2011 Brain Injury Network Inc. South Australia Annual Report

Picture Description: Clockwise: 1.

2010 BIAW with Faith Thorley, Jennifer Farnden and Michael Farnden

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The late Suzanne Carmen (Executive Director of the Office of Disability and Client Services (ODACS) presenting Stanley Forrest with his Springboard Graduation Certificate

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Xmas 2010 presentation of festive jars, created by Springboard participants, to Wesley United representatives: with Sharon Corbin, Robert Semmens, Cindy Gillespie, Lin Davis, Karen Haar, Sharron Hampel, Margaret O’Leary and Vicki Zelipski

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2010 Inaugural celebration of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).

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THE BRAIN INJURY NETWORK OF SA INC The Brain Injury Network of SA Inc. (BINSA) is pleased to present the nineteenth Annual Report and audited Financial Statements for the period 1 July 2010 to the 30 June 2011.

The activities of BINSA as recorded in this Report have been undertaken according to:      

the objectives as stated in the Constitution National Disability Standards The Pre qualified Provider Panel requirements BINSA Strategic Plan Funding and Service Agreements Service Excellence Program

We trust the Report will provide a comprehensive overview of BINSA’s role and function, achievements and ongoing vision.

Simon Newman Chair Committee of Management 26 October 2011

Mariann R McNamara Executive Officer 26 October 2011

OFFICE ADDRESS 70 Light Square Adelaide SA 5000 Telephone: (08) 8217 7600 Facsimile: (08) 8211 8164 Email: info@binsa.org Website: www.binsa.org Country Callers: 1300 733 049

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Table of Contents Section Patron, Committee of Management, Staff, Consultants, Volunteers, Sponsors and Donors, Awardees

1

2011 Annual Report Overview

2

Chairperson Report

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Executive Officer’s Report

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Administration

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Programs and Services

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DEPARTMENT OF FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DISABILITY, AGEING AND CARERS  Springboard  Counselling  Community Learning and Lifeskills COMMUNITY BENEFIT SA  Buddy Project

6A (i)

6A (ii)

DEPARTMENT OF FAMILIES and HOUSING, COMMUNITY SERVICES, INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS  Individual Advocacy 6B MOTOR ACCIDENT COMMISSION  Reconnect Transition Program

6C

Annexure ‘A’ Financial Report

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SECTION 1

PATRON MANAGEMENT OF COMMITTEE STAFF CONSULTANTS VOLUNTEERS SPONSORS DONORS AWARDEES

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PATRON Professor Richard Clark Richard Clark is a Co-Director of Brain Health Clinics and has been a practising s psychologist since 1987. His interests cover both the assessment and the treatment of clients with psychological disorder. His experience covers a range of disorders, including AD/HD, autism, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, stress and anxiety, traumatic brain injury and learning and memory disorders.

Richard completed undergraduate education at Uni of Adelaide and a PhD at Flinders Uni. He has had a long standing interest and relationship between brain and mental function and has published well over 100 papers in the field ( see here for more detail). He has a special interest in neurotherapy as a means of treating the psychological effects of brain dysregulation and as an adjunct to more conventional treatments such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) . Richard is a founding member of the Neurofeedback and Psychology interest group of the Australian Psychological Society Ltd. Richard also holds position as a Professor in the School of Psychology at Flinders Uni, and a past Head of School. He is a past President of the Australasian Society of Psychophysiology. His contributions to the understanding of brain and mental function have been recognised by his appointment as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Social Sciences.

BINSA is extremely grateful of Richard’s ongoing support and dedicated professional services towards those with an acquired brain injury (ABI).

COMMITTEE of MANAGEMENT MEMBERS 2010-11

ELECTED EXECUTIVE CHAIRPERSON

Simon Newman

VICE CHAIRPERSON

Pam Kirkham

TREASURER

Geoffrey Pritchard

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Alison Lamshed Christopher Farrand Dean Fyfe Megan Barratt Nadia Moffatt

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STAFF July 2010- June 2011 Executive Officer

Mariann McNamara

Administration Officer

Toni Paxton

Advocate

Terri Finn to 31 Oct 2010 John Harley Consultant Advocate Kath Robinson 2 Nov —10 June

Counsellor

Terri Finn to 21 Dec 2010 Kath Robinson interim from 1 Jan —10 June 2011 Chris Farrand interim from 22 June 2011

Coordinator Community Learning and Lifeskills

April Vanderaa to 30 Sept 2010 Kath Robinson 21 Mar—10 June 2011 Chris Farrand interim from 22 June 2011

Co-ordinator Reconnect Transition Program

Ann Madigan 1 July 2010— 13 March 2011 on leave of absence

Co-ordinator Springboard

Delores Wells interim to 15 Oct 2010 Kellie MacGillivray 18 Oct to 25 Feb 2011 Delores Wells/Vicki Zelipski interim to 30 June 2010

Springboard Program Assistant

Vicki Zelipski

Springboard Program Support Workers (cas)

Steve Wolf Margie O'Leary Catherine Young Cindy Gillespie

Sessional Specialist Re-Wired Program—Therapy Catherine Young from 28 March 2011 Buddy Project

Lauren Moulds from 21 June 2011

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CONSULTANTS BINSA would like to acknowledge and thank the following consultants and specialists’ contractors who have provided their services throughout 2010-2011.

We are very grateful for their expertise, skills and support as they add to BINSA's ability to continue to provide the very best information, programs and services to those impacted by an ABI. Abby Belknap-Steele Angela Gregory Ann Walter Anna Miles Bill Toop Bob Nottage David Fabbro Delores Wells Gail Hislop Hogie John Harley John Skackzowski Judith Abbot Karen Gross Karen Osborne Laurie Bolton Peter Hall Susan Hillier PhD

Artistic support for 2010 BINSA Xmas Party Finance Officer Coordinator Clinical Education Speech Pathology Flinders Uni Physiotherapist General Maintenance - Hire-a-handy-man Webmaster - Data Fix Solicitor - Andersons Solicitors Service Excellence Program (SEP) Workwise Equipment Maintenance Hogies Electrical Services Consultant Advocacy WorkCover SA Advisory Workrisk IT Training Gross Insolvency Workforce Development Cognition HR and Recruitment – Workplace Horizons Auditor – Peter Hall Charted Accountants Physiotherapist

IT Contractors Max Rutz Nick and Brett

Trustworthy Computer Services InterIntra

VOLUNTEERS BINSA is especially grateful to the many volunteers who assist with our programs and services each day.

Your dedication and skills are so valued by everyone here at BINSA. Thank you for making the time and for your ongoing support and care for those who have experienced the impact of an ABI. Administration: Bev Wiles, Keryl Beesley, Sharon Corbin Springboard: Alexis Smith, Anna Rochford, Catherine Young, Coelina Mills, Dani Moss, Damien Lynch, David Bajjali, Debbie Holton, Kaitlin Harkess, Karen Arthur, Lin Davis, Matt Bird, Morneer Ackarie, Nerebel Soubiron, Robert Semmens, Rupert Saunders, Sharon Corbin, Stephanie Mason-Fyfe, Steve Avery, Valmai Mackenzie, Vanessa Zeleny

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Reconnect Transition Program Reconnect Mentors

Reconnect Steering Committee

Adrian Horan Chris Farrand Eli Murn Faith Thorley Luke Rosenzweig Michael Farnden

Adrian Horan Wendy Foster Chris Farrand Donna Lambden

Student Practicum Flinders Uni Student Placement Mark Iciego Nagen Gazmere

Carrick Student Placement Nerebel Suobiron

SPONSORS AND DONORS General Ann Booth Diane Olsen for late John Olsen Di, Ron and Alice Wickett Duane Munzer—Keen Office Supplies Go-Lo Sefton Park Helen Tilley Retail Rep InterIntra JB Hi-Fi Melrose Park Judith Abbot Samantha Fowler Knowledge Management URS West lakes Rotary Club

Justice Technology Services, Justice Portfolio SA Hon Kate Ellis MP (Oz Flag) Kate Gould CEO Adelaide Festival Corp Kelvin Humphries CEO Statewide Group Training Lime2Cafe Margaret Batty Mobile Science Education Norwood Squash Centre Prof Richard Clark St Columba College Wayne and Renata Avery

2010-11 BINSA Fundraising Campaign Linda Shaw—with Linda’s assistance BINSA raised nearly $3000 — thank you heaps Linda

