Upper Hunter Shire Council DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION ... · 1. I am pleased to present Upper Hunter Shire Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2017-2021. The Plan demonstrates

Upper Hunter Shire Council • Disability Inclusion Action Plan 1

Upper Hunter Shire CouncilDISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN 2017/2018-2020/2021

Upper Hunter Shire Council • Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Message from the Mayor .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1About this Plan ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2What is a Disability ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4Inclusions and Access .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4What does Inclusion mean for a person with a Disability ............................................................................................................................. 5About the Laws ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5Commonwealth Legislation ............................................................................................................................................................................................6State Legislation .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................6About our Shire ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7Some of the Disability Related Services offered in our Shire now ...........................................................................................................9What Council can do ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11What we did to Prepare this Plan .............................................................................................................................................................................. 12Priority Actions in the next 4 years ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12Our Strategies and Action Plan 2017-2021 .............................................................................................................................................................13Risk Assesment ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21Monitoring, Reporting and Reviewing .................................................................................................................................................................... 21Acknowledgement .............................................................................................................................................................................................................22Who to Contact .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................22References ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................22

TABLE OF CONTENTS


I am pleased to present Upper Hunter Shire Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2017-2021. The Plan demonstrates a commitment to improving inclusion and access in our community, outlining actions planned over the next four years. People with disabilities and their carers have the same rights as everyone to choose their involvement in and contribution to our community – how they live, work and enjoy the vibrant life of the various communities in the Upper Hunter Shire.

Council’s vision is for a quality rural lifestyle in a vibrant, caring and sustainable community. The caring aspect particularly, supports Council’s leadership role in making Upper Hunter Shire an accessible and inclusive community for people with a disability. Our approach is whole of life, through our direct service provision of quality early childhood services, youth services, libraries, community halls and other vital infrastructure, through to aged and disabled accommodation and services.

During the last year Council has consulted with community members through public meetings, small group meetings and one on one interviews, as well as conducted a community survey, consulted with some key stakeholders, and provided opportunities for Council staff to reflect on disability issues in our workplace. Council also provided opportunities to raise issues at local events such as the Seniors Expo and Market Day.

I would like to extend Council’s sincere appreciation to everyone involved in the development of this very important Plan.

Cr Wayne BedggoodMAYORUPPER HUNTER SHIRE COUNCIL

Message from the Mayor


Local Government is required by the Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA 2014) to develop a Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) by 1 July 2017. This planning must include:

• Consulting people with a disability

• Submitting a copy of the DIAP actions to the Disability Council NSW

• Reporting on implementation of our DIAP in our Annual Report and forward a copy to the Minister

• Reviewing the DIAP every four years

The plan must address four key areas with strategies and actions:

• Developing positive community attitudes and behaviours

• Creating Liveable communities

• Supporting access to meaningful employment

• Improving access to services through better systems and processes

Upper Hunter Shire Council has had a Disability Action Plan for many years, but the requirement for a DIAP has enabled it to review, consult and highlight the Inclusion and Access issues in our Shire, and update our Plans.

Council’s Draft Community Strategic Plan 2027 sets out its Vision, Values and Commitments for the next 10 years.

Our Values include:• Mutual respect for all people and cultures.

• Ensure staff and community safety.

• Efficient, effective and reliable service.

• Honest, open and accountable.

• Deliver on our Commitments.

• Improved Environmental Responsibility.

Our commitment to the Community:• We will deliver high quality, innovative, consistent and responsive services to

the community.

• We respect the rights of everyone to be treated fairly.

• We will keep our community informed about Council services and financial position.

• We will continually strive to improve our services to the community and encourage community engagement.

• We will deliver increased effort in the protection of the environment.

Our commitment to each other• We will conduct a safe, fair and open workplace where achievements are

recognised and people are encouraged to develop personally.

• We will communicate openly and in clear and consistent language.

This vision, values and commitment underpin our work to be inclusive and provide access to all aspects of community life for all people in the Upper Hunter Shire.

About this Plan


Relevant sections of our draft Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2027 include:

KEY FOCUS AREA – COMMUNITY LIFE

Goal 1 A supported CommunityG1 CS1 Advocate for, develop and implement programs, services and facilities

for our ageing Community.G1 CS2 Form partnerships and participate in networks which address the needs

and interests of disadvantaged and disability groups in the Community.G1 CS3 Advocate for, support and provide services and facilities for young

people, children, families and people with a disability.G1 CS4 Facilitate partnerships which create and support a safe, inclusive and

caring Community.

