ConnectAbility Project Self Managed Model

National Learning Network Kerry

NLN is the education training and employment access division of Rehab Group and provides individualised & personalised

rehabilitative and vocational training, education support services to 2nd & 3rd level institutions and a variety of labour market integration and community inclusion initiatives.

How NLN delivers these services

• National Learning Network services are delivered through a network of more than 50 locations across Ireland in a town near you.

• We operate a unique and flexible system of continuous all year-round intake for students with no set academic year.

• Our personalised approach to supports for students begins with a detailed assessment of each person’s specific needs.

• This includes using an individualised and inclusive process that is highly effective in removing the obstacles that prevent people from achieving their education, training or employment goals.

• Applying a person-centred approach, all our further education and training services focus on personal development, employability skills development and the removal of barriers to accessing work and community activities.

About ConnectAbility

• ConnectAbility is a Self Managed Model for any eligible adult

with a disability.

• This Self Managed Model is one of the ways you can manage

the money from funding bodies for your chosen community

participation programme.

• This includes:

Individualised funding

Community participation programs

Gain experience using a Self Managed Model

ConnectAbility

• Based on the principles of self-determination, choice, control

and person-centred planning

• Based on assessments of need of individuals, and of their

changing needs over time

• Referral and Intake process managed and supported by

Community Connector and Psychologist

• Health Report / Application Form / Needs Assessment

• Discovery Phases / Monthly Reviews and Individual Action

Plans

REWARD

COMMUNITY SUPPORTS

MANAGE

CHOICE

DEVELOP SKILLS

DECISION MAKING

Project Aims

How did people decide to spend their money?

• Activities of daily living

• Education / Classes

• Exercise / Gym / Sport

• Health and Social Care needs

• Equipment

• Leisure activities

• Health Related Needs

• Work / Job / PPE

• Social activities

• Transport

Benefits of ConnectAbility

• Achieve chosen goals

• Control of their lives during the project

• Greater independence

• Improved quality of life

• Increased community participation

• Planned/Clearer vision for their futures

• Reduced demand for acute care services

due to greater self-reliance

• Outcomes that improve lives through services that are aligned with

actual needs

Benefits beyond the life of the grant

• Explore how services could be reconfigured within a New Directions / Value for Money context

• Enhance service outcomes, promote the use of natural supports and sustainable circles of support reducing reliance on state benefits/paid professionals

• Interconnectivity of natural supports and statutory supports

• The skills and capacities of individuals and

communities will be recognised

• Service systems will be more responsive to

individual needs

Challenges Encountered

• Referral Pathways

• Exits from programme – illness, etc.

• Assessment and management of risk / Safeguarding decisions

• Engagement with family; attitude to risk taking and dynamic

therein

• Balance between natural supports and statutory supports

• Supporting people to recognise choices – knowing what is

available in a community

• Managing expectations – family and individual – aligned with

person-centred safeguarding

• Supports for out of hours services

Case Study Example

When Bob and his family first heard about the ConnectAbility project they thought it was the perfect solution for Bob. Bob had previously attended a centre based training programme. This was not the best option for Bob because he wanted to direct his own life. Being in the ConnectAbility project means Bob's Community Participation program can fit around his interests. He has started a part-time course in Welding which he really enjoys.

“What has ConnectAbility meant for Bob? He is happy! He has a say in what he does every day. He has greater control over his life. He is trying new things and gaining confidence in learning from these experiences. He is more relaxed. And so are his family.”

Successes

• All participants felt an increase in – Independence

–Confidence

– Self Esteem

– Activity

– Sense of purpose

– All learned to drive

• One participant doing course with CIT, travels independently and unassisted 2 days per week

• Arranges own accommodation & gave up smoking 40 cigs a day!!

• Another participant working for local farmer 4 evenings a week

Thanking you all

We can be contacted as follows:

Lucianne.bird@nln.ie 087 662 4697

Elizabeth.devaneybarrow@nln.ie 086 026 1096