Positive Behaviour Practices

February 3rd, 2012

Presented by renowned Behavioural Psychologist,

Associate Professor Keith McVilly
 

This session will provide carers, family members and professionals with information to assist in providing effective and ethical support for people with an intellectual disability whose behaviour is challenging.

Wednesday 29 February 2012 10am to 12.30pm. Melton Community Hall,232 High Street, Melton

Morning tea and light lunch provided

Bookings required contact Melton Shire Council Customer Service on 9747 7200

This is a significant opportunity for people who are caring for a person with an intellectual disability whose behaviour is challenging. Professor Keith McVilly, and industry leader on Positive Behaviour Practises, will talk about strategies that support carers and professionals. He will use his extensive knowledge and carers real life experiences to develop practical solutions.

Positive Behaviour Practices looks at the environment and the person to help with the best outcomes. Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) is an empirically validated, function-based approach to eliminate challenging behaviours and replace them with prosocial skills. The use of PBS decreases the need for more intrusive or aversive interventions (i.e., punishment or suspension) and can lead to both systemic as well as individualized change.

 

The fight for independence

February 3rd, 2012

We are parents of twins Luke and Erica who were both born with a disability. After the initial shock we made the decision that we would always ensure that they would enjoy a happy, and as normal life as possible.

As Luke and Erica became older the goal we wished to achieve was that one day they would have the chance to live independently from our family just like other young adults. We made contact with DHS and entered the twins name on the waiting list for permanent accommodation.

As time went by frustration was beginning to set in, as they could not understand why they had to wait for such a long time to become independent. DHS funded us for some weekend programs to allow them more freedom, but this only plugged the discontent for a short period, and did not resolve the underlying problem of a permanent home for the twins. Unfortunately as time went by the twins became more determined to leave home, thus creating an atmosphere of frustration and anger towards us for not being able to meet their desire of independence.

I had met another mum who had a son living in a DHS Community Residential Unit which she was unhappy about because of the age group mix of the clients in the house. We decided that we would work towards creating a home for our children that would be a happy, safe, and allow community access for them, thus enabling them lots of interaction with other people and a chance to have some freedom like other young adults their age. We approached DHS to see if they were interested in helping us to achieve this goal. We were told to create a model for this house, and then the department would look at it.

Over the two year period we faced many rejections by DHS. They constantly responded to us that there was a lack of funds each time we approached the department. Over this period we faced an emotional rollercoaster of frustration, anger tears, depression, to the extent that you wonder whether life has any quality for anyone in your family.

We continued to try to achieve this home for our children by visiting and contacting as many people that might help us; we also kept in regular contact with staff at DHS. Eventually on our last visit to the department they stated that they would look at funding this home for us but we had to produce a model that they thought would be workable. There was no guarantee by DHS how long this process would take to complete and when we would have the end result of a home for the children. Unfortunately as time went by the unhappiness was building up in our home, and frustration and anger was directed at us for not achieving their goal of independent living.

Things changed for us when Erica had enough and took herself to out of our home and ended up living in respite. She was fed up with us telling her it will happen and nothing was forth coming. Erica was now living in respite and became homeless as we had to make the decision that we couldn’t continue with our home situation due to the constant stress and anger that we had been experiencing.

We were at breaking point and felt we were unable to continue this situation of her living at home without some major disaster happening within our family. Erica was in respite for 4 months and her time was running out, in that time we had no communication from DHS about her situation.

We were eventually taken to look at a house for her by Pinarc her case manager in view of it begin a permanent place for her and her brother, however the size and standard of the house were inadequate for her needs, in that she was in a wheelchair. Plus I don’t see why they have to make do with accommodation that is not suitable for their needs, especially as we always strived to create a comfortable home for them. Just because they have a disability their rights to live in a decent environment should not be denied.

Due to the fact that nothing else eventuated with regards to accommodation we decided that our only solution would be to buy a house for the twins and set them up. The Department agreed to fund the cost of full time carers for them, we searched and found the ideal house for them, which we set up to create that friendly home environment that had been our goal.

The twins are now living independently from us with great success and as they have both matured in different areas, the anger and frustration that they had been feeling has dissipated. They are both enjoying a great social interaction with their carers and we are trying to organize more outings into the community for them, thus to continue to broaden their experiences.