KEY FOCUS AREA – COMMUNITY LIFE

Goal 2 Promote wellbeing and a connected, healthy and happy Community.

G2 CS5 Advocate for, support and facilitate the provision of facilities for health and health related services.

G2 CS6 Support existing education facilities and enhance learning opportunities.G2 CS7 Provide and support a broad range of sport, recreation, health and

wellness programs to target age specific needs of residents including younger children, older children, adolescents, families, seniors and people with a disability.

G2 CS8 Provide information and opportunities for everyone, especially those that are disadvantaged to participate fully in our Community life.

KEY FOCUS AREA – BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Goal 4 Plan for a sustainable futureG4 CS15 Plan, facilitate and provide for a changing population for current and

future generations.

KEY FOCUS AREA – ECONOMY AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Goal 6 Increase, enhance and maintain civil infrastructure, Community assets and open spaces to meet the needs of current and future generations.

G6 CS24 Provide for replacement, improvement and additional Community and open space infrastructure through investment, best practice and risk management.

G6 CS25 Provide inviting public spaces that are clean, green, properly maintained, well designed, encourage active participation, family friendly and accessible to all.

KEY FOCUS AREA – ECONOMY AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Goal 7 Enhance and improve the road network and bridges to meet the needs of current and future generations and communicate priorities and progress to the Community.

G7 CS28 Increased Community engagement and updates on infrastructure planning, road priorities, works and improvements.

KEY FOCUS AREA – LEADERSHIP

Goal 8 Provide Community leadership.G8 CS32 Promote and celebrate the achievements of Council and the local

Community.G8 CS34 Community is effectively engaged, can provide opinion and contribute to

decisions that plan for the present and future of the Upper Hunter Shire.

KEY FOCUS AREA – LEADERSHIP

Goal 9 Advocate for the Community.G9 CS40 Encourage and build strong partnerships between the Community,

business and all levels of government to support implementation of the CSP 2027 and to deliver the Community priorities.

G9 CS42 Provide timely and effective advocacy and leadership on key community issues and priorities.


It is important the community is aware of what is classified as a disability - It is not just someone in a wheelchair, it encompasses so much more and there are many illnesses and chronic diseases which can cause some form of disability.

Survey respondent UHS 2017

What is a Disability?

The Disability Inclusion Act 2014 (DIA) defines disability as:

“The long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder the full and effective participation in society, on an equal basis with others”

Inclusion and AccessThe social model of disability, outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), states people with disability are not disabled by their impairment but by the barriers in the community that prevent them gaining equal access to information, services, transport, housing, education, training, employment and social opportunities.

It is our social responsibility to remove or reduce those barriers to enable people with a disability to optimise their involvement and sense of belonging to the community.

Personal choice and control for all people in society is only possible in a community which ensures access and inclusion for people with disability, including physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, cognitive disabilities, sensory disabilities, and those with mental health conditions. Without an inclusive society and the opportunities that an inclusive community provides, diversity is not promoted, control over choice is limited and positive change for people with disability may not occur.

The case for an inclusive society and community is strong:

• A diverse range of ideas, views and opinions and participation enriches our society and the communities we live in.

• The impact of segregating or excluding sections of people can have a severe impact on their lives, their families as well as the life of a community in general, including fostering dependency, poor mental and health, straining welfare services, lessening education and employment options.

• Disadvantage and discrimination can have lifelong impacts on people who are excluded from community life.

There is a strong economic imperative for increasing the inclusiveness of our society. Analysis indicates that providing people with disability real job opportunities and the chance to move off social service dependence can have a large economic impact.

Greater inclusion of people with a disability in the community is also recognised as a fundamental purpose of the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020, the current ten year plan aimed at improving the lives of Australians with disability, their families and carers.

There are significant economic reasons for increasing the inclusiveness of our society. There are financial gains for both individuals and for the economy by moving people into productive and fulfilling employment and by reducing modification costs through inclusive planning and the application of universal design principles.


What does Access and Inclusion mean for a person with a disability?For people with disabilities, access can mean different things depending on the type of disability the person has and the activities that the person wants to do. For example:

• For a person using a wheelchair, access is important in regard to things like: steps; slopes; narrow or hard to open doors; car parking; and toilets that are large enough to accommodate them.

