SA’s disability supported underneath authorities’s new advocacy service | Naracoorte Herald

Almost 100 South Australians who live with disabilities received support in the first four months of operation as part of the state’s new Disability Representation Service.

The greater support is in line with a recommendation by the SA government’s independent safety task force, which has been working to identify gaps in supervision and support for people with disabilities.

It is important that nobody has to fight alone without the support he needs to lead a fulfilling life.

The initiative also helps individuals and their carers find their way around the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

According to Health Minister Michelle Lensink, the individual advocacy service is available regardless of whether these people are currently NDIS participants or are having trouble accessing NDIS for the first time.

“It provides free legal representation and legal advice, as well as practical assistance such as personal assistance with meetings and medical appointments or information and referrals to other helpful resources,” said the minister.

People with disabilities and their families can contact the advocacy service for assistance on a range of topics, including understanding the NDIS and helping to overcome application rejections.

Since the service began on December 9, 2020, 97 people have been assisted, including:

• Support and advice for all 97 customers;
• Eight legal representations on behalf of individuals who are appealing an NDIS decision;
• Legal advice and personal assistance in attending meetings and medical appointments, resulting in increased NDIS support for 11 people so far;
• Help 10 people in rural and remote areas access NDIS or change NDIS plans; and
• Referral channels for 20 people who need special support services for non-NDIS related matters.

A total of $ 1.2 million has been allocated to the new service over a period of three years.

For more information, contact the Disability Advocacy Service on 1300 886 220.