2010 BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS WEEK Sponsors and Donors 5AA, AddValue Promotions, Amanda Blair, Andersons Solicitors, Ayers House Functions , Carol Whitelock ABC 891 Adelaide, City Shelving, ETC East Terrace Continental Cafe, Ewart Shaw Radio Adelaide, Francene Connor & Associates, Helen Wilson Radio Adelaide, Keith Conlon 5AA, Michal Dutkiewicz, Orange Spot Bakery, Pack Mart, Regency Park TAFESA, Rosebud Creative Writing, Sandy Puddy DIRC, Skye Cellars, Tom Menzies Media Consultant, Tony Pilkington 5AA, Tritan Corp, UnitingCare Wesley, URS

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2010 BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS WEEK Award Presenters

Special Volunteers

Susan Hillier UniSA PhD Andrew Daniels MAC Simon Newman Chair BINSA COM

Evelyn O’Daly and Victoria Good Keryl Beesley Sharon Corbin

BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS WEEK 2010 EVENT SUPPORT/PRESENTERS Abby Steele (Sculpture) David Fabbro (Andersons Solicitors) Faith Thorley (Visual Artist) Jennifer Farnden (Guest Speaker) Katrina McLaughlin (UniSA) Linda Shaw (Guest Speaker) Luke Rosenzweig (Guest Speaker) Malcolm Walker (SA Writers Ctr)

Michael Farnden - Wood Craftsman (Guest Speaker) Michael Jacobs (Journalist) Prof Jack Mclean (Uni Adelaide) Prof Mary Lyndon (Uni Adelaide) Prof Richard Clark (BINSA Patron) Prof Robert Vink (Uni Adelaide) Rob De Kok Sue Fleming Sue Heathcote (Uniting Care Wesley)

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Adrian Rodighiero Amanda Tobin Andre Lang Aramis Keros Cheryl Mason Claudia Banks Dianne Di Maria Erin Clark Faith Thorley Indra Jury Jae Goodridge Karen Haar Lee McEgan

SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARDS Meril Cardew Michael Farnden Michael Quigley Mitchell Hodgkinson Peter Caporn Phoebe Rutter Robert Mos Scott Rehutai Sharron Hampel Sue Pryde Toula Michalakis Trevor Gay Vladimir Jurcik

Amanda Birkin (Health SA) Ann Madigan Carol Dee Jennifer Farnden Dr Les Koopowitz NOVITA (ABI Team Dr Peter Muggleton (Dentist) Tracey Hilbig

Reconnect Transition Program Achievement Awards Adrian Horan Alastair MacFarlane Andrew Sparnon Angela Rendell Bev Wiles Brian Miller Chris Farrand Eli Murn Elliott Nayda Faith Thorley Gary Higgins Luke Rosenzweig Maurice Huckins Michael Farnden Reuben Zalups Trevor Goodwin

Winner Student Creative & Feature Writing Kirsten Jenkins 10

SECTION 2

2011 ANNUAL REPORT BINSA OVERVIEW

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2011 Annual Report - Brain Injury Network of SA Inc (BINSA) BINSA Overview BINSA is the Peak organisation in SA representing and advocating on behalf of all SA people who have sustained an acquired brain injury (ABI), their families and relatives, friends and significant others.

It has done this through the provision of:       

support, information, assistance and education public and professional forums promoting awareness of ABI and the needs of people who are impacted by an ABI advisory contribution towards research into the management of ABI and the factors which optimize recovery networking, collaboration and membership with other relevant disability and aligned organisations representation on State, National and International bodies.

BINSA has achieved this by the following governance, service and program initiatives: 

an elected Committee of Management, which includes consumers, family caregiver, community and professional members  skilled staff, volunteers and specialist consultants  representation of ABI and wider consumers needs, concerns and interests to all levels of governments and service providers  representation of ABI issues and policy suggestions to State and National Governments, all elected SA parliamentarians, relevant Federal and State departmental agencies, allied professional stakeholders and related community organisations  taking a leadership position in key policy development and responded to relevant government proposals and policy papers, liaising and working cooperatively with other disability organisations on issues of mutual concern  responding to requests to support families with relatives in the acute care hospitals, rehabilitation, long-term care settings and the family home  offering programs and services including:  Springboard Program (SP) covering: Therapy and Learning and Lifeskills (L&L) and Re-Wired Program (R-WP): an integrated education and therapy slow rehabilitation program for adults with severe cognitive and physical disability as a result of ABI  Advocacy Program (AP) through: Individual Advocacy; Self Advocacy; Legal Advocacy and Systemic Advocacy under the National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP)  Counselling Service (CS): to those impacted by an ABI  Community Learning and LifeSkills (CL&L) support through: coffee clubs and interesting forums  Reconnect Transition Program (RTP): reconnecting and supporting individuals who have suffered an ABI through a range of road trauma accidents  Buddy Project (BP): connecting isolated single adults with trained volunteer buddies  Service Excellence Program (SEP): a formal audited process of all our Standard 12

Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Policies to achieve SEP Certification  

offering Student Practicum across a range of programs communicating through our website, quarterly newsletters and regular emails and posted communiques  hosting 2010 Brain Injury Awareness Week (BIAW)  conducting the annual ABI regional advocacy residential forum at Mt Gambier  conducting numerous Open Forum Series seminars, information sessions and workshops to our wide constituent base  providing opportunities for members to be informed and involved in providing feedback about changes to Government policy and service delivery  representing SA ABI interests in the national arena as a Member Director of Brain Injury Australia (BIA).

BINSA Funding In 2010-11 BINSA operated on funding provided through: 

Office of Disability and Client Services (ODACS) (now Disability, Ageing and Carers [DAC]), SA Department for Families and Communities (DFC) for: Springboard Program covering Therapy and Learning and Lifeskills; Community Learning and LifeSkills covering Counselling Services; and, Peak Body functions  Community Benefit SA , Department for Families and Communities (DFC) for: Buddy Project  Commonwealth Department of Families, and Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FAHCSIA) for: Advocacy Program under the National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP)  The Motor Accident Commission (MAC) for: Reconnect Transition Program (RTP)  Subscriptions, fundraisers and donations from the BINSA memberships and sponsors support various BINSA’s operational and service provision.

BINSA is completely dependent on ongoing funding and generous donations and would like to express its deepest appreciation for the financial support from all these sources.

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SECTION 3

2011 CHAIRPERSON REPORT

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Chairperson Report The 2010-2011 year has been a challenging one for BINSA as it has for all of us who have had to come to grips with a global financial crisis.

Community organisations such as BINSA have to justify every cent received from the public sector ensuring that high levels of service are provided and that the programs offered by BINSA meet community expectations of excellence.

There is no doubt that the programs that BINSA provide are absolutely essential and, are well received in the community and BINSA is extremely confident that our funding bodies are committed to a long relationship with BINSA. In fact our relationships with the funding bodies have probably never been stronger.

The job at hand now for BINSA is to ensure that the programs offered to the community continue to reflect community needs and achieve unparalleled excellence.

To achieve excellence BINSA is dependent on strong leadership and committed staff, volunteers and members. Under the guidance of the Executive Officer Mariann McNamara, BINSA is building a very strong team of people to serve the community and in particular members of the public with an acquired brain injury (ABI).

Whilst Mariann and the Committee of Management are working towards sharing a stable and healthy work environment it is inevitable that there will be staff changes.

For those members of staff who have contributed to BINSA over the 2010-2011 year, we are extremely grateful for your commitment and services to BINSA. PROGRAMS AND SERVICES - STAFF NEWS Springboard, Community Learning and Life Skills This year has been a challenge for Springboard. Kellie McGillivray was appointed as Springboard Coordinator. Unfortunately Kellie was unable to continue in this position in the 2011 year.

While we set about recruiting for the Springboard Coordinator position Vicki Zelipski has taken extra responsibilities other than in her role as a Springboard Program Assistant and is also supported by other staff members, as well as the never-to-be-allowed-to-retire Delores Wells.

Vicki has done an excellent job in this role.

Springboard Program Support Workers are employed casually and we welcomed a number of new faces during 2010-11 including Catherine Young, Cindy Gillespie and Margie O’Leary. Steve Wolf completed his term with BINSA on 31 December 2010.

Advocacy In the 2010-2011 year we were very fortunate to have Kathy Robinson assume the position as Advocate.

She made an immediate impact and was instrumental in working with the Executive Officer in improving relations in regional areas. Unfortunately, Kathy resigned to take up an expanded family counseling opportunity with Anglicare and she will be missed.

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We continued to retain the consultancy assistance of John Harley who has been a tremendous support to our organisation and brought exceptional expertise on diverse and especially legal advocacy issues, for which we are very grateful.

Reconnect Transition Program (RTP) As everyone is aware, this has been a very successful program funded by the Motor Accident Commission who continues to be delighted with the outcomes.

