9-page SPECIAL SECTION
Introducing THE THREE Ds
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OUBLE amputee Dwayne Fernandes, 38, was born without his bulas and some toes and ngers, which a�ects his balance. Before he was 3 years old, he had ve surgeries and at age 11, Dwayne decided to replace his legs with prosthetic limbs. Dwayne receives disability supports from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which help him to live his life in Western Sydney. “I’m a high-energy amputee so I need good technology behind my prosthetic legs to get the most out of them. The prosthetic legs the NDIS funds mimics anyone else’s legs – I can walk up a hill, or I can run around with my ve-year-old daughter,” Dwayne said. Dwayne also uses his NDIS plan to access support to build on his mobility and strength. “I’m all about mobility. I know eventually I will use a wheelchair in the future, so I want to maximise every opportunity I have.” Dwayne describes himself as a double amputee, world record holding tower climber, husband and father of two. But Dwayne is also one third of the brains behind Minds at Play, a Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) online program to teach young people who live with a disability how to communicate and socialise. Dwayne’s love for D&D began eight years ago when he needed an outlet for some stress in his life. “My godchild has autism and I wondered if D&D would help give him the tools to engage in social situations while playing a game. I did some research and found there’s lots of bene ts of playing D&D for people with autism,” Dwayne said. Running the rst D&D session online in June 2020, Dwayne and his business part-
ners, Dan Papallo and Je� Ozog had no idea starting their side business in the middle of a pandemic would have a silver lining. “We started with 4 players, now we have over 530, and 40 employees,” Dwayne said. “Part of our initial success was because of COVID. We played online and our players never left their safe space which meant they were open to trying more things.” Ruth Jansen’s son Jacob has autism and is among many kids who have bene tted from Minds at Play. “It was bene cial having Jacob involved with such engaging personalities. Dwayne does a fantastic job of creating teams of kids with their various strengths and abilities,” Ruth said. “Jacob learned how to listen to the input of others and how to work with his team to achieve outcomes. “Social skills and boundaries are one of the greatest hurdles for Jacob and that safe environment helped him develop those skills, which will help him in the long run.” Progress like Jacob’s is why Dwayne is excited to watch Minds at Play grow and diversify. Their sessions are growing more popular and new programs are adding value to the autistic community. “At Minds at Play, anyone can come play, learn and make some new friends,” Dwayne said.
WE SUPPORT empowers individuals with disabilities, the aged and people of all ages in need of support to explore brighter futures with dignity and inclusion. WE SUPPORT delivers a guide to providers working in Australia’s most dynamic and diverse region – Greater Western Sydney. WE Support is published quarter in Blacktown News, Macarthur Advocate, Parramatta Times and Western Sydney Express in print and digital formats and widely circulated on social channels. Enquiries to wesupport@ accerssnews.com.au
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HE NDIS provides funding to eligible people with disability to gain more time with family and friends, greater independence, access to new skills, jobs, or volunteering in their community, and an improved quality of life. The NDIS also connects anyone with disability to services in their community. This may include connections to doctors, community groups, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools, as well as providing information about what support is provided by state government. The NDIS supports over 500,000 Australians with disability to access the services and supports they need. This includes supporting about 80,000 children with developmental delay, ensuring they receive supports early so that they achieve the best outcomes throughout their lives. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) The NDIA makes decisions about whether someone is eligible to become a NDIS participant and, if so, how much funding they will receive.
Early childhood partners The early childhood approach helps children younger
need to live the life they choose.
Remote Community Connectors Remote Community Connectors, also known as NDIS Connectors, play a key role in helping to deliver the NDIS in remote and very remote communities. This includes First Nations people with disability and those from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse background. NDIS Connectors work together to improve the lives of people with disability, their families and community.
Find a NDIS provider near you than six who have a developmental delay or children younger than nine with disability. Early childhood partners deliver the early childhood approach. Early childhood partners employ early childhood educators and allied health professionals who help children and their families access supports and services that are tailored to the child’s individual needs and circumstances.
