS. This will be a huge change for customers, families, carers and providers. With change comes opportunity. And it is an opportunity for families and for people with disability to be empowered with choice and control in the supports they receive.
For Lifebridge, our opportunity has been in the rethinking of our entire operations. The process of which has been very positive and the outcomes of which maintain our position of placing the customer at the heart of all that we do. Under the new funding of the NDIS however, they’re inevitably are going to be changes, likely to affect transport and physical sites.
Our greatest consideration throughout this process is how we balance the needs of our customers as well as, how we enable a sustainable operation. When it comes down to it, this is simply a change in thinking. The NDIS has always been about inclusion and offering activities in a centre is not always the best way to promote an inclusive community. And so, we will work to develop partnerships, increase inclusion and further integrate our customers with their local communities.
It will be no surprise that things will be different, but we venture forth with confidence that the changes are for our benefit and we remember that with nothing ventured, nothing can be gained. In the meantime, we will continue to provide you with the resources, skills and expertise at our disposal to help you prepare. We’ve already experienced several customers who have been contacted for their plans and they prepared using their Lifebridge pre-plans which made their process and transition far easier.
If you haven’t already, please consider registering for a pre-planning workshop. Preparation is the key to facing change.
For our aged care customers, you may be experiencing a little change in the form of staff restructuring. This may mean you receive notification about a new Support Coordinator. Regarding the Aged Care Reforms, I will be sharing further information on this in future communications.
As Lifebridge continues to transform, we endeavour to continue meeting our customer needs wherever possible. We will continue to communicate any changes and more importantly will continue to ensure you understand what these changes mean to you. If you haven’t requested any changes, or haven’t been informed of any changes then service will continue as per normal.