The theme this year was, ‘One person at a time: ensuring an individual based approach to complexity within the NDIS Framework.’ Woven throughout the presentations, discussions and workshops was the need to focus on the individual and the importance of a safe place to call home.
Possability’s own Nicola Crates, EGM, Practice Innovation and Service Development, welcomed us to the second day of the conference and spoke about how our home is more than just where we live. Our home is the stable base from which we grow and thrive, and it’s the starting point for overcoming complexity.
Keynote speakers
Professor Christine Bigby examined the effectiveness of planning, exercising choice and control, issues around functional capacity assessments and the need for greater attention to the unique needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Brendan Murray looked at complexity and the justice system and how people experiencing crisis might be better supported, while Brian McClean presented his study emphasising the importance of true person-centred planning and how organisations can incorporate this approach when supporting people to move into their own home.
Other highlights
Matthew Spicer, Possability Practice Leader, and Gillian Martin, Soiléir Psychology Services, ran a Motivational Interviewing workshop introducing attendees to the process, which seeks to identify an individual’s strengths and understand what motivates them. Brendan Crates, Possability Practice Consultant, and Robert Davies gave an emotional recount of Robert’s journey to achieve his goal of travelling the world. Robert was kind enough to bring in his travel photographs to share.
Attendees heard an interesting range of perspectives and ‘insider information’ about the housing sector from the SDA panel and gained insights around integrating trauma-informed approaches into practice from Helen Killmier, CEO of Guidestar. Further, the value of education for workforce capacity was discussed by University of Tasmania representatives.
Drew Beswick, Possability CEO, closed out the conference reflecting on choice and control. “If there’s one thing we want you to take away from today,” he said, “it’s to ask yourself often: ‘what can I do?’” When we focus on the individual and examine the environment, our approach, techniques or support, we’re better able to meet people’s needs and ensure they have control over the things they want and need in their lives.
Thank you
We would like to thank every one of our speakers for making this year’s conference another outstanding event. And thanks to all who joined us both in person and online.
Our gratitude to our sponsors, who made the conference possible: University of Tasmania, Nexus inc., La Trobe Financial, Hesta, Access Pay and International Wise Counsel.
With thanks,
Possability Engagement Team
Possability GM of Growth and Partnerships Jodie Henry, EGM of Practice Innovation and Service Development Nicola Crates and Practice Consultant Sally Crates welcomed people to the conference. This year it was held over two days in two states, Victoria and Tasmania, and hosted virtual attendees and speakers.