Empowering People with Down syndrome or intellectual disability
Down Syndrome Australia (DSA) is working with a Project Reference Group to co-create accessible resources that help people with Down syndrome or intellectual disabilities understand and exercise their rights when accessing NDIS services and supports.
DSA also collaborated with service providers and workers to develop targeted resources for other colleagues in their sector. These resources aim to enhance their knowledge and skills in upholding the rights of people with disabilities within the NDIS.
This approach ensures that both people with disabilities and their support workers or service providers are equipped with the tools and information they need to navigate the NDIS confidently and respectfully.
How did DSA do co-design for Supporting My Rights?
The project worked with two Project Officers with intellectual disability and a Project Reference Group made up of 6 people with intellectual disabilities.
The Project Officers were part of the evaluation co-design process to develop the evaluation framework that is helping to gather information about the impact the project is having on the participants and the community.
The Project Reference Group met frequently with project staff to plan, edit and provide advice to the development of the resources for the project. The project moved through several stages of feedback and editing to ensure that everyone’s voice and expertise was included in the resources.
Outcomes achieved during the reporting period
During the reporting period, the project recruited and onboarded 8 people with intellectual disability to deliver the project. The team started working together in May and resources conceptualisation, planning, and design was carried out throughout June.
Biggest achievements of the reporting period
Recruitment of all the new staff members to the project and planning and co-design of the resources.
Quotes
“It has been great to be part of this project and help make changes to the resources which will help people with disabilities to understand things in simple Easy Read language.
I love working with the other team members. We work well together, support each other and learn new skills in a respectful manner.
The highlight was getting to meet new people on the Project Reference Group and working with Cat, Alanna and Greg. Also planning the upcoming Podcast & Photoshoot.”
Ally Gillies – Project Reference Group member
“My favourite part of being in the Project Reference Group is having my voice heard, and being a voice for people who aren’t as confident.”
Bri George – Project Reference Group member
“I really enjoyed meeting the designer of the logo. She has a disability and lived experience, which made it feel even more special. I was able to contribute a lot of ideas to the project, and it was exciting when the group took on some of the things I suggested. Seeing my ideas included made me feel proud. Another highlight for me was getting paid work — that feeling is fun and rewarding. Overall, what I’ve enjoyed most about working for DSA is being part of a team where my input is valued.”
Ben Chew – Project Reference Group member