• For a person with vision impairment, access is important in things like: lighting; signs that are large enough to be read; warnings of hazards; safe paths; and information provided in audio or large print. A person may think of access in terms of information being available in a variety of formats (Braille, on disk, on tape, etc) as well as pathways that are free of hazards, like low tree branches.

• A person who has an intellectual disability may think of access as the use of language that is easy to understand and the use of symbols on signs to reduce reliance on the written word.

• A person with a psychiatric disability (or mental health disorder) may think of access in terms of people's attitudes and behaviour towards them; feeling included is very important.

• A person who is deaf or has hearing impairment considers access in terms of communication, particularly having information in visual forms, the use of sign interpreters and telephone access via telephone typewriters (TTYs).

In each of the above examples a person with a disability thinks of access in terms of what is necessary so they can have the same level of access and inclusion as the rest of the Community.

About the LawsPeople with disabilities, their families and carers have the same rights as all people to be included and be able to access services, facilities and the life of the community. These rights are part of the Commonwealth and State legislation and policies, and they make it unlawful to discriminate against a person with a disability.

The State Government now requires Upper Hunter Shire Council and other Councils to develop a Disability Inclusion Action Plan by 30th June 2017.

The following refers to the policy and legislation framework that informs the development of local government disability access and inclusion planning.

From: NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines Local Government NSW and NSW Family & Community Services.


United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)

Australia ratified the UNCRPD in 2008. It acknowledges that people with a disability have the same human rights as those without disability. This commits participating governments to ensure these rights can be exercised and that barriers are removed.

National Disability Strategy 2010-2020 (NDS)

The NDS 2010-2020, developed in partnership by the Commonwealth, State and Territory and Local governments, sets out a national plan for improving life for Australians with disability, their families and carers, to support the commitment made to the UNCRPD.

There are additional pieces of legislation that provide a framework and basis for disability inclusion action planning.

Commonwealth (Commonwealth legislation can be found at: www.comlaw.gov.au)• Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1993 (DDA) The Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1993 (DDA) recognises

the rights of people with disability to equality before the law and makes discrimination based on disability unlawful. It covers many aspects of life eg employment, education, provision of goods services and facilities.

• Disability (Access to Premises Standards –Building) Standards 2010 The Disability (Access to Premises-Buildings) Standards 2010 (Premises

Standards) aim to ensure greater and dignified access to and use of buildings by people with disability as well as to provide certainty to the building industry in meeting its obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

• National Disability Insurance Scheme The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a major reform that will

deliver a national system of disability support focused on the individual needs and choices of people with disability. The NDIS gives participants more choice and control over how, when and where supports are provided.

State (NSW Legislation can be found at: www.legislation.nsw.gov.au)• NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (ADA) The NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (ADA) relates to discrimination in

places of work, the public education system, delivery and goods and services including services such as banking, health care, property and night clubs.

• NSW Disability Inclusion Act (DIA) 2014. The NDS 2010-2020, developed in partnership by the Commonwealth, State,

Territory and Local Governments, sets out a national plan for improving life for Australians with disability, their families and carers, to support the commitment made to the UNCRPD. The NDS NSW Implementation Plan 2012-2014 was the NSW Government’s initial two-year strategy to promote the principles of the NDS.

Actions in the Implementation Plan that involve councils include:

• Implementing Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 Level AA

• Implementing local strategic plans and delivery programs

• Integrating NSW guidelines on universal design principles and Disability (Access to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010

• Improving the availability of accessible toilets

• Supporting access to sports and recreation facilities

• Identifying measures to encourage people with disability to stand for election to Local Government

• Increasing internal workforce diversity.

The majority of these actions have now been aligned with the aims and objectives of the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 and NSW Disability Inclusion Plan.

Other relevant legislation, standards and strategy documents includes:

• Carer (Recognition) Act 2010(NSW)

• Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002

• National Disability Strategy –NSW Implementation Plan 2012-2014

• Local Government Act 1993

• Local Government (General) Regulation 2005


About Our ShireUpper Hunter Shire is located in the northern end of the Hunter Region of NSW, about 250 kilometres north of Sydney. It is a predominantly rural area, encompassing over 8,000 square kilometres of primarily agricultural land which is used for grazing, horse studs and mixed farming. The main town is Scone, with smaller townships at Aberdeen, Merriwa and Murrurundi and a range of villages spread throughout the Shire. The population at the 2011 Census was 13,754 of which 3.9% were Aboriginal or Torres Islander people, and 88% of people born in Australia.