Unfortunately, Anne Madigan, who has been instrumental in managing this program, has been unwell and has had to step down from her Coordinator position. We wish her all the best with her recovery and hope to have her back on board when her health has improved.

BINSA is busy with recruiting to backfill while Ann is on long leave of absence.

Administration Tony Paxton continued to steer our front of office reception and administration functions, covering a range of duties in a way that has meant that anyone coming to BINSA always feels welcomed and is assured of the best possible service and support by all the BINSA team. BINSA administration is complex with both the consumer and the back office issues to deal with initially before referring on to various staff and our specialist consultants who assist us across our administration. From dealing with records and reports, IT, ‘bad tempered’ photocopiers’ petty cash and so much more, Toni is adept at all. Thanks Toni for another good year.

Counselling Terri Finn has been the BINSA Counsellor since mid-2007. Due to a new full-time position that she has taken up at Adelaide Uni, she has had to resign from this position and left BINSA at the end of 2010.

Terri will be greatly missed and we know she will make a huge impact in her new position. Thank you Terri for all of your help.

Kathy Robinson assisted with filling in while we sought to recruit Terri’s replacement – a hard act indeed and when Kathy resigned as the advocate early in 2011 she moved a cross into the Counselling role but due to her new job at Anglicare and personal reason decided to resign from BINSA in June 2011.

Chris Farrand, a member of our Committee of Management (COM) who has relevant qualifications, stepped into the Counselling role on an interim in basis, again until we have had a chance to fill the position permanently. BINSA welcomes Chris into this new role and depending on the final outcome we look forward to Chris' continued involvement across our organisation.

Buddy Project BINSA was very pleased to be successful in gaining a small grant from Community Benefit SA, to establish the first BINSA Buddy Project aimed at bringing together isolated single people who have an ABI with volunteer ‘buddies’. This is one of those situations where with a small amount of appropriate support a real difference is made to individuals lives and helps with genuine community building capacity, improving awareness and understanding of the what are sometimes such unanticipated but isolating impacts of having an ABI.

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We recruited Lauren Moulds to the position of Buddy Project Officer and Lauren commenced at the end of June 2011. We have high hopes for very successful outcomes.

Committee of Management (COM) The Committee of Management (COM) has remained very stable during the 2010-2011 year with the only resignation being that of the former Chairperson, Karl Mortimer. Karl has been a wonderful ‘supporter’ and ‘advocate’ to BINSA and has advised that he is more than happy to help should the need arise.

In Karl’s stead, Dean Fyfe joined the COM. Dean is well known to the BINSA organisation and the contributions that he has made since joining the Committee have been greatly appreciated.

We look forward to Dean working on the Committee for a considerable period of time.

Service Excellence Program (SEP) BINSA has achieved Service Excellence Program certification under the wonderful guidance of Delores Wells. The organisation is very proud to have achieved this and we thank Delores for all her hard work in enabling this to be realised.

2010 Brain Injury Awareness Week (BIAW) August 2010 saw BINSA take on the role of managing Brain Injury Awareness Week.

The majority of the events were held on the BINSA premises and it was a resounding success.

The BINSA team worked tirelessly to ensure that attendees were able to participate in interesting and exciting activities as well as hearing expert presentations from leaders in their fields in areas such as road safety and injury prevention.

The week was rounded out with the ‘awards’ ceremony with presenters such as Andrew Daniels, Chief Executive Officer of the Motor Accident Commission (MAC) who also confirmed the Motor Accident Commission's continued support of the Reconnect Transition Program (RTP).

The whole week ran like clockwork thanks to the tireless efforts of Mariann and her BINSA staff and we expect the 2011 Brain Injury Awareness Week to be held in much the same vein.

Ann Madigan and Megan Barratt taking registrations at 2010 BIAW

2010 BIAW Awards Ceremony—Andrew Daniels CEO MAC, Simon Newman and Mariann McNamara 17

… and finally Once again on behalf of the Committee of Management I would like to thank Mariann and all the staff at BINSA for their wonderful work during this year.

Also we must acknowledge the fantastic volunteers who are involved in all of our programs and we welcome their dedicated support.

Our sponsors have continued despite tough economic times and we look forward to their support in the future. Thank you all for your contributions.

Finally we would like to thank all of the BINSA community for their support of BINSA and we look forward to this continuing in the 2011-2012 year.

Simon Newman Chairperson - Committee of Management Linda Shaw — BINSA fundraising ‘ace’ for 2010-11 triumphing over her ABI disAbility to walk the Inca Trail in October 2010

Michael and Jennifer Farnden inspiring ABI ‘voices’ for 2010 BIAW

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SECTION 4

2011 EXECUTIVE OFFICER REPORT

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Executive Officer Report Settled in …

It is my sincere pleasure to present my second BINSA Annual Executive Officer Report.

These past 12 months have been extremely challenging as well as the most rewarding and like all the ‘team’, I am inspired each day in what we achieve here at BINSA. While we have had many staffing changes as outlined in the Chairperson’s report, the exceptional dedication and commitment made by staff, volunteers, Committee of Management members and friends, have made sure that BINSA has not even paused a moment in delivering our everyday activities: a true testament of why we are here – to make sure that our ABI constituency can rely on BINSA to be there to represent their interests in every corner of SA and beyond.

2010-11 Internal Priorities Staffing structures The major issue confronting BINSA was to resolve the longer term staffing structures, fitting our available funding, as well as ensuring we met our service agreements and performance requirements. This was well underway when we had a ‘stumble’.

Recruitment is not an easy process and regrettably some of the appointments just haven’t worked out for a variety of reasons. BINSA has spent considerable time reflecting upon the matters we faced in having received a difficult Work Cover claim. This in turn led us to improve a range of internal personnel practices, security and selection arrangements. BINSA stands by its responsibilities to all staff under the relevant OHS&W Act and Regulation requirements without rancour. But regardless of this, sometimes the staffing fit simply doesn’t work out and we have to accept that, learn from any unintended mistakes we've made, to inform and improve our decision making and personal behaviours in the future.

I am very appreciative of the unswerving support and guidance of the Committee of Management, but the ‘buck’ always stops in the Executive Officer’s office - and that is appropriate.

It is now encouraging to be able to report that nearly all BINSA’s recent vacancies have now been filled.

See Chair’s report for all the details.

Key funding stakeholders 2010-11 was a settling time for BINSA and our funding partners and we continued to reforge very collaborative and close working relationships and have now achieved triennial funding, 2010-11 to 2012-13, from the Disability, Ageing and Carers (DAC), additional funding from Families and Housing, Community Services, Indigenous Affairs (FAHCSIA) for our Advocacy Program, successfully negotiated funding from Motor Accident Commission (MAC) for an expanded Reconnect Transition Program until 2012-13 and achieved a small grant from Community Benefit SA to conduct the first ever BINSA ABI Buddy Project.

These are very good outcomes and provides BINSA with a level of operational certainty for the next few years.

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IT et al As reported under Administration, we have continued our upgrading of IT infrastructure and operational capacity allowing us to roll out ongoing technological solutions to improve communications, internally and externally with members and operational options for staff, including future opportunities to develop improved client recording and HR support.

These elements of our work are always 'a work in progress' and we look forward to incremental benefits for the longer term, especially with the option now being considered for the MIS and also a new website to come in early 2012. Plus a new photocopier is on the way!

Transition to Fair Work Act 2009 BINSA like all Australian employers was required to prepare relevant HR groundwork and employment arrangements for transitioning all staff to the new Fair Work Act 2009 from 2010. BINSA has complied with all requirements, although the transition to the new Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Award (SCDS) is not finalised due to the continuing national community services ‘equity’ wage dispute which is now expected to be settled and for new salary rates to apply, from 1 July 2012.

It is anticipated that all non-government and N-F-P community and disability organisations will need to be fully supplemented by their funders to enable them to sustain current employee levels. So this is an issue facing BINSA as well. Nationally ACOSS and in SA SACOSS, are involved in negotiating for the sector, of which BINSA, as member organisation, is a strong advocate and supporter.

All staff now has new employment contracts as above.

Service Excellence Program (SEP) Delores Wells oversaw a complete review of our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), necessary from time to time so we retain Certification, under the auspices of the SEP. SEP is a national operating service standards measurement and is very highly sought. It confers recognition that those who have attained the status are organisations that operate under the most stringent processes and governance principles. BINSA is really thrilled with its SEP Certification status and sincerely thank Delores for her exceptionally dedicated and focused work in achieving this outcome for BINSA. Bravo Delores.

