Supported to take greater control of her life, this year Nicolette planned her holiday from start to finish herself.
Image: Nicolette enjoying her holiday in Redcliffe, she is wearing a long pale dress and standing in front of posters.
For Nicolette, holidays have always been something to look forward to – a chance to relax, explore, and try something new. But her most recent holiday was different, not just because of the destination, but because she planned the entire trip herself from start to finish.
Over the past year, Nicolette has been supported to take greater control of her life, free from restrictive practices and chemical restraint. Her support team has focused on building their Active Support skills so they could help Nicolette increase her independence and confidence in making everyday decisions across all areas of her life.
"The change in Nicolette's level of participation and relationships with others has been inspiring”. Said Lisa, one of Nicolette's support workers.
It came as no surprise when Nicolette said she wanted to take a holiday as she had enjoyed many over the years, but this time, everyone was excited to see her take the lead in planning it herself.
After enjoying a trip to SeaWorld last year, Nicolette was keen to try somewhere new. She chatted with Lisa, and together they researched destinations within a two-hour drive. Redcliffe stood out, and Nicolette decided it was the perfect spot for her next adventure.
Image: Nicolette enjoying a meal in a restaurant.
Planning began around two months in advance, Nicolette was supported to create a holiday budget, then searching online to find accommodation, activities, and dining options that suited her budget and preferences.
Having access to images and information helped her to visualise what the experience would be like and make confident, informed choices.
From the destination to the daily itinerary, Nicolette made the decisions, with her team there to support and encourage her throughout.
Her support team showed what’s possible when they work together using Active Support, united in their approach and committed to maximising Nicolette’s choice and control every step of the way.
“The holiday was a huge success. Nicolette returned happy and relaxed, and already has her sights set on the next one," said Lisa.
Image: Nicolette meeting and petting a white dog.
Supporting meaningful lives through Active Support
For more than 80 per cent of the people we support with an intellectual disability, we know that using Active Support is the single greatest influence on improving their quality of life. We have been laying the foundations for this through frontline practice leadership training, monthly webinars, and celebrating stories of the power of everyday engagement through team meetings, forums and newsletters.
By launching our Advancing Active Support Plan, we strengthened our partnership with Professor Chris Bigby and the Living with Disability Research Centre at La Trobe University. Together, we are working towards our vision of making Active Support part of everything we do, so the people we support can live engaged, meaningful, and independent lives.
Active Support is most powerful when it moves beyond training and becomes part of everyday practice.
"We know piecemeal training doesn’t work, which means there is much that will be learned over time from Life Without Barriers’ comprehensive whole of organisation approach to embedding Active Support and Frontline Practice Leadership." Said Professor Chris Bigby.
Are you looking for disability services?
Please get in touch to discuss your plan, ask questions, or request more information. We'd love to hear from you.
Call 1800 610 699 or email disability.enquiries@lwb.org.au.