Since this move has occurred we have once again been able to forge a relationship with our children as parents and not just as worn out carers. It is great to be a parent again.

Heidi

Soul Food

February 1st, 2012

Soul Food is a unique monthly event held at the Art Gallery of Ballarat, providing an opportunity to relax in a tranquil environment and reflect on inspiring themes and common threads that tie us all together.

It features music, audio-visual pieces and readings from various faiths and philosophers, authors, leaders and indigenous cultures, from all over the world.

Soul Food is a free community event open to all.

10.30am–11.30am, second Sunday of every month at the Art Gallery of Ballarat Annexe, 40 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Victoria.

www.soulfood.com.au

soulfoodvic@gmail.com

Tel: 0423 242 972

Too difficult?

January 31st, 2012

Have you ever been called difficult, frustrating or non-compliant? It’s sad that this is the way we label people who are simply fighting for the right to be heard. The reality is that the disability sector is chronically underfunded and there is simply not enough respite and support available. As a person with a disability or a carer it can feel as though it is an ongoing battle getting the system to respond.

At Pinarc Disability Support we understand that there are times when a person we are working with will refuse to listen to our advice or have wishes that we cannot realistically provide. This can be challenging but as we share the benefit of our experience and knowledge, we let the client decide on the best course of action for them. We believe totally that the freedom to choose is a basic right for everyone.

So, this is a short shout-out message to everyone out there fighting to be heard. Even when it may seem that we are just another part of the system, we see behind your struggle. We see the love, determination and tenacity to get the very best for your family member. We applaud the being ‘difficult’ or ‘frustrating’ as these times tell us how important the issue is to you. Respectfully we are there giving a silent cheer and walking alongside trying to help as you give the system another shake.

More power to the so-called difficult as they are the ones who change the world!

Something for You

January 30th, 2012

We are having the ultimate garage sale as no money is required!

The toy and equipment library staff have been busy doing a stock take during the Christmas break to remove items from the library which have not been used for a long period of time, have become obsolete or just aren’t being borrowed for other reasons.  All of these items are in very good condition and may be of interest to therapists, individuals and families.

We need to clear the space before we can complete the stock take.  Our first priority is to offer the items to Pinarc staff and programs and / or current Pinarc clients.  Remaining items will then be offered to other agencies.

As the items are currently stored in the large equipment room, we need library staff members to show you what is available to take and we have set up the following viewing times:

  • Wed Feb 1st   9.30-11.00am
  • Fri Feb 3rd   2.00-5.00pm
  • Thurs Feb 9th   3.00–4.30pm

Come along and have a look and feel free to take what you think you might need.

 

We want your opinion

January 20th, 2012

Do you have a disability?

Do you currently use an on-line forum to connect with others?

Are you a parent/carer supporting an adult or child with a disability?

Do you currently use an on-line forum to talk with other parents/carers?

Would you like to to be able to use an on-line forum to share information and access professional advice? 

Is this something that you would like us to explore further?

Let us know what you think. Please leave a comment or send an email to admin@pinarc.org.au

 

 

Mindless vandalism wasting time & money

January 13th, 2012

Staff arriving this morning were faced with graffiti on the wall of the Gent Street building at Pinarc Disability Support. It is a disappointing day indeed when we need to spend our limited resources on needless repair work.

 The wonderful team at BEST moved quickly to deal with the graffiti covered brick wall but we will still be faced with a costly clean up task of repainting the other wall.

 It is difficult to see how the unattractive tags could have given anyone a sense of pride or fulfillment. We all have the choice to make a difference in a positive way and this seems like such a pointless waste of time and energy.

 If we had the chance to speak to the person responsible we would say join with us to find a way to promote a message that will be listened to and heard. A message that actually has something important to say like ‘see the person and not the disability’ or ‘I might not be able to talk or walk like you but I want to be included just the same like you’.

 

There goes our wall

January 4th, 2012

A truck has crashed into the wall of the Adult Day Program of Pinarc Disability Support in Otway Street South. Police and SES attended the scene on 23rd December 2011 to secure the site. All day programs had to be cancelled leaving many people with a disability at home and carers having to change their plans right before Christmas.

Programs will resume as normal in 2012 and we hope the birds nesting in the roof have been able to find themselves a new home!