BINSA Strategic and external focus Peak organisation In SA, BINSA is recognised as the peak body representing those impacted by an ABI. While we may only ‘formally’ receive a small amount of funding from DAC towards this status, our capacity to influence where it matters is what we strive to achieve every day. During 2010-11 BINSA stepped up its profile in both advocating and involving itself in many leading national and state based systemic campaigns, policy and program debates, thereby influencing improved outcomes for those with an ABI in some really important areas of disability servicing. The Advocacy report goes into fuller details so please have a look in that section.

Strategic and Operational Planning

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BINSA had engaged the services of Monica Redden Consultancy to facilitate the development of our 2010-14 Strategic and Operational Planning, taking into account the needs of our members, the environmental and funding factors that impact on an organisation such as BINSA. Through wide internal and external consultations, Monica drew it together setting out our operational directions, resources and services for the next 2-4 years.

See Annexure A for the summary Strategic Plan and Operational Priorities that we will be attempting to focus on between now and 2014, thus continuing BINSA’s relevance in the coming years.

Governance and Membership As a member organisation, it had been concerning that over the past few years there was a decline in the level of financial membership and we sought to investigate ways of improving and encouraging expanded membership across all the categories so BINSA is constantly reflecting member’s interests and concerns. It is therefore encouraging to report that we have considerably improved our low base of financial membership and we will continue seeking to gain more members and friends as possible.

To that end we are also reviewing our current Constitution and other governance arrangements. We need that to remain a vibrant and contemporary organisation, able to attract elected members who have the skills and expertise and interest to lead BINSA for the future.

We gained the voluntary services of Karen Gross (who then became unexpectedly unavailable for a few months) to assist us: we will be much more vocal in the early part of 2012, wanting to hear from all financial members and any friends, who would like to participate in the ongoing review.

This is a very high priority area for BINSA so look out for mail drops, emails and reminders!

Funding and Sponsorship Funding and Sponsorship is also very high on BINSA’s agenda, as we seek to secure our longer term future. As indicated above we are very fortunate to have such good current service and funding agreements, which allow for our very substantial programs and services.

However, it is a very competitive funding market across all government sectors and the corporate domain. BINSA continued its aim to further develop its fund raising capacity to gain the benefits available more broadly to the not-for-profit sectors.

To that end, we will be introducing a series of annual Patron events, thanks to the generous support of our Patron, Professor Richard Clark: these may constitute educative fora as well as the more traditional dinners and similar events. More on that in early 2012.

BINSA was given an extra boost by being selected by UniSA entrepreneurial undergraduate and graduate students, as the charity organisation chosen by the students for their fund raising business model assignment. We now have a large number of potential fund raising business models to consider into the future. Thanks to everyone concerned at UniSA, in particular Peter Balan who negotiated to include BINSA as the organisation to benefit from these exercises. Really enjoyable process and we hope of great monetary benefit to us in future years.

Ultimately our success in raising philanthropic funds will be due to being able to demonstrate we offer relevant services and that we are relevant to the funding agencies and philanthropic interests too.

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     

Community Learning and Lifeskills Peak Body Reconnect Transition Program SEP Buddy project Brain Injury Awareness Week

See the separate reports for more specific details, but it is very satisfactory to be able to advise that we have met all our service funding agreement performance targets and that is a testament to each and every one who works, volunteers, mentors and sponsors BINSA in our everyday activities.

Events and celebrations BINSA hosted several events and celebrations over 2010-11 including just a few:   

2010 BIAW in August 2010 BINSA inaugural International Day of People with a Disability in December 2010 National Volunteers Day in May 2011

Complaints and Compliments BINSA welcomes comments, compliments and complaints, which enable us to continually improve the quality of our service. Thanks to all who write or contact us with feedback and advice we really do want to know what we are both doing right and wrong.

Complaints and Compliments One complaint was made in 2010-11. The matter was thoroughly investigated both internally and independently and appropriate action was taken.

Compliments—Too numerous to count!

Occupational Health Safety and Welfare: There was one Work Cover claim in 2010-11 Report Summary I would like to acknowledge the tremendous support and guidance received from the Committee of Management, especially the executive and in particular our Chair, Simon Newman. Thank you to all staff and volunteers: you have ensured a very successful 2010-11. BINSA offers so many possibilities and by reflecting on why we count makes each day spent here a very satisfying place to be. The flying pig continues to be the guiding motto in my life – it does!

Mariann R McNamara Executive Officer 2011

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SECTION 5

2011 ADMINISTRATION REPORT

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Administration BINSA Administration forms an integral part of the executive management, and together with the Executive Officer and the Committee of Management (COM) ensures that BINSA’s first point of contact response to all members, clients and friends is professionally managed, including at times some very challenging phone calls or visitor requests. Administration is the principal resource for all BINSA staff and COM members.

Administration Outline Administration is responsible for maintaining all BINSA’s records, annual reporting requirements, information materials, IT, communication, technology and electronic equipment and minor systems support, BINSA program and service bookings, event management and consumerables, volunteer support, manuals, staff induction processes, yearly calendar of events and activities, policies and procedures manuals, Committee of Management induction, meeting papers and meeting arrangements, member data base, receipting of cash and petty cash, staff attendance books, staff messages, car bookings, production of various flyers and mailing activities.

Administration also plays a key role in managing staff meetings, staff training planning calendar, recording OH & SW issues, complaints and compliments.

Administration Highlights Premises The inadequate administration and reception area was improved during 2010-11 with rearrangement of desk and improved access. Further work will be undertaken in 2011-12, continuing this resetting of our administration area so it is as well fitted out as the other office amenities.

IT, data information and file management and PC upgrade BINSA continued its upgrading of both additional PCs, laptops and exchange server functions, but also engaged more professional level IT support, by contracting with InterIntra, further safeguarding our IT operations to comply with COM and major stakeholder application processes. Essentially BINSA uses Microsoft as its foundation application software, meaning all staff has access to easy to use and more consistent application processes. We’ve also ensured that all software is license secured and we only access what is needed so limiting the overload of our IT capacity. Archiving, streamlining of filing, and improved folder management on the main server was also implemented.

Next step is to implement the introduction of a BINSA customised management information system (MIS) – in the early part of 2012, so we can improve our operating costing analysis, client registration processes and client profiling and related activity. We are fortunate that our Queensland peer agency Synapse is developing a share point client record system and information system which may suit BINSA requirements, while we also investigate a MIS developed by key stakeholder Leveda at a very competitive commercial price.

Website developments BINSA is currently assisted by a volunteer webmaster, Bob Nottage, who has been looking after our

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website for some time. Together with Bob, we continued reviewing the BINSA website and the planning of an upgrade will now take place in early 2012.

Administration Volunteer Support Currently 2 regular volunteers help out in Administration with one volunteer having some basic IT training. Sharon Corbin in reception 2 days per week and Keryl Beesley coming in to do general admin support have been of immense assistance and BINSA administration would not be able to function without their dedicated help and support.

BINSA has an immense indebtedness to the many volunteers who assist across all our programs and services. During 2010-11 more than 80 volunteers assisted BINSA by dedicating more than 8000 hours of assistance. A Volunteers ‘honour’ board is now installed formally acknowledging 10+ years of volunteer services. Special 10+ year’s volunteer service badges have also been made for this special BINSA ‘team’.

Future Administration Options BINSA continued its cost containment review and we became a member of the Charities Communities Institution, which is a Charities and NFP group buying organisation, providing for very cost effective purchasing opportunity of our various requirements.

We have made great use of this during 2010-11 but will do further reviews as several large retail establishments are becoming competitive with the type of requirements we regularly purchase. This will further assist us improve our consumerables purchasing plans.

Additional Administration Support Administration staffing is to be supplemented in 2011-12 with the engagement of an Executive Assistant to provide support to COM meetings and the EO and subject to budget review, an allocation of 30 hours per week is being considered for the administration role.

Administration Summary BINSA Administration has been very challenging and stretched during 2010-11 with staffing changes, the continued roll out of improved IT operating processes and introduction of new programs and services.

I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to all the BINSA team, the Committee of Management and Mariann for assistance across all the administration functions from time to time. One day she will get to sort out her own desk!

BINSA administration is a very rewarding vocation and every day members, clients, staff and others rely on our systems, records, processes and so on being up to date and relevant. I would also like to say thanks to the 2 fantastic volunteers who help make many days during the reporting period and making it possible for me to do my job.

