Dear all
I have just started a new position as a community development
worker/advocacy support worker for the residents of a nursing home. These
residents have a variety of disabilities, primarily physical, and vary in
ages from 25-85.
Due to various legal, political and personal battles (amongst managers,
owners, and funders) these individuals are being relocated to another
premises as a temporary arrangement before they will move on to more
appropriate alternatives (ie more inclusive and independent living spaces).
From what i understand, my role is to develop their skills of self advocacy
which includes keeping them informed about their options to enable them to
make choices about their lives. I am hoping that one outcome will be in
establishing a resident's group which will enable residents to have more of
a proactive role in what happens during this difficult time. A major
barrier is the impact of institutionalisation and these people neither know
nor want anything different.
I have a vision for what i would like to see happen yet making it a reality
is an ongoing challenge. Therefore I would welcome any advice, comments or
suggestions about where to go from here.
Many thanks!
Harriet Radermacher
Melbourne, Australia
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