The 2011 Census recorded information on people who identified as needing help with mobility, self-care or communication due to disability or long term health conditions. It asked two questions that give an indication of the numbers of people with a disability. Table I shows the number of people who answered they needed assistance with core activities. The Census also gave some indication of the number of people in unpaid caring roles assisting a person with a disability.

AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS - 2011 CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSINGCORE ACTIVITY NEED FOR ASSISTANCE BY AGE BY SEX

AGE SCONE ABERDEEN MERRIWA MURRURUNDINON URBAN &

VILLAGESUPPER HUNTER

SHIRE TOTAL

0-4 years 4 0 0 0 3 7

5-14 years 14 6 3 4 11 38

15-19 years 6 0 0 0 9 15

20-24 years 3 0 3 0 2 8

25-34 years 6 0 0 3 4 13

35-44 years 10 7 6 0 5 28

45-54 years 15 12 6 7 11 51

55-64 years 21 6 9 13 34 83

65-74 years 29 8 11 7 21 76

75-84 years 74 11 21 16 20 142

85 years and over 81 8 22 18 18 147

TOTAL 263 58 81 68 138 608

Table 1: Core Activity Need for Assistance by Age by Sex


Upper Hunter Shire has just over 600 people who indicated they needed assistance with core activities, some 4.4% of a total population of 13,754. A further 677 did not give an indication, and 12,470 indicated they did not need assistance. The disability figures could therefore be higher.

The number of people needing assistance generally rises with age, as indicated in the graph below:

The number of carers in the Upper Hunter Shire (1,183 identifying in the census) are highest between 45-64 years (549), 35-44 years (205), 25-34 years (140), however there are also younger people providing care; 15-19 years (43) and 20-24 years (46). At aged 74 years and over there were still 75 people providing care.

The Australia Bureau of Statistics also estimated in 2012 that there was 18.1% of the Shire population who were persons with a disability living in a private dwelling.

A further indication of people with disabilities is reflected in mobility permit holders in Upper Hunter Shire. Roads & Maritime Services indicate that an average of 566 Permits for the Mobility Parking Scheme were issued in 2016, with an annual average of 524 issued to individuals, 31 to organisations and 11 on a temporary basis.

By postcode, the following number of permits were held:

• 2336 – 110 permits

• 2329 – 110 permits

• 2337 – 298 permits

• 2338 – 65 permits

The number of people impacted by a disability, or caring for someone with a disability in our Shire, is significant. Disabilities range from severe and profound to minimal effect on people’s lives. They often can’t be observed easily.

Figure 1: Number of People Needing Assistance by Age


• Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre – first point of contact for all abilities; range of resources and information for health, government , local and regional services; provide referral to services; advocate for and on behalf of residents and visitors; hire of mobility scooter – Ph 6545 2562

• Ability Links - Ability Links NSW Coordinators, known as Linkers, work closely with people with disability, their families and carers to support them to fulfil their goals, hopes and dreams. Linkers work with community to make sure that services, activities and events are welcoming and inclusive. Local linkers cover Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter LGA’s. - Ph 4905 0748

• Challenge Community Services – provides Challenge Day Choices which are designed to offer independence, develop life skills, build friendships and promote community access for people with a disability - Ph 6542 5480

• Endeavour Group Australia - Offers a variety of programs and services tailored to suit individual goals and aspirations including transition to work, respite options, employment services, residential services, community programs and employment of people with a disability as supported workers. Servicing Upper Hunter Shire - Ph 4990 2600

• Showstoppers Ability Services (registered NDIS Service) – provides support to artists / performers with a disability by providing opportunities to work with staff and mentors in a range of activities. NDIS Service Provider - Ph 0447 453 177

• Integratedliving – provides health services, residential services, recreational / social activities, in-home support, respite services and supply meals to help people living with a disability to maintain their independence - Ph 1300 782 896

• Disability Advocacy NSW – The service is funded to provide independent Advocacy, internal and external NDIS reviews and appeals by Commonwealth Department of Social Services (DSS) and NSW Ageing, Disability and Home Care. Outreach to the Upper Hunter area - Ph 4927 0111 or 1300 365 085

• NDIS – Local Area Co-ordinator (St Vincent De Paul Society) – delivering the NDIS to our community - Ph 0434 310 221