Toni Paxton Administration Officer

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A Toni photo montage ‌ thanks for the memories

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SECTION 6

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

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SECTION 6A(i)

DEPARTMENT OF FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DISABILITY, AGEING AND CARERS   

SPRINGBOARD COUNSELLING COMMUNITY LEARNING AND LIFESKILLS

COMMUNITY BENEFIT SA 

BUDDY PROJECT

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Springboard Program SPRINGBOARD – OVERVIEW The Springboard Program (SP) is funded by SA Department of Families and Communities (DFC) and is a 3 year individually tailored community based rehabilitation program. The program incorporates speech, physiotherapy, occupational and cognitive therapy, learning and life skills training.

The program is designed to support individual participants aged between 18 – 65 years of age who have sustained multiple disabilities as a result of an acquired brain injury (ABI).

Individuals attending the Springboard Program are in the main clients who have a Case Manager under Disability Services (DS). Referrals are coordinated by DS in conjunction with the individual’s Case Manager, who together with Springboard staff and specialist consultants follow agreed criteria to assess the suitability of each person joining the program.

Springboard operates in a small group format with a maximum of up to 6 participants in any group. The program runs 5 days a week; 10am – 3pm with the exception of one day being 10am – 1pm to allow for staff training. The group days are as follows: Group 1- Monday and Thursday, Group 2 -Tuesday and Friday, Group 3 - Wednesday SPRINGBOARD OUTLINE Individual programs are designed by professional therapists after assessments and discussions with each participant. The programs are implemented by trained staff, volunteers and students.

SPRINGBOARD PARTICIPANT NUMBERS During the 2010 – 2011 reporting period a total of 21 participants attended the Springboard Program 11 female and 10 male with ages ranging from 27 to 64 years.

SPRINGBOARD STUDENT SUPPORT Springboard welcomes the continued support from Uni SA and Flinders University for their placements of Physiotherapy students and Speech Pathology students. This year we welcomed Carrick Institute of Education to our student support list. The Carrick students are studying the Diploma of Community Services Work. We have had 2 successful student placements from Carrick during this reporting period.

Having students on placement is a win – win situation, as BINSA offers a very educative environment.

The students bring fresh ideas and insights to the program. Students who have completed their placements with BINSA leave with a greater understanding of ABI and its effects on people’s lives.

Some students have returned to BINSA to volunteer in the Springboard Program.

FUTURE SPRINGBOARD FUNDING AND PROGRAM OPTIONS As stated in the last annual report, DAC funding has been approved to 2012 – 2013 for Springboard. As an extension of Springboard, an afternoon activity circuit has been established, welcoming back some previous ‘Springboard’ graduates. As well, a trial program named Re-wired Program – Therapy was conducted with one client for two 10 week blocks. This client showed physical and cognitive 30

improvement. Re-Wired Program is now being reviewed to be re-designed to a small group format.

SPRINGBOARD GRADUATIONS Early in 2011 2 participants graduated and another 2 will graduate at the end of 2011. Due to personal reasons 2 participants took a leave of absence from the program. They will be reassessed if they wish to re-join the program. 1 participant on probation felt the program was not right for her and decided not to continue. 2 new participants have moved from the probation period to the formal rehabilitation program.

SPRINGBOARD VOLUNTEERS During the reporting period, a total of 28 volunteers were involved in the Springboard program, and there are currently 23 active volunteers.

7 attended for the full 12 months while 6 volunteers moved on to pursue other interests, and 2 volunteers were Carrick students on placement. A further 2 volunteers were Uni SA students on placement, and in addition, 3 volunteers were recruited as casual BINSA staff.

We sincerely thank our volunteers for their valuable time and willingness to support the participants.

Without their assistance, participants would not have the very important one on one support needed to reach their goals in their individual programs.

THERAPISTS We are fortunate to have the continued support of Dr Susan Hillier (Physiotherapist) and Anne Walter (Speech Pathologist) along with the Flinders University Speech Pathology Students, who develop the individual programs for the participants. The Monday afternoon group physio ‘activity circuit’ program delivered by Anna Milles and her students is highly appreciated and enjoyed by those who attend.

LEARNING and LIFESKILLS Some of the Learning and Lifeskills activities associated with Springboard are: • • • • • • • • 

Virtual tour of Light Square – Presented by Student Nagen Gazmere Visit from the SA Fire Department Australia Day lunch – Presented by the Australia Day Council Modified Basketball - Introduced by Student Nagen Gazmere Balloon Volleyball Decorating Christmas jars – donated to UnitingCare Wesley 2010 Brain Injury Awareness Week activities Healthy Living Presentation – Presented by Catherine Young North Terrace environs walking tour

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SUMMARY During this reporting period, my role at BINSA was as the Springboard Program Assistant. I had the great pleasure of working with Delores Wells, Interim Springboard Coordinator. We developed a wonderful cooperative relationship. Delores became my mentor and passed on her valuable experience and taught me about the management side of the program. It was with Delores’s guidance and expertise that the Review meetings were brought back into the program and have proven very successful and worthwhile as a mechanism to communicate with all concerned. I was able to assist Delores in selecting new participants and volunteers as well as the evaluation of students on placement.

My time with BINSA has given me great opportunities to develop my skills and given me a clear career path to follow. I would like to thank Delores Wells, Mariann McNamara, BINSA staff and the Committee of Management for their support.

Thank you Vicki Zelipski A/ Coordinator Springboard

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Counselling BINSA is funded by Department of Families and Communities (DFC) through Disability, Ageing and Carers (DAC) to conduct Counselling and it forms an element of the Community Learning and Lifeskills (C L & L) Program. Counselling support is provided 1 day a week and welcomes contact from people with an ABI or their families or significant others who need advice and support.

Counselling Background BINSA provides Counselling support to assist with the multitude of impacts that can accompany ABI. The diversity, obscurity and enduring nature of these impacts makes ABI counselling a very important and challenging area, one often not well understood by the general public and pre-existing family and friends.

The often ‘hidden’ cognitive effects and the very complex combinations which manifest with significant impacts on the psychological, emotional, social, vocational and general worldview for the individual indicate that acquired brain injury (ABI) is one of the most challenging areas of disability. In many instances psychiatric conditions emerge which present a further major hurdle for the individual, carers, families and significant others. In addition this hidden disability is not well understood by the community or the service system and very often by those affected.

Counselling Issues/Hot Topics Key aspects of the BINSA counselling support has continued to focus on acceptance of current circumstances and working toward using alternate avenues to bring about self-wellbeing and improved relationships’ with others and the wider community. One big issue that is being reported by Counselling and all the program areas: lack of appropriate respite for people with ABI and the resulting carer stress and family breakdown. Counselling, in concordance with Advocacy, have helped people with many varied problems including associated with the following: Dept of Correctional Services, Housing SA, Disability SA, Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre, and a number of GPs. Counselling Clients Counselling is one of BINSA smallest program services, so is always in high demand.

Clients are seen on a booking request basis, this is often a challenging juggle, but BINSA aims to limit the time taken to see those enquiring about getting advice. Clients are from across the demographic spectrum and ABI sector.

Future Counselling Options BINSA will be looking closely at how it can address more broadly the needs of family and significant individuals supporting those with an ABI, as well as influencing changes and improvements to how disability and allied local services are better targeted towards this area of great need.

Counselling Summary Providing Counselling is one way that BINSA is able to provide a meaningful and immediate response to individual’s impacted by ABI. Once the brain is injured the resulting impact on an individual’s capacity to function both cognitively and physically may lead to a complexity of disabilities often resulting in very challenging behaviours for the individual and the people around them. These are challenges that the BINSA Counsellors aspire to deal with in the best and most effective way possible.

Counselling in the ABI sector is an area that is critically under-resourced across SA and we look forward 33

to assisting BINSA influence how improvements to this situation can be achieved in the future.

A sincere thanks to Toni Paxton for her ongoing assistance in taking the many calls, some quite difficult, and managing the bookings so clients are seen as soon as possible.

Thanks too to the rest of the BINSA team for their support and the Committee of Management and Executive Officer for continuing their quest to improve the support and services for those impacted by an ABI. This report acknowledges the significant contribution of previous colleagues and peers, Terri Finn and Kath Robinson who filled the Counsellor role almost throughout 2010-2011.

Chris Farrand Interim Counsellor

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Community Learning and Lifeskills (CL&L) BINSA is funded by Department of Families and Communities (DFC) through Disability, Ageing and Carers (DAC) to conduct the Community Learning and Lifeskills (C L & L) Program.

Many people find that their lives are radically different after an acquired brain injury (ABI).

Often, the interaction between daily demands and the ABI related emotional and psychological effects can have the most impact after the acute phase and formal rehabilitation is complete.

Understanding what has happened and learning new strategies to make the most of living with acquired brain injury (ABI) may be very important steps for an individual.