Early childhood partners also help with connection to other appropriate supports such as community health services, playgroups and educational settings.
Local area coordination (LAC) partners Local area coordination partners are community-based organisations that help deliver local area coordination services in some parts of Australia.
Local area coordination partners work with people with disability aged nine to 64. For most people in this age range, a local area coordinator will be their main point of contact for the NDIS. Local area coordination supports people with disability to create and work towards their goals, build capacity to make their own decisions and choices and access the supports they
Some examples of where your donation saves lives: ✔ 18 month reduction in waiting times for children’s allergy testing at Mt Druitt Hospital ✔ Support for head & neck cancer patients with access to specialised feeds ✔ ECG machine for newborn care to diagnose heart disease
Change lives for the better Donate today at
betterfoundation.org.au
The provider finder tool can help you connect with your closest registered providers based on your suburb and postcode. The tool allows you to search based on where you are looking for services, provider name, and types of services or providers you are looking for. Visit www.ndis.gov.au TheField.jobs is a job site, built by and for people with disability, which connects people with disability with jobs from inclusive employers. Tap to find your next opportunity visit: www. thefield.jobs/Job/Home
Care and support for a brighter future
We’d love to hear from you.
Stone Community Care, Empowering Lives, Nurturing Independence. Offering Superior Care to Older Australians and Empowering Those Living with Disabilities
Phone: 0404 043 366 117 Aiken Road, West Pennant Hills New South Wales 2125, Australia Email: admin@stonecommunitycare.com.au PO BOX 307 West Pennant Hills NSW 2125
Hours Mon - Fri 09:00 am – 05:00 pm Sat 09:00 am – 01:00 pm Sun Closed
We are committed to delivering high quality disability services to meet the unique needs of the patients. Contact details below Get In Touch 1300 012 875 ndis@kingdomcare.org.au Ermington NSW 2115, Australia Follow Us
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MYPOWER FOUNDATIONS
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N 2017, Kylie Crambrook started Mypower Foundations as a sole trader to assist people with disabilities residing in the Blue Mountains. She quickly discovered that the enormity of services local people with disabilities sought was some-
STONE COMMUNITY CARE
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T Stone Community Care, we are a family-run business whose commitment to excellence in aged care and disability support sets us apart. As a registered NDIS provider, we are proud of our many years of experience o�ering specialised care to those in need. Our focus is not just on being a service provider, but on being a reliable and professional partner for your journey. Our team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated
Support services in GWS
thing that she could not ful l on her own. Thus, Mypower Foundations was born as Kylie employed and carefully selected a few fully trained disability care support workers to work alongside her. Today, MPF has 60 professional care workers providing services to approximately 100 families across the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Nepean and Blacktown areas. Kylie said: “People with a disability often experience limited choices and control, restrictions on personal autonomy or decision-making, leading to a lack of independence. “Mypower Foundations make sure you take the lead on deciding how to spend your days and we focus on active support to meet your goals.” Having expanded services, MPF assists people with
to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with disabilities and the elderly. We understand the importance of dependable support and the di�erence it makes in your daily life. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that your well-being and comfort are always prioritised. We believe in providing care that respects your independence while o�ering the support you need, and when you need it. Our approach combines professional expertise with a personal touch, creating a balanced environment where you can thrive.
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disabilities and their families and carers in the following areas of their daily living: • Participate in community-based activities. • Foster social inclusion and build a supportive community. • Increase independent living skills with daily activities. • Develop a tailored support plan. • Receive ongoing support and monitoring to ensure your support plan meets your evolving needs. “Our team is dedicated to empowering you to live the life you want,” said Kylie. For enquiries, email MPF friendly team on support@ mypowerfoundations.com.au or call (02) 4711 3144.