• TransCare Hunter – services include community transport, Meals on Wheels, social support, In-home assistance, Home Maintenance and social events - Ph 6545 3113

• Strathearn (Scone) – accommodation options including respite care, and a range of other services to support aged people and those with a disability, including basic home and grounds maintenance, cleaning, personal care, transport ,cooked hot meals into the community and in home nursing care - Ph 6545 1255

• Murravale Retirement Home Ltd (Murrurundi) - 25 bed aged care facility also provides respite care and manages home care packages - Ph 6546 6668

• Merriwa Low Income Housing – 1 x 2 bedroom unit, 1 x 3 bedroom unit – affordable accommodation for people in financial need. Supported by Upper Hunter Homelessness Support Group – Ph 6521 7000

• Merriwa Multipurpose Service – hospital which also provides residential aged care and respite for anyone with a disability – Ph 6532 5000

• Merriwa Non-Emergency Medical Transport Service (Merriwa District Health Association Inc) - low or no cost transport to medical appointments including Sydney and Newcastle - Patients with cancer travel free - Ph 6548 2653

• Merriwa Family Support Network – a support network for Merriwa individuals and families sharing information from local community, health services, schools, preschool, playgroup, parents and agencies that specialise in children and family services - Ph 6521 7000

• Hunter Valley Community Health – provides a range of clinics in Scone, Merriwa, Murrurundi and other areas including speech pathology, dietician, occupational therapy, child and family health nurse and counselling - Ph 6542 2050

• Upper Hunter Homeless Support Ltd – support service for people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, and domestic violence - Ph 6542 5051

• Upper Hunter Community Services (Muswellbrook based with outreach) - a range of services to support the community including mental health services, Muswellbrook Neighbourhood Services, Upper Hunter family support services, Out of School hours care, Toybox Mobile Outreach service, Aboriginal Family Worker, Community capacity building, Hunter Park Family Centre, Community and Youth Development Project - Ph 6542 3555

• Where there’s a Will Foundation – Not for profit charity that addresses Shire wide mental health issues by raising community awareness and skills and particularly supports schools to support students - Ph 0438 130 872

Some of the Disability related services offered in our Shire now


• Family and Carer Mental Health Program (One door Mental Health Carer Services) – delivering information, support, advocacy and education to families and carers, in partnership with NSW Mental Health - Ph 0466 453 078

• Family InSight - works with families with children aged 0-8 with programs designed to enhance the health, wellbeing and development of children and to support parents - Ph 6541 3000

• Hunter Prelude - work with families and young children from birth to 12 years of age with a disability or developmental delay to promote development, wellbeing and greater inclusion in their community. Outreach from Singleton - Ph 6571 4384 or for new referrals - Ph 4937 4549

• Early Links Inclusion Support Service - early childhood intervention support to families and their children birth – 8 years who are experiencing significant difficulties in 2 or more developmental areas - Ph 4934-3773

• Muswellbrook Neighbourhood Service - Providing emergency relief such as food and electricity vouchers; community development; needle and syringe exchange - Ph 6542 3555

• Brighter Futures Program (Benevolent Society) - Provides support to families who have a child under 9 years or are expecting a child and are vulnerable due to a range of personal issues, e.g. mental health, drug/alcohol use, lack of parenting skills, domestic violence. Outreach from Muswellbrook - Ph 6542 7700 or 6572 6100

• Family Mental Health Support Service (Benevolent Society) – An early intervention support program for vulnerable families with children 9-14 years and showing early signs of or at risk of developing mental illness - Ph 6542 7700 or 6572 6100

• Partners in Recovery (Benevolent Society) – works with adults who have severe or persistent mental health illnesses - Ph 6542 7700 or 6572 6100

• Murrurundi Meals on Wheels Inc - helping people to remain independent in their own homes by providing a hot meal service on weekdays supplied from the local hospital - Ph 6546 6200

• Upper Hunter Shire Council - directly provides a number of services that support inclusion - Ph 6540 1100.

These include:

• Early Childhood Care and Education services – Upper Hunter Early Learning Centre, Family Day Care and Scone Before & After School services

• Accessible Library services in 5 towns with a number providing home delivery services to housebound members.