The C L & L Program is designed to assist people to do this in a supportive environment.

C L & L Background C L & L is a different type of rehabilitation and provides education and information to people with ABI and their families and significant others.

C L & L aims to support individuals with an ABI to develop skills, potential and increased choices through a comprehensive range of workshops, seminars and courses.

C L & L Outline During 2010-11 C L & L activities were facilitated by Terri Finn and Kath Robinson. C L & L is offered through seminars, short courses and workshops in both the city and regional areas and covers diverse topics eg: • Brain injury and its effects • Changes after brain injury • Managing behaviours • Assuming control • Dealing with emotional issues e.g.: liability, anger, loss and grief and activities include • 2 Coffee Clubs – North metro and City • Regional outreach and forums • Brain Injury Awareness Week (BIAW) C L & L Participation Some of the C L & L activities are only suited for those with an actual ABI and that is especially so with the Coffee Clubs. BINSA does not encourage partners or friends to attend – as the emphasis of the CL&L is on people with an ABI getting together and benefitting from being able to share specific issues and have information and advice provided that is especially tailored to someone with an ABI.

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2 monthly Coffee Clubs have been held during 2010-11. The groups are between 4-6 participants each session and BINSA does a regular mail out to an established participant list and to others who may be interested in coming along.

BINSA, through consultation with current and prospective participants, is looking at extending the existing structure of the coffee clubs to include flexible topics, presenters and potential alternate venues.

Northern Group The Northern Group met at 10am-12 noon, at the Jack Young Centre, Conference Room, Park Tce Salisbury.

A small group attended throughout the year and participants directed the content and the focus of the sessions ensuring they were relevant to their specific issues and needs allowing them to continue to gain confidence and improved capacity to manage within their local communities.

City Group The City Group met at the Adelaide Town Hall Café 10am-12noon and as for the Northern Group, was focused on providing support and information that was relevant to the small group attending.

A move to the Botanic Gardens was one suggestion that could be used for relaxation sessions for anyone interested, or other outdoor related activities.

C L & L Workshops, Seminars and forums During 2010-11 C L & L activities included • several Open Forums Series sessions covering a range of topical issues.

Future C L & L Options C L & L continued to provide a diversity of support and an alternative to the standard therapy based rehabilitation programs and services. Essentially C L & L, while very structured and facilitated by skilled and professional staff, is a participant driven program, which is its strength.

BINSA is aiming to extend the Coffee Clubs and is exploring options to host additional ‘clubs’ in the eastern and the western metro areas, along with a carers support group and possible coffee club in Mt. Gambier.

Under the C L & L banner, BINSA is also interested in establishing a BINSA Alumni of past participants and clients, so connections are retained and BINSA is able to provide more informed systemic support and influence, through an improved client profiling process, the public services and programs being offered to those with an ABI.

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C L & L Summary C L & L continues its important contribution to support and capacity building of those with an ABI and their families and significant others.

In 2010-11 due to the changeover of BINSA staffing there have been some disruptions to the program activities, but all that have attended the various functions and workshops and the coffee clubs are testament to the need to continue the C L & L as an alternative to more ‘regulated’ support activity.

C L & L is one program that offers a safe and trusting as well as highly respectful approach to all who participate.

Both Terri Finn and Kath Robinson provided a sincere investment and great professional services to the C L & L programs and we plan to uphold and improve on their good work here at BINSA. My sincere thanks to Toni Paxton, Keryl Beesley, Karen Arthur and all the team at BINSA for their continued assistance in ensuring that regular flyers and mail outs appeared and for supporting the team.

The BINSA Committee of Management and Executive Officer deserve merit for their continued interest, involvement and allowing the flexibility for C L & L to continue meeting the staff and consumer needs as they arose.

Chris Farrand Interim Coordinator C L & L Program

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SECTION 6A (ii)

COMMUNITY BENEFIT SA 

Buddy Project

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Buddy Project BINSA was funded by Community Benefit SA, Department of Families and Communities (DFC) to conduct an individualised state wide buddy program for single adults with an acquired brain injury (ABI).

This is the first time BINSA has been able to provide this type of support program for such a vulnerable group of ABI consumers. No other service of this kind exists in SA but there are established national models and also international models which signify the absolute need for this type of community based support.

Buddy Project Overview The project started in June, 2011. The project’s aims to provide a buddy service for ABI individuals with limited social/community/professional isolation due to difficulties with normal day to day activities including memory loss, enjoyment of hobbies and limited social interaction.

It aims to match up to 9 ABI individuals with up to 3 volunteers, helping them to develop community capacity and engage with social and community activities. In turn, empowering the ABI individual and helping ward off isolation.

Buddy Project Background ABI Individuals often experience problems maintaining previous relationships or developing new ones and as a result have significantly fewer supports and networks. The Buddy Project, provides a way to medium to share information, increase confidence and empowerment and reduce stigma thus paving the way to encourage ABIs to be involved in their communities.

Buddy Project Outline As the project is just commencing its aim is to quickly establish a Steering Committee, development of flyers, process models, referral systems and a framework to screen and select ABI individual’s and volunteers.

From training and matching tasks will follow well-developed rationale and implementation to be aided by individual interviews and meetings with all individuals involved in the project.

The focus will be on consultation and utilisation of as many possible services and potentially interested parties. The project will have a strong client focus and continual evaluation, reassessment and individual adaptions.

Future Buddy Project options BINSA will be monitoring closely how the matching and buddy activities progress long term providing an evidentiary model for future consideration of areas of potential redevelopment; this will include a formal evaluation and a less formal feedback evaluation of training, matching and the project itself.

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Buddy Project Summary The Buddy Project started in 2011 to provide a unique social and community support service for ABI individuals who lacked social/community/professional networks and who faced isolation.

While still in early stages of implementation, the project has received a very positive response and outcomes from invested parties, volunteers and ABI individuals.

However, continual learning, readjustment and flexibility will be required moving forward in these early stages and to ensure the long term success of the project.

Even in this short period it has been a genuinely rewarding experience for me, and one that has provided me with opportunities to not only use my skills, but to learn from others and develop an undoubtable respect for ABI and those who work with them.

My role as Buddy Project officer wouldn’t have been as enjoyable and aspiring without my wonderful steering committee, Mariann McNamara and all the brilliant team at BINSA for their continual support, advice and contribution to the project.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge all the volunteers and ABI individuals to date who have expressed such an early interest in the project, inspiring my commitment to the project and looking forward to the next few months when we unroll the whole Buddy Program.

Lauren Moulds Buddy Project Officer

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SECTION 6B

FAMILIES and HOUSING, COMMUNITY SERVICES, INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS (FaHCSIA) 

ADVOCACY

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Advocacy BINSA is funded by Department of Families, and Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FAHCSIA) for the Advocacy function under the National Disability Advocacy Program (NDAP).

This provides for: 

Individual Advocacy

Support is available on request where there has been an abuse of human or civil rights, denial of access to services or supports, education, equipment, employment and/or community services. There were 161 consumer issues that received advocacy support in the period 2010- 2011 and there were 60 people with an ABI that were supported by the Individual advocate role through a whole range of issues. 

Self-Advocacy

BINSA received a host of enquiries in the period 2010-2011 in relation to a wide range of issues and provided support to empower people with an ABI to build on their existing skills in order to represent or self-advocate for their own interests in the community when faced with difficult situations. 

Legal Advocacy

Legal Advocacy supported individuals who faced legal issues or problems. Some were supported at legal appointments; others were referred to BINSA Consultant Legal Advisor, John Harley or external legal companies who specialise in assisting individuals with an ABI. During 2010-2011, 30 people were supported and assisted regarding a host of legal issues such as:       

compensation police and criminal justice matters Power of Attorney matters lack of understanding and/or knowledge regarding the impact of brain injury by legal representatives/court system Insurance companies Superannuation/HR policies and procedures.

Systemic Advocacy:

BINSA participates in working groups, advisory mechanisms, and system reviews to ensure the voice of ABI consumers and family members are heard. There were over 20 systemic issues that BINSA worked on during the period 2010-2011, some of which included the provision of submissions to national debates covering:

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   

National Disability Advocacy Framework National Disability Advocacy Guidelines National Carers Strategy National Disability Insurance Scheme

At a SA level, BINSA represented ABI issues to the SA Strategic Plan consultations and also advocated against the reduction in Rehabilitation services but rather the retention and increase in services in Brain Injury Rehabilitation home care and support.

BINSA is involved in supporting the Medical Cooling Rebate Campaign - seeking a special rebate for those with heat intolerance.