Join us at Stone Community Care, where your care is our priority. Together, we strive to make every day better, ensuring that you receive the support and respect you deserve. For more details, visit https://stonecommunitycare.com.au/ Stone Community Care is located at 117 Aiken Road, West Pennant Hills NSW 2125.
ST THERESE CARE GROUP
The Blacktown News is proud to be the official media sponsor of the WE SUPPORT series. Read all features exclusively online 24/7 at www.greaterblacktownnews.com.au
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T Therese is a registered NDIS provider located in Blacktown and ready to help with your desired services. We have expertise in Mental Health Care, Community Nursing Care, Domestic Support, Personal Care Support, Assist in transport and appointment, support independent living and respite care. At St Therese, we provide the right care and service with compassion and wholehearted service to the person in need to live a healthy, cared for, comfortable and happy life. Help is close at hand 24/7. Our primary expert care services include:
Mental Health Care Coordination and Support
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Navigate mental health journey with coordinated care, emphatic support. Find hope, healing and growth. We have the expertise and experience to help achieve
a brighter path to your mental well-being.
Tracheostomy Care and Management We provide expert tracheostomy care. Breathe easy with our comprehensive management. Precise techniques, compassionate support. Elevate comfort, minimise risks. Trust us for optimal tracheotomy wellbeing. Your health is our priority.
Enteral Feeding and Management Nourish and thrive. Simplify enteral feeding with our expert management. Seamless solutions, personalised care. Em-
powering health, ensuring comfort. Choose us for superior enteral feeding support and wellness.
Catheter Management Elevate comfort and con dence. Our catheter management o�ers precision and care. Expertise you can trust, dignity you deserve. Experience hassle-free living with our dedicated support. We are St Therese Care Group, and we can care for you. For more information about our services, visit https://www. sttheresecaregroup.com.au/ or contact us on 0450 545 016 or email st.theresecare@gmail.com.
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PROCARE AGED & DISABILITY SERVICES
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ROCARE Aged & Disability Services is a registered NDIS provider empowering and assisting the elderly and people with disabilities in all facets of daily living in the comfort of your home. Experience a commitment to provide you comfort, respect, and unwavering support with your health and dignity at the forefront of our mission. Trust us to prioritise your well-being and journey towards optimal living and streamline your daily living needs with a personal assistant. We provide personalised care in your home, from simple tasks to organising your complex daily activities, we have got you covered. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your well-being, providing attentive and tailored support, making your home the heart of your health. Our Gardening NDIS Ser-
vice reconnect you with the therapeutic wonders of nature, fostering growth and well-being. You can explore, connect, and savour extraordinary experiences, and every destination is within reach when you embark on a journey to life’s possibilities with us. Ease the burdens, embrace shared living and experience
the beauty of community support and togetherness. Together, we support you navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its joys. E�ortlessly embrace daily living and reclaim independence, one step at a time. Our support is designed to make each step purposeful and empowering. Elevate your journey towards independence with us. Empower yourself by learning new skills, reach your goals and potential through continuous growth and achievement. Our expert therapists and psychologists o�er guidance, making us among Sydney’s trusted NDIS choices. You will love the way we care. For more information about our services, visit www.procareservices. com.au or contact us on 1800 710 021 and by email on info@ procareservices.com.au.
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YUVAN CARE PROVIDER
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UVAN Care Provider is a caring service in Western Sydney that understands unique individual, assistance requirements and support so that every client live a comfortable and ful lling life. We are a professional, compassionate, and dedicated team of care providers, o�ering high-quality service and support for the elderly and people with disabilities. Our team is highly trained and are experienced professionals who are passionate about the work they do. We understand each person’s needs are unique and work closely with our clients and their families to develop a care plan that meets their individual needs and choices. Our services are designed to promote independence, dignity, and quality of life, while ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients. We take great pride in the relationships we build with our clients and their families, and we are committed to providing the highest level of care and support possible.