• Accommodation Services:

- Gummun Hostel Merriwa- It is an aged care facility with an approved bed allocation of 16 beds - Ph 6521 7010

- Murrurundi Independent Living Units – 9 self-care units over 55’s and people with disabilities run by Upper Hunter Shire Council - Ph 6540 1350

- Merriwa Independent Living Units-8 self-care units for over 55’s and people with disabilities run by Upper Hunter Shire Council - Ph 6521 7000

• Youth Centres in Scone, Merriwa & Murrurundi

• Scone Seniors Centre, and local halls & community centres

• Limited transport availability through a small bus based at Merriwa

• All Abilities Futsal and Gynmastics

Care has been taken in the development of this list, but if you find errors or relevant services have been missed, please contact Kerri Cone on 6540 1141 or email [email protected] with details.


Upper Hunter Shire Council works in many ways in our community, however, it has to work within Government legislation, budgets and under the leadership of elected local representatives. It also works co-operatively with State and Federal Governments and with other Councils.

It has a range of roles in delivering outcomes for the community:

• A provider of a range of community facilities including halls, some aged and disabled housing, and an aged care hostel, sporting fields, swimming pools, airport and recreational parks and gardens to meet the cultural, social and recreational needs of the community

• A direct service provider of a range of services and programs including community bus (Merriwa), five libraries including a library service for housebound people, childcare and youth services

• Community Leadership to identify key community issues and to mobilise change through advocacy, facilitation and negotiation

• A Collaborator that is involved in partnerships with other levels of Government and local community organisations on a range of projects that benefit the community.

• A Planner to research and provide information, consultation with community stakeholders and develop and evaluate plans for the community

• A capacity builder for the community, enhancing and supporting skills and information development in community organisations and building networks between professionals and community groups

• Small funding programs- grants to improve community halls and grants to enhance cultural activities

• Staff to assist community organisations prepare and apply for Federal and State grants

There is a lot to do so Council must plan well ahead for the work it does and prioritise projects. This sometimes means that worthy ideas and projects cannot be achieved by Council, or even within partnerships between Council and community organisations. Sometimes they are outside the scope of Council’s role, or are the responsibility of other levels of Government or other organisations, however Council can advocate on behalf of the community to other levels of Government.

What Council can do


Consultations:

• Community meetings in Scone (17 May 2016), Merriwa (17 May 2016) and Murrurundi (16 May 2016) with guest speaker Nicholas Gleeson (blind explorer and adventurer)

• Presentations and consultations with the Community Services Committee (9 February, 12 April, 14 June 2016 and 11 April 2017)

• Discussion at the UHSC Managers and Coordinators Meetings

• Consultation with some key providers of disability services eg Ability Links Staff (1 November 2016), Showstoppers Performing Arts Company for People with Disabilities Inc - volunteers and members with a disability (23 November 2016)

• Regional Consultation on Disability Employment Issues at Singleton with HR (15 November 2016)

• Staff survey February 2017

• Community Survey and Publicity February/March 2017 with 63 respondents

What we did to prepare this Plan

• Form a S355 Access and Inclusion Committee to provide specialist and user advice to Council.

• Improve paths and pathways of travel in the Shire for ease of access.

• Increase the number of toilets and change tables in the Shire.

• Encourage businesses and services to improve access into their facilities.

• Ensure access into Council owned and managed facilities is reviewed and improved where needed.

• Review Council’s recruitment procedures to remove any barriers for people with a disability to apply and compete.

• Provide training and awareness raising for Council staff and the community about people with a disability in relation to inclusion and access.

• Review and improve Council’s methods of communication to ensure that people with disabilities are able to access its information.

• Promote positive recognition about people with disabilities.

Priority Actions for the next 4 years


Our Strategies and Action Plan 2017-2021

FOCUS AREA 1: ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIOURS

WHAT THE ISSUE IS ABOUT The attitudes and behaviours of the general community towards people with disability have been described as the single greatest barrier to full access and inclusion. Attitudes and behaviour permeate all aspects of life. Consultation to date has identified that attitudes towards people with disability are often determined by ignorance, fear or lack of opportunity to interact. Developing positive attitudes involves increasing awareness and changing negative perceptions over time. This is a long term goal that may need to be dealt with in stages.

