It is important to Families4Families that the activities we offer provide assistance to our members. To design them, we have undertaken a comprehensive analysis of family needs throughout South Australia.
Through our research (surveys and focus groups), our potential members have told us that they value:
- Counselling & emotional support: This was the most common comment in our surveys and was also discussed in detail within focus groups. Within focus groups specific ideas included using art therapy and the need for phone support.
- Family support groups: This was also represented strongly in survey responses and heavily discussed in focus groups, where the need for groups appropriate for children and even young carer groups was expressed. The desire to connect with others in similar situations was very evident.
- ABI education, information & resources: The need for more information, opportunities for discussion on ABI and relevant issues was identified in both surveys and discussed in focus groups.
- Social activities: The need for social activities, particularly for the whole family, was expressed in surveys and also discussed in focus groups. The lack of social opportunities was identified as a key source of concern across the board.
- Early supports: The need for support for those early in the ABI journey was expressed in both surveys and also discussed in focus groups. As such, it is hoped that the Network will be able to access acute, rehabilitation and outpatient services to offer support and encouragement to those with ABI and their family members.
- Help to navigate the system: Difficulties and limitations in the ‘system’ were identified within the surveys and discussed heavily in focus groups – particularly when individuals discussed their experiences and lack of received support. The Network recognizes that BINSA has its strategic focus in this area and, as such, we will focus not on systemic change but on educating and empowering our members to better access and understand the system we have. As such, activities will include system navigation and discussions and presentations on new system changes.
- Self-advocacy support & training: Related to the need for system navigation techniques discussed above, survey respondments and focus group participants also expressed the need for training and support in how they can best equip themselves for being the best advocate possible for either themselves or for a family member or friend. This may also bring up areas for which the network could work to lobby for change – one such example which was discussed at our Research Presentation was the need for improvements in the way in which Centrelink assess Carers Allowance and Payment for ABI Carers.