The Iemma Government will deliver new and improved services for young people with a disability living in a residential aged care facility.
Minister for Disability Services Kristina Keneally said an open tender process is being held to identify community organisations to provide specialist disability support services to younger people while they remain in residential aged care facilities.
“These new In-Reach Packages are part of the Younger People in Residential Aged Care (YPIRAC) Program and will provide increased access to services such as day programs, activities and therapy services,” Ms Keneally said.
“These packages will assist those with very high support needs who remain in residential aged care either long-term, or where they are waiting for suitable alternative accommodation to become available.
“Many of these young people have indicated that they would like to remain in their current accommodation with better access to services and supports.
“It is anticipated that up to 52 YPIRAC In-Reach Packages will be made available to prioritised individuals applying for assistance through the program from April 2008.
The Young People in Residential Aged Care Program includes working with young people with a disability, their families and carers over the next five years to support them to:
• Prevent more young people entering residential aged care;
• Improve the lives of those who remain in residential aged care; and
• Develop new services that will enable young people to move to more appropriate accommodation and care options.
Ms Keneally said the Iemma Government has a strong commitment to improving the lives of people with a disability and reducing the number of young people living in residential aged care.
“That is why we have committed to the Younger People in Residential Aged Care Program Bilateral Agreement with the Australian Government,” Ms Keneally said.
“This agreement includes an investment of $81.2 million over five years to assist young people with a disability living in, or at risk of entering residential aged care.
“The NSW Government is contributing 50 per cent of the funding for the program, with the Australian Government providing the remainder.”
The closing date for submitting tenders is 18 January 2008. More information can be found at the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care website www.dadhc.nsw.gov.au