 

 

Christmas Giving

January 4th, 2012

The spirit of Christmas came alive for the young people with a disability and their families in the Interchange Program. Pinarc Disability Support was presented with a donation of $4000 by the wonderful staff at Centrelink’s Wendouree Call Centre. Every year the staff host a number of fundraising activities and nominate one local community organisation as the lucky beneficiary.

We were presented with the cheque at the Centrelink’s staff Christmas celebration and are so grateful to have been chosen this year. The money raised will go directly towards providing much needed respite for families who care for a child with a disability.

The Interchange program provides respite and social support to families and young people with a disability. Interchange workers support volunteer hosts to care regularly for a child or young person with a disability in their own home usually for one weekend a month. Visits vary from short day visits to one or two overnight stays.

One of the highlights of the year for the Interchange program is the annual Family Camp which is offered to all families and volunteers. This is an opportunity for strengthening the bonds between families and volunteers and a chance for everyone to have a break over a fun weekend. The Centrelink staff’s donation will help Pinarc to cover the costs of the camp and include some new activities to the 110 plus people who will be attending.

There are times when caring for a child with a disability can be both physically and emotionally demanding and without regular respite the wellbeing of carers can be impacted. With current levels of funding we are struggling to meet the demand for respite for families who are caring day in day out without a break. The Interchange program provides people interested in helping for one or two days per month with a chance to make a huge difference in the lives of another family.

We have a number of families waiting to be matched with a volunteer host, so for anyone interested in finding out more we would encourage them to make contact with Pinarc Disability Support on 5329 1398.

 

Chris Packer writes about his Kokoda experience

December 6th, 2011

Our trek began with a flight from Port Moresby to Kokoda crossing some of the mountain ranges which we would be trekking across. The mountain ranges were spectacular with small villages scattered at various positions up the mountains and as far as the eyes could see. Tension was building within the group as we individually wondered if we were up to the challenge.

The trek commenced at Kokoda with a 2 hour walk that started on relatively flat ground but then got increasingly steeper as we progressed into the mountains. The next 8 days consisted of trekking some of the most beautiful but imposing mountains I had ever seen. The track wandered relentlessly for 96 kilometres up steep gradients some of which took hours to climb and then back down to rivers where the currents were strong enough to knock your feet from under you. Occasionally, we would walk on the edge of wet slippery cliffs with sheer drops to the right. You dared not shift your attention from the track. Nothing could save you if you tripped and toppled over the edge. The experience was intense. Trekking down the various mountain ranges was no less challenging with endless tree roots and slippery clay ground compromising your safety. Intense concentration was required as the climb down could take many hours to complete. Many of the trekkers preferred an uphill climb to a downhill because there was less pressure on knees, ankles and toes. We trekked through the jungle under a canopy of huge trees but nothing would keep us dry once the rains started. 

The track would become increasingly slippery and more treacherous whilst humidity would take your breath away. Rarely was there flat ground in which to catch your breath even though we took many breaks to recover from the intense physical activity. 

Most nights were spent in small villages at the top of mountain ranges above the clouds. Nights were spent in communal huts where the snoring and farting of 15 – 20 guys made a good night’s sleep almost impossible. Some of the trekkers slept in small tents. They were happy to compromise space to get some solitude. Unfamiliar night sounds pervaded you’re sleep whilst the monsoonal rains would roar overhead soaking the track for the next day’s walk. 

The mornings greeted us with stunning sunrises but a risen sun heated the air very quickly. Humidity became our nemesis. As the days progressed, we would seek relief from the heat by swimming in various streams and rock pools. The freezing water would refresh us instantly and reinvigorate us for the next hill challenge. As we progressed through the local villages, the local New Guineans would wave and look bemused as 25 weary trekkers with heavy backpacks, marched through the heat looking for relief from the sun. Of a night, we would shower in cold water from the mountain streams before eating at around 6.00pm. Every night, a fire was lit to stave off the cold. Often we would be in bed before 8.00 pm as the daily grind took its toll on our bodies and minds. We also knew that the following day would be no easier than the preceding. 