2010 Brain Injury Awareness Week hosted several seminars plus recognitions awards.

BINSA is committed to Improving ABI related regional services in Mount Gambier with the establishment of a SE ABI Network.

BINSA in alliance with SACOSS, HCA SA, Carers SA and COTA are seeking a review of the SA Government’s introduction to charge car parking fees at all city metropolitan public hospitals and a redemption for Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre ABI and carers attendees.

Advocacy Services Roundup Advocacy continues to be one of BINSA busiest and complex services, with many clients being supported regarding a wide range of issues. This has included providing advocacy support to clients through:      

Interviews meeting with lawyers accompanying people to accommodation appointments assisting in the application for CentreLink benefits supporting people at medical specialist appointments referrals to other related service systems

Advocacy support has also extended to helping with writing letters of support, seeking review of Public Trustee involvement and helping people to access individual budgeting strategies.

Each year our funding supports a regional based forum for individuals with an ABI who live in a regional SA and surrounds. Proudly supported through funding by the Australian government Department FAHCSIA, The 2011 Regional Advocacy Forum (RAF) was held at the Presidential Motor Inn Mount Gambier 26 – 27 May and was attended by 9 participants with an ABI and 5 representing partners, carers and family.

It was a great success, with strong local community support, including 2 Mount Gambier High School Media studies students Isobel and Lewis (thanks also to their teacher Heather Katsaparos) who assisted with the making of the new BINSA film (to be launched at the 2011 Brain Injury Awareness Week and later at the Mount Gambier High School) featuring 2 of the Mt Gambier participants, Mark and ‘Woody’.

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The focus of the RAF was to allow our ABI participants to tell their own story on film so it was both an opportunity to be heard and also a personal record of how far they had come since their specific injury had changed their lives forever. Their stories are deeply moving and need to be given the widest audience we can – that is what BINSA is here to do and that is what FAHCSIA supports us to achieve in self advocacy. We believe we have been able to do that very well.

BINSA received extensive media coverage from the local ABC radio in Mount Gambier and a great photo and story spread in the Border Watch – making it a very positive way to highlight the forum and raise awareness of the many issues around brain injury.

The RAF program proved to be very informative and all participants contributed at each session. Our guest presenters were very well received and we thank Dr John Brayley (SA Advocate - Office of the Public Advocate), Phil Martin UnitingCare Wesley, Community Health Services. The Advocacy Forum Program provided information caring for you, nutrition, wellness and exercise, a workshop for people with ABI, and a workshop for carers.

In the evening, participants, Carers, Partners, BINSA Staff, Mt Gambier Professional Stakeholders dined together and listened to the guest Speaker – Tom Menzies, who presented “So who was that on the radio”.

Advocacy Issues During 2010-2011, consumer issues that received advocacy support included discrimination, abuse and neglect. These issues have been supported through advice or information covering:     

Communicating better with family colleagues and service providers Reducing feelings of isolation and promoting connectedness to one’s community Strategies to reduce fears of losing intimate relationships – refer individuals to BINSA counselling service Linking people with an ABI with others going through similar circumstances through the BINSA coffee clubs and Community Learning and Life skills program Helping people problem solve and plan better household/time management strategies promoting independence.

Advocacy Clients During 2010-2011 the BINSA Advocate has assisted 108 individuals across a wide range of difficult and complex advocacy issues. Advocacy has included direct representation, support, education and legal advice.

Regional Advocacy BINSA has now established, with local support, a BINSA SE ABI Network to foster connections, selfadvocacy, improved services and support for individuals from the South East impacted by an ABI. BINSA is supporting the SE ABI network and gaining an insight into the needs of some of the people there and support those needs, one of which is to work collaboratively with relevant local stakeholders for the submission for funding for a new men’s shed in the heart of Mount Gambier near the community gardens, which will ensure wheelchair access and would be more accessible for many people. The current men’s shed is not wheelchair accessible and is also situated outside of the town, making it 44

As an organisation, BINSA will continue to work collaboratively in supporting the network to address any issues that people with an ABI or their families face in the South eastern region of South Australia.

Advocacy Hot Topics Advocacy provides BINSA with many complex issues to work through and the main ones to emerge during 2010-2011 have been related to: • ABI and the criminal Justice system • Legal issues e.g. compensation and lack of understanding of ABI and its impact • Relationship issues – grief and loss.

Our aim is to continue to pursue all levels of advocacy support to address the individual problems being presented as well as influence as far as BINSA can systemic changes through a range of representations, collaborative engagement and through media and events to highlight these issues to a broader audience.

Future Advocacy Options As part of our responsibilities under our funding agreement and in line with other program and service improvements, and consistent feedback from our constituents, BINSA is working on establishing a BINSA Alumni which will seek to retain connection with many clients, members and friends who have used BINSA services and support and who will be interested in being involved in a range of ongoing facilitated support and communication to build improved self-advocacy and to assist with improving social inclusion and raising broader community awareness about ABI. Advocacy Summary 2010-2011 provided an opportunity for BINSA to broaden the Advocacy functions. BINSA has continued to build connections and relationships with people with an ABI and their families in regional areas with the formation of the South Eastern ABI network in Mount Gambier this year. BINSA was able to meet the expanded performance requirements under the program. People with an ABI will have continuing access to advocacy services and support. BINSA is committed to retaining its high level of advocacy outcomes for all clients, current and emerging major policy issues.

During 2011-2012 we aim to provide specific hot topic discussions and facilitate forums that will advance these in the public domain.

This report acknowledges the significant contribution of previous colleagues and peers, Terri Finn and Kath Robinson who filled the Advocate’s role almost throughout 2010-2011 and John Harley, who served BINSA as Consultant Advocate for several months during this period.

Jan Palmer Advocate

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SECTION 6C

MOTOR ACCIDENT COMMISISON (MAC) 

RECONNECT TRANSITION PROGRAM

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Reconnect Transition Program (RTP) BINSA is funded by the Motor Accident Commission (MAC) to deliver the Reconnect Transition Program (RTP) until 2012-2013. This is an exceptional demonstration of not only generous funding support but reaffirmation that BINSA has been able to successfully deliver a highly regarded support program – the RTP. BINSA would also like to acknowledge upfront that it would not be possible without the support of committed and professionally trained ‘volunteer‘ RTP mentors. BINSA re-engaged Ann Madigan for the period 2010-13 to coordinate and manage the delivery of the program which now incorporates a number of additional features and initiatives.

RTP 2010-11 and beyond In the reportable period there have been two distinct phases of the RTP; in the period SeptemberDecember 2010 while awaiting the outcome of the future funding decision and then January-March 2011, BINSA worked on the planning and scheduling options for the next 12, 18 and 24 months of the program. This included the establishment of the RTP Alumni, a new initiative and an addition to the funding, reviewing the successes of the previous 2 programs and also seeking to add to the stable of trained mentors by conducting another mentor training program for 5 interested applicants.

With an RTP Alumni of approx. 43 potential members in place, 4 separate Alumni events were held, including external activities and in-house round table gatherings, where BINSA’s interest as to provide an inviting and welcoming ‘informal’ gathering point for RTP alumni’s – and also the interest in setting up; an Alumni subcommittee which would be able to self-direct most of the Alumni activities.

Recruitment commenced for the first 2010-11 RTP course and some exploration of regional outreach was undertaken: it’s likely that RTP will be extended to the mid north Clare/Pt Pirie and the outer south metro area eg Victor Harbor/McLaren Vale as well as Mt Gambier where other regional initiatives are being established. BINSA advertised the program at its stand in the Disability and Ageing Expo in the Riverland and at the Regional Advocacy Forum in Mt Gambier.

BINSA is refocusing efforts on recruiting from road related trauma applicants as a high priority with BINSA determined to extend the awareness of the program with more active advertising, ensuring all BINSA events feature the program information and MAC banners to reach more interested individuals.

Planning was in hand for various media options as well as potentially collaborating with MAC ads and promo activity as appropriate.

RTP pause…

Regrettably RTP came to a bit of an unexpected stop late February 2011 due to the illness of coordinator Ann Madigan and we extended Ann a long leave of absence while she took time out to get better.

BINSA negotiated with MAC an extension of 3 months onto the current RTP Contact so we could regroup and recruit depending on Ann’s preferred arrangements. This was granted.

While BINSA continued to highlight the program through various areas of its activities, it is reasonable to state that RTP had effectively gone to pause/search mode for several months.

Recruitment to fill Ann’s ‘shoes’ was never going to be an easy task and BINSA wanted to make sure that the program was well resourced rather than hurry to a decision.

