The NDIS Review and how it may impact you Following the release of the NDIS Review late last year, MHCV have had the opportunity to take a closer look at the recommendations relating to psychosocial disability and how this may impact carers. We are optimistic that, with a thoughtful and coordinated response, the proposed reforms could lead to positive changes in the NDIS and ACT's mental health sector. We also understand that some key NDIS recommendations, if adopted by the government, could affect the support available to you and those you care for. This includes: - The introduction of a new early intervention pathway for most new participants with psychosocial disability in the NDIS, providing support for personal recovery over a time-limited period.
- The acknowledgment of mental health's episodic nature within budgeting parameters, with budgets to be determined based on the support needed on a participant's "bad day".
- The implementation of widely accessible 'foundational supports', co-funded by the ACT. These include programs for information provision, capacity-building, and peer support, as well as recovery colleges. Additional non-clinical services will aid in areas such as relationships, daily living skills, housing, and education. We anticipate an increase in services for building family and carer capacity, as well as more readily available psychosocial education.
- The initiation of a coordinated approach between NDIS foundational supports and public mental health systems for individuals with complex support needs requiring active mental health management.
- The establishment of new practice standards for service providers and workers delivering supports specific to psychosocial disability, aiming to improve outcomes. Providers will need to register, demonstrating appropriate training, skills, and expertise, which we hope will boost carer confidence in accessing respite services.
- The provision of more "step-up, step-down" mental health residential services to support participants in the community. Proposed changes also include a review of disability accommodation design categories and more consistent funding, with 24/7 living supports typically based on a shared support ratio of 1:3.
We will continue to closely monitor the government's response to these proposed changes. We are committed to keeping you informed about developments that could affect the support available to you and those you care for. Stay tuned for more updates.
Do No Harm Training for carers Join us on Monday the 4th of March between 9:30 am to 1pm for an informative, free training session on the Do NO Harm. This is a practical application of MIEACT’s DoNOHarm Framework, a best practice approach to discussing mental illness and trauma. This training offers a unique opportunity to explore personal and professional boundaries ensuring safety when dealing with potentially triggering information. Additionally, you will learn skills to use inclusive language and minimise referred trauma.
We'll have delicious food waiting for you (yet another great reason to sign up right away). Register via this link. Federal Government commitment to Foundational Supports Strategy The Federal Government has begun working on a Foundational Supports Strategy aimed at those living with disabilities. The Strategy is informed by key suggestions from the independent NDIS Review and seeks to bolster disability support for both NDIS participants and those outside the NDIS. An investment of $11.6 million over two years by the Government will facilitate the Strategy's design and consultation processes concerning NDIS access, the development of a best practice model for early childhood supports, methods for accessing and paying for support, and the expansion of home and living options. The disability community, including carers, families, and researchers, will provide diverse insights to inform this process. The National Cabinet will review the Strategy in the latter half of 2024.
Read more about Foundational Supports Strategy via Minister Shorten’s press release.
PSA - Medication safety in mental health careThe Pharmaceutical Society of Australia recently published a report focusing on the safety of psychiatric medications, widely used in Australia for treating mental health conditions. The report discusses the uses, effectiveness, and side effects of these medications - topics which can be complex and often go undiscussed.
This report presents valuable insights for anyone involved with mental health, offering an in-depth analysis of the benefits, risks and most effective ways to use these medications. For those currently on psychiatric medication, remember it's crucial to consult and plan with your prescriber before making any changes to your medications or doses.
To learn more about this comprehensive report, view the key points here and the full version here.
DSS - National Housing and Homelessness Plan consultation summary reportTo help more Australians access safe and affordable housing, the Australian Government is developing a National Housing and Homelessness Plan in collaboration with state and territory governments. The Plan will be a 10-year strategy and will set out a shared vision to inform future housing and homelessness policy in Australia. The Department of Social Services has recently released a Consultation Summary Report as part of the ongoing development of the plan. The report reflects insights gathered from key stakeholders including people with lived experience of mental illness, community mental health organisations and peak bodies between August and October 2023.
If you want to learn more about the insights gained during consultations, check out the full report here.
Supporting mental health: a helpful guide by Black Dog InstituteIt can be hard to know how to support someone who has a mental health issue or whose wellbeing you’re concerned about. The Black Dog Institute has created a comprehensive guide to help. This fact sheet covers identifying signs of struggle and provides useful advice on offering support.
To access this informative guide, please follow this link.
Tuggeranong Arts Centre's 'Messengers' program'Messengers' is an arts-based support program for young people who are experiencing mental ill-health, social isolation, and other issues. The program will offer a range of social groups in 2024 including a specialised program (studio M) for young adults aged 18-25.
For more information, visit the website or apply now: https://forms.office.com/r/enhavQPyJp.
Updates to Health Complaints and Feedback GuideHealth Care Consumers' Association (HCCA) has recently updated their resource, "Take Action! A Guide to Health Complaints and Feedback in the ACT". The revised guide now includes the newly implemented "Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers" that has been in effect since the beginning of 2024. A key highlight of the update is the expanded section on 'How to make a complaint about a health professional' covering detailed information about who the new Code applies to.
You can download the updated guide from the HCCA website.
Understanding and supporting teenagers experiencing school refusalSupporting a teenager who refuses to attend school can be a challenging experience for parents and carers. To assist in navigating this difficult situation, Reach Out has released an informative resource detailing the signs, causes, and implications of school refusal. It also provides various strategies and resources to help manage this behavior while maintaining a positive relationship with your teen. This resource also highlights the importance of acknowledging your feelings and prioritising your mental well-being.
For more information and supportive strategies, access the full article here. Over 50's G’day LineG’day Line is a dedicated service designed to connect individuals aged 50 years and over with a platform for meaningful conversations, custom resources, and connections to activities that align with your interests.This service aims to foster emotional support, a sense of belonging, and empowerment, ensuring every caller feels valued.
G’day Line operates 365 days a year, from 8 am to 8 pm (AEDT/AEST). To reach out and start a conversation, call 1300 920 552. Alternatively, you can request a call-back by visiting their website. Next Steps virtual outpatient programButterfly’s “Next Steps" is comprehensive virtual program designed to offer care after inpatient treatment for eating disorders. This program aims to reduce the risk of relapse and readmission after hospital or residential programs, thereby supporting long-term recovery.
The program is free for eligible Australians and includes a minimum of 3 hours of support per day, 3 days a week, for 8 weeks. The support is provided by a multidisciplinary team and includes individual psychology, dietetic, and peer worker sessions, structured meal support, group programs, and regular case conferencing with a GP or psychiatrist. “Next Steps" also offers support for carers through education and skill-building sessions.
Referrals to the program can come directly from individuals or through a GP or psychiatrist. Upon acceptance, program participants will undergo a comprehensive psychosocial and dietetic assessment. For more information, visit the program's website.
Upcoming training and workshopsIf you are interested and would like some assistance to attend one or more of these learning opportunities, please reach out to us at mhcarers@carersact.org.au to discuss how we can support you.
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