The New Guinea Porters (our Fuzzy Wuzzies), tended to our safety, care & daily needs with pride and respect. There still exists an obvious and palpable bond between the two countries – the origin being the Japanese landing in New Guinea.  At various parts of the track the porters literally hold our lives in their hands, monitoring our every move and every step as we trekked steep inclines & declines or the edges of cliffs. Their quiet disposition and unobtrusive manner belied their effectiveness and importance within the trekking group. They walked the track with the precision and grace of a panther, rarely faltering, always aware. They were a second shadow. It`s as if the track was part of their DNA. Daily, they would setup camp, cook the evening meals and clean up – no noise – no fuss – no personal request too big or too small. Occasionally, after the trekkers had retired to bed, the porters would sing – beautiful harmonies settling the weary trekkers. 

As the days progressed, the trekkers bonded as a group and much moral support was provided to those who were struggling, tired or missing loved ones. It`s amazing how a pat on the back or a “high 5″ can lift your spirit when you feel flat. No-one was left on their own when the pressure was on – there was no excuse for not helping your mate. Days 6 & 7 saw many blisters, aching joints, Malaria carrying mosquito bites, and tired and weary bodies looking for relief – somewhere, anywhere. Whilst spirits were generally good, energy levels were diminishing daily as the steep climbs took their toll. However, all this pain and discomfort was put into perspective with a daily recount of what the Australian troops experienced during the war at various significant locations on the track. The diggers fought in monsoonal rains, carrying 50 kilogram backpacks, with no protection against Malaria, limited food, limited or no sleep and fighting a relentless Japanese enemy that seemed to have scant regard for their own lives and even less for those of the Australians. To win at all cost was the philosophy of the enemy – the collateral damage to human life was immense. With regular reminders of what occurred during the war surrounding us, the only battle we encountered was our own private one. Mental and physical fatigue dented your confidence. Sleepless nights, wet clothes, soggy weetbix and relentless climbs clouded your judgment. Every day was a new challenge but a new day bought us closer to our goal. 

The last night on the track bought with it a new found enthusiasm. Pep talks and excitement replaced solemnity. Personal doubts were replaced by a feeling of achievement that the end was near. Trekkers mingled with the porters in quiet anticipation of the last day. On the last night of a Kokoda trek, it is tradition that porters stay awake all night. They too have much to celebrate. The trekkers were safe and all were capable of completing the trek – be it assisted or unassisted. They spoke and sang quietly amongst themselves – and at 4.30 am on the last day commenced the daily routine of preparing breakfast. Spirits were rising as the last day dawned. The weather was perfect – no rain likely. The final day consisted of a big climb, a 6 kilometre intense downhill run consisting of numerous river crossings and one last climb to the Kokoda Arch. It would take about 5 – 6 hours to complete.

 THE LAST DAY

The day commences with the usual war cry. The war cry finishes with “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie – Oi, Oi, Oi. The head porter sets the pace of the trekking group. No-one can pass. Our head porter is called Mudman. The intention for the last day is to keep the trekkers together. In previous days, the more agile and fitter trekkers could be well ahead of the main group. There exists an element of healthy competition – who can maintain composure up lung busting hills – who can stay on their feet down uneven and slippery ground – who can cross a river and not be swept away. This competition dissipates on the last day and is replaced with a common focus. Everyone is to cross through the arches together – it is tradition. Mudman maintains a steady pace. If someone falls behind, he holds up the main group. Everyone enjoys a rest. I decided before commencing the trek that I would not wear a watch. I didn`t want to know that I had only been walking for 3 hours when it felt like 6. The strategy worked. Most of the time I had no idea what the time was. It becomes irrelevant when getting to the final village before dusk is the goal. The last day is different. I want to know what the time is. I check it every half hour or so anticipating a 2.00pm finish. The hours disappear and after an exhausting 3 hour downhill trek, we are confronted by the final hill – a 300 metre uphill climb, the last 20 minutes in hot sun. 

Experiencing The Kokoda Trail has been an inspiring, exhilarating and amazing journey. I am humbled that I have been able to experience this with a group of people that mirror comradeship. It has been a somber reminder of times gone by and the many people who did not return. To utilize my Kokoda journey to raise awareness and much needed funds for Pinarc Disability Support Glimpses Project has also reminded me of the generosity of everyday people and that community spirit remains in their hearts.

Narrapumelap