Joel ’ s Story
Joel has been living at Parafield
Gardens for nine years . With the full support and trust of Wendy , Peter , his mum Bronwyn , the dedicated team and House Manager , Michelle , we have had the pleasure of supporting Joel . Along the way , we ’ ve had many challenges and many fulfilling and joyful times . Joel was unable to participate in formal education as this was just too stressful for him so the decision was made to home school .
With home schooling we were able to implement an individualized and modified curriculum into Joel ’ s daily life at any time thus alleviating the stress for Joel of time constraints and having to attend a bricks and mortar school . In the last two years , we have worked collaboratively with Modbury Special School for Year Eleven and Twelve with Joel as an external student .
Over the years , we have learned more about Joel ’ s unique communication style and this has worked well for all of us . We learned his way of communicating instead of him having to learn our way as this was stressful for him . Over the last nine years Joel has increased his independent skills and demonstrates a level of enjoyment in his day .
Joel recently turned 18 and had a wonderful time at his party , enjoying cake and non-alcoholic bubbles .
Carer Advisory Group Phone Survey
Earlier this month , the Carer Advisory Group conducted a short phone survey of respite clients . We also wanted to advise the clients about the rebuild of the respite centre and that EBL has been providing respite for people with intellectual disability and autism for the last 40 years . Something that will continue during the respite centre rebuild .
• 58 % of clients were able to take our call . We appreciate that not everyone is available during working hours .
• 100 % were happy with the staff .
• 99 % were happy with communication A few clients would like staff to introduce themselves when booking in .
Tanya Gallas is looking to solve this issue . Some clients had specific questions that I could not answer , therefore , Tanya will contact you as early as possible .
Thank you to those who participated .
Dawn Brodie
Convenor EBL Carer Advisory Group
EBL QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER 7