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At this time we are still in search mode, but have agreement with Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre (HRC) to advertise within their internal system for a funded seconded placement at BINSA for up to 12 months. Let’s see how that goes.

RTP Outline RTP structure and content is at the core consistent with past programs. New features in 2010-11 include: RTP Alumni; more courses; annual RTP Mentor Training; additional funding for mentor attendance; regional outreach; monthly Alumni events; quarterly guest sessional speakers; additional in-house infrastructure to support delivery of the program; a funded RTP Assistant position; separate focus on young people and collaboration with NOVITA for improved transition options.

Feedback from participants has consistently been that the structure and the format with small group and mentor support is what allows them to develop and become more confident about both dealing with and accepting their new life paradigm with an ABI. RTP Participant Numbers The new funding will enable up to 24 new participants to join a program in a 12 month period with up to 6 new mentors trained each year Recruitment strategies will be more varied – as already discussed with more potential referrers including;  ‘infotainment advertising’ with The Advertiser  inclusion in BicycleSA enews (subscription of 15,000)  promotion in BINSA Newsletter  circulation of brochures to all SA based Defence Alliance Lawyers via their professional association  ‘word of mouth’ advertising through Brain Injury Rehabilitation Services (BIRS) staff  BINSA staff, members, past participants  Mentors and via RTP Steering Committee members and their networks  through the RTP Alumni  focus on more private health services, accommodation services and GPs  Psychologists  tertiary institutions, entertainment venues and so on.

We will extend our reach through more ‘special’ profile articles in local presses and e-news outlets as well as interviews on community and commercial radio programs.

RTP Mentors BINSA was able to negotiate with MAC for an improved reimbursement arrangement for Mentors when they attend specific RTP course support activities. This is in line with SA guidelines whereby those providing volunteering support in these types of activities should be better remunerated/reimbursed for attendance costs.

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RTP relies on the trained mentors to conduct the program and we are constantly inspired by the commitment and talent of the RTP mentors and how valuable this approach is to providing a program such as RTP – it is what ensures it remains a community based program.

Future RTP Options With BINSA's successful application for extended funding granted, it remains now for the outcomes of the program to provide the evidence for any future continuance.

Longer term funding will support greater referrer confidence and facilitate continuity and seamless movement for those with ABI transitioning from intensive rehabilitation to the RTP which assists with individual’s community reengagement and experience of social independence.

That is what RTP strives to achieve and BINSA is determined during 2011-12 to cement more successful outcomes and awareness of the program m to potential participants. A focus on more collaborative opportunities with allied organisations will improve those options further.

RTP Summary The RTP remains a highly unique and successful program, valued by all participants who complete the course work or involve themselves in other RTP activities. BINSA is optimistic about being able to continue to provide this program in 2011-12 and beyond and looks forward to successfully recruiting a skilled and experienced back fill RTP Coordinator.

Ann Madigan RTP Coordinator

Mariann McNamara Executive Officer

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Annexure ‘A’

BINSA

STRATEGIC PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PRIORITIES 2010-2014

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Brain Injury Network of South Australia

Strategic Plan 2010 – 2014

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Strategic Directions Operational Priorities

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Foreword What is an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) definition of Acquired Brain Injury (ABI): ...multiple disabilities arising from damage to the brain acquired after birth. It results in deterioration in cognitive, physical, emotional or independent functioning. It can be as a result of accidents, stroke, brain tumours, infection, poisoning, lack of oxygen, degenerative neurological diseases etc. (AIHW, 2007)

ABI dimension in SA Based on the most recent paper scoping the issues pertinent to ABI in SA around 1 in 45 Australians (432,700 people) have an acquired brain injury with activity limitations or participation restrictions due to disability. Almost three quarters of these people are aged less than 65 years.

When compared to other states in Australia, SA has the second highest incidence of ABI rates, well above the Australian average of 1.8% of the population. Around 2.2% (31, 000) of the SA population live with an ABI. Data from the SA Department of Health (SA Health) shows a steady increase over the five years (2002-2005) in the number of individuals experiencing a traumatic brain injury (closed head injury) and anoxic brain injury (when oxygen levels are significantly low for four minutes or longer).

A large proportion of people with ABI live in rural and regional areas. In terms of providing both public and private sector services, SA is known for its ‘small market’ situation due to the state’s geographical vastness and relatively small state population: currently just over 1.6m – representing just 8% of the Australian population.

The concentration of specialist brain injury services in metropolitan Adelaide mean that those individuals with an ABI living outside of the metropolitan areas who require rehabilitation face lengthy separation many miles from family and their familiar community.

Brain Injury Network of SA (BINSA) BINSA is the peak body in SA for people with ABI and those who care for them. It is a member-based organisation, which engages with people with an ABI, their families, significant others, service providers and professionals specialising in ABI as well as people and agencies that are interested in the impact of ABI in South Australia.

BINSA is managed by a volunteer Committee of Management (COM), comprised of people who have a range of backgrounds and skills and committed to BINSA’s aims and objectives. The COM is responsible for BINSA’s strategic directions and operational priorities.

BINSA’s day to day operational and financial management is the responsibility of the Executive Officer, supported by a team of highly qualified and experienced staff.

In 2012 BINSA will celebrate 20 years of operation. For a small not-for-profit organisation to remain

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relevant it has sought to actively review and renew. To support that endeavour BINSA has undergone some significant changes in recent years. Long standing staff and COM members who have made significant contributions have retired or moved on, the COM now comprising a spread of long standing members as well as newly elected, including a change over of Chairperson, while retaining a strong representation of members with an ABI, currently three out of the nine COM members.

BINSA re-located to larger premises and a more accessible building during late 2009, which is proving to be more conducive to conducting increased activity for members and the sector, although there is a balancing act regarding communication with and visibility of some staff, as offices are located over 2 floors.

A considerable number of staff changes, including Executive Officer, occurred during 2009-10 and has continued into late 2010. Changes that have improved the level of skills and expertise across BINSA’s programs and services, including the up skilling of existing staff.

BINSA has secured improved funding for well established initiatives along with funding for new programs. New project/program opportunities are a high priority for 2010-11 and beyond.

BINSA Future Strategic Directions Part of adjusting to ongoing change included undertaking a planning process in mid 2010 to review and restate the purpose and strategic direction of BINSA. Input was sought from members, people with ABI, service providers and BINSA staff as well as scanning for trends and emerging issues relevant to SA and the ongoing challenges facing the needs of people with ABI. As a result BINSA’s key directions and operational priorities for the period 2010-2014 have now been determined to focus on these key directions Representation Advocacy Information Service Development and Improvement and addressing these operational priorities Governance Strategic Partners and Collaboration Service Delivery Capabilities Communication

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Mission BINSA strives to increase awareness, acceptance and relevant services in all SA jurisdictions to improve the quality of life, independence and community inclusion of anyone impacted by an acquired brain injury (ABI).

Purpose, Beliefs and Values BINSA, as the peak body representing those impacted by an ABI has a responsibility to ensure anyone with an ABI is given equal consideration in all areas of services, support and care.

Individuals with an ABI are often not recognised as having any form of disability due to the sometimes ‘hidden nature’ of their injury. This may result in them not benefitting from the consideration given to others with a more highly visible disability.

Therefore BINSA holds the following at its core: Purpose Identify needs and represent issues Advocate for change and action on issues that cause disadvantage Identify develop and initiate improved services Be well informed and actively share information Deliver specialised services where appropriate.

Beliefs Individuals with an ABI, their families and significant others are entitled to the protection of their human, legal , civil and consumer rights Individuals with an ABI deserve the highest standard of care and support.

Values We give voice to people with ABI We demonstrate mutual respect and courtesy in our respective roles.

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BINSA Strategic Directions Key result areas

Representation Identify and represent needs and issues relevant to individuals with an ABI, their families, significant others, to service providers, government and the broader community.

Advocacy Advocate for change and action on issues that disadvantage people with ABI.

Information Be well informed and actively share current information related to ABI.

Service Development and Improvement Identify opportunities for service development and improvement to meet the needs for people with ABI their families and significant others.

BINSA Operational Priorities Key result areas

Governance Committee of Management’s (COM) conduct is fully in accordance with the statutory, fiduciary and legal requirements as per the SA Legislation under the Associations Incorporation Act 1985 (AIA 1985).

Strategic Partners and Collaboration Maintain and build key alliances to strengthen our peak body status.

Service Delivery Where appropriate, deliver services to people with ABI or other significant persons.

Capabilities Have adequate resources including finances to fulfil the key roles of the organisation.

Communication Have a strong public profile and with sound public relations strategies.

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SECTION 7

FINANCIAL REPORT

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