Seeking new solutions for young people with complex health issues
23 May 2006
Developing appropriate respite, accommodation and support options for young people with severe acquired brain injury (ABI) or neurological conditions is the aim of a new project set up in Geelong. The project, initiated and funded by local disability organisation Karingal, is also looking at creating new opportunities and to making the path easier for families.
Jacqui Pierce, Project Worker, said “We’re aware there are a lot of families caring for young family members with severe ABI or neurological conditions and we want them to contact us to discuss their issues. There are critical needs in the community and we want to develop new and appropriate responses to those needs. “
“We also recognize that families caring for young people with ABI are often exhausted with their commitments, but we urge individuals and families to come forward and contact us because it is imperative we fully understand concerns.”
The Geelong area has no appropriate facility for the accommodation of people with severe ABI or neurological conditions with complex health issues. This has led to young people being inappropriately and inadequately accommodated in nursing homes designed to care for the elderly.
Back in April 2005 Dr Brian Donovan, Director of Innovation of Karingal and local mother and carer Vanda Fear addressed a Senate Hearing on the plight of young people inappropriately living in nursing homes and the situation for families who are choosing to care for their children at home.
They spoke of the plight of the 6000 young people currently in nursing homes across Australia, many in situations where their basic needs are not being met. They also spoke about the difficulties experienced by families caring for a young adult with severe ABI or neurological condition and the lack of support and choices for families in this position.
“Generally speaking the caring role is overwhelmingly taken on by, or left to, women,” said Jacqui. “And further to that, there is a lack of appropriate respite options for those families who are attempting to maintain their care at home.”
The Project will:
- Identify people in the target population in the Barwon area
- Identify major needs confronting people with severe acquired brain injury or neurological conditions and their families
- Identify innovative and sustainable respite and long term accommodation options
- Develop strategic actions to meet the major needs
- Publish findings
People wishing to contact the Network can phone Jacqui Pierce on 5258 4205 or email to: j_pierce@bigpond.net.au
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