Our values of respect, dignity, and empathy are at the core of everything we do, and we believe that everyone deserves to live their lives to the fullest, regardless of their age or ability. If you are looking for a local care service that you can trust, come in and meet our team at Yuvan Care Provider. Our team is here to supportyou and your loved ones every step of the way, and we look forward to serving you. For more details and to contact Yuvan Care Provider, visit https://www. yuvancareprovider.com.au/ Yuvan Care Provider is located at 13 Enfield street, Jamisontown NSW 2750. To book an appointment call 0426 499 001 or info@yuvancareprovider.com.au.
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247 CARE SERVICES
CLASO AGED CARE DISABILITY SERVICES
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OOKING after the health and welfare of people with varying degrees of disabilities is more than a challenge for every service provider with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). But when a service provider goes beyond and above duty of care to ensure the well-being of a person with disability, it is always an amazing story to tell. Among nalists in the 2023 Central Coast Local Business Awards, 2023 Business NSW Regional business Awards for Outstanding startup Sarah also Being Nominated for Leadership by the international leadership for disability Sta� Recognition Awards 2023 is 247 Care Services nominated for its holistic approach to caring for people with disabilities. “At the heart of our business lies an unwavering commitment to nurturing and uplifting the well-being of people with disabilities living in our community,” said 247 Care Services director Sarah MacRae. “We understand that our success is intricately linked to the well-being of the people in the neighborhoods we call home. Since opening to provide services in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, Ms MacRae’s company strives to foster local economic growth by employing sta� and sourcing supply and materials locally. “Our engagement goes beyond -
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C nancial transactions because we actively address social causes that matter most to our community. “From organizing food drives to partnering with shelters for people facing homelessness, we take concrete actions to tackle pressing challenges in our community.” One of the company’s principles is promoting the health of their environment, ensuring the company is contributing its share in sustainable practices. “From eco-friendly packaging to local clean-up initiatives, we always aim to positively impact our community’s ecological health,” Ms MacRae said. To enquire about the company’s services and enrol in programs, email info@247careservices.com. au or call (02) 4067 5287. For more details about the company, click on https://247careservices. com.au/ and their Facebook page on @24/7 Care Disability Services and Activity Hub.
LARO is a leading provider of aged care & disability services across Australia. Claro takes a person-centred approach to providing disability supports, partnering with individuals and their support networks to design a roster of care that meets your needs, preferences and funding. This means we take the time to get to know you and understand your goals. We aim to match you with a support team who will enable you to achieve those goals, while building a trusted relationship. We partner with NDIS Support Coordinators, Plan Managers, Social Workers and Hospitals to ensure you are able to access the disability supports needed to live a bright future. Our customer experience team works closely with you to co-design innovative service solutions spanning social, economic and community participation, as well as assistance with daily life. Claro has availability of experienced and dedicated support workers in the Paramatta area. We’re here to support you achieve your goals and live the life you choose.
Claro client Laura, with her disability support worker Naraya, who supports Laura both in her home and to get out into the community and participate in activities including dog walking, art classes and picnics. Get in touch with the dedicated Claro team on 1300 303 770 or via intake@claro.com.au.
ABILITY CHOICE CARE
Ability Choice Care is a care provider in the disability service industry in Australia. Ability Choice Care is an NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) approved Care provider. If you have an NDIS approved care plan and allocated funding we can help you as we o er multiple services to cover all your needs.
0410 791 607 | 0404 941 622 info@abilitychoicecare.com.au abilitychoicecare.com.au
Support when you need it most
RSL LifeCare Veteran Services is a charitable organization focused on helping Australian veterans and their families. We support current and serving Australian Defence Force members and their families. We provide free, qualified support to help support your finances, mental health and wellbeing.
Get in touch today
Free services available for you DVA Claims & Advocacy Employment Assistance Wellbeing and Financial Support Homelessness and Housing Veteran Wellbeing Centres Spur Equine Program
Call 02 8088 0388