Several resident’s stories highlight the different roles that Group Homes play in Australian society. One resident, aged 39, had very little speech when she moved to the city from the country. She lives on her own except for occasional help from the Australian Association of Intellectually Disabled (A.A.I.D) and travels by public transport to work. Another resident, aged 30, is non-verbal and engaged in domestic work. She complains about the way her mother dresses her and has difficulty with social situations.
Supported living
Supported living is a popular alternative for older people who find it difficult to maintain a home on their own. However, the quality of life for people in group homes and supported living is often poor. The study suggests that the current care arrangements are not delivering the best outcomes for older people.
Group homes
Group homes are residential facilities for people with intellectual disabilities in Australia. Approximately 17,000 people in this country live in group homes. These people share a single home with many other people with Group Homes Australia similar needs and disabilities. Many have no other option, so they are forced to live in these homes. Group homes were once considered innovative, but today most of these homes are nothing more than mini institutions.
Advocacy
In addition to helping residents with disabilities live a better life, advocacy is an important part of the process. Group homes are subject to a variety of policies and standards. However, these policies and standards are often inadequate to meet the needs of residents. This is where advocacy comes in. Inclusion consultants work with group homes to develop inclusive communities and programs that support children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They also offer support groups and financial assistance based on need.
NDIS
As the NDIS rolls out across Australia, significant variations in the quality of group homes remain. Many are old and not fit for purpose. The new SDA-funded housing stock will help to address these shortcomings, but it is not without risk.
Analysis of data from WWDACT’s Discussion Paper series
There have been a number of papers published about Group Homes and the economy in recent years. One study examined the economic activity of people aged 55 years and older, while another examined housing and tax policy, as well as affordability of housing for lower-income households.
Impact of NDIS on people with disability
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is one of the most ambitious personalised funding schemes in the world. However, the process of implementing it must be monitored for its impact on existing inequities. In addition, it is important to maintain block funding in remote areas. This new scheme offers important lessons for other countries that are considering introducing similar individualised funding schemes. Inequity in health outcomes is a serious issue, and the NDIS should not be implemented without taking into account the needs and limitations of the people who are eligible.