WHAT THE COMMUNITY TOLD US

We need to raise the awareness of our staff so they can be more empathic and provide more appropriate services for people with disabilities; we need to raise awareness in the general community about people with disabilities; our media -social and hardcopy needs to support raising awareness and presenting positive role models who have a disability; we need to highlight the achievements of people with disabilities; we need to provide information for people with disabilities about facilities and activities in our Shire in a range of accessible forms; we need to consult or have access to specialist staff; we need to support the work of other disability services in the Shire.

STRATEGY ACTION KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS RESPONSIBILITY TIMINGCSP 2027 REFERENCE

Provide training for current staff on people with disabilities (also in Meaningful Employment section)

Incorporate Disability Awareness training into Induction programs and annual training opportunities for current staff

Number of people receiving Disability Awareness training per year

Manager Human Resources and Customer Services Coordinator

Short Term 1 year

G1 CS1 G1 CS3 G1 CS4

Raise the Community Awareness of People with a Disability

Seek partnerships with a range of disability organisations in Shire to undertake awareness raising events or projects

At least one targeted event is held each year to highlight inclusion and diversity.

Manager Community Services

Each year G1 CS2 G1 CS4

Digital and hardcopy media promote positive information about people with disabilities

Log of media releases, advertisements and other Council documentation

Communications Coordinator

Short Term 1 year

G2 CS8 G8 CS33

Council documents include positive references to people with disabilities

Samples of Council documents referencing people with disabilities (eg pictures of people with disabilities included)


Medium Term 2-3 years

G8 CS32

Peak Council documents are accessible in suitable forms for the community

Samples of large print documents, website accessibility, easy read documents, and log of requests


Short Term 1-2 years

G2 CS8 G8 CS33


Improve the collation and distribution of Information about disability organisations, services and events in our Shire

Develop a Council brochure with information for people with disabilities eg access maps, accessible toilets, accessible shops & services etc

At least one document prepared for each main town.


At least one brochure per year is developed and distributed

G2 CS8

Update Council website directory with information about Disability organisations and services

Number of entries is increased. Manager Community Services

Annually G2 CS8

Focus on positive contributions by highlighting achievements of people with a disability

Run an annual event or display in partnership with disability organisations

An event or display is organised annually


Annually G1 CS2 G1 CS4

Encourage the recognition of people with disabilities and disability services and organisation through Council Awards

Number of disability related nominations received by Council for Awards eg Australia Day Awards, Volunteer Awards etc


Annually G8 CS32

Support the work of other disability organisations or services in our Shire

Council representation at meetings and events, assistance with grant seeking, provision of Council's staff expertise, advocacy and networking

Evidence of organisations supported through reports to Council



G1 CS2 G1 CS3 G1 CS4 G2 CS7

Increase consultation with people with a disability and professional workers in the field of disability (Also in Liveable Communities section)

S355 Access and Inclusion Committee recruited with infrastructure services and community services representatives on the Committee

New Access and Inclusion Committee formed in Council S355 Committees


Short Term 1 year

G2 CS8


FOCUS AREA 2: CREATING LIVEABLE COMMUNITIES

WHAT THE ISSUE IS ABOUT Creating liveable communities will focus attention and resources on the elements of community life that most people desire. Creating liveable communities for people with disability is more than modifying the physical environment, it covers areas such as accessible housing, access to transport, community recreation, social engagement and universal design.


We need to improve our pathways of travel and the paths themselves; we need to work on transport options for people with a disability getting around our Shire; we need to look at how we can improve access into shops and services in our towns; we need to increase the number of accessible toilets and adult change tables in key areas of the central business districts; we need to improve access to our buildings ; we need to provide more parking for people with a disability; we need to consult more with people with a disability and experts working in the disability design field; we need to improve access to our pools and other community recreation areas and facilities.


Improve paths and pathways of travel

Review central business district paths in conjunction with the Town Revitalisation Committee and Access and Inclusion Committee to set priority works

A prioritised list of works is developed by staff representatives in consultation with the Access and Inclusion Committee with people with disabilities

Manager Strategic Assets Short Term 1-2 years

G6 CS25

Improve pathways of travel between prioritized major services in conjunction with Access and Inclusion Committee for people using Scooters and other disability mobility aids

At least one additional pathway is implemented to each town CBD

Manager Strategic Assets Medium Term 2-4 years

G2 CS25

Investigate current transport options and support improvements if needed

Liaise with current transport providers to determine where further provision is needed

A meeting is convened to determine gaps in services and possible improvements



G7 CS29

Review the use of the Merriwa Community Bus

A report is prepared for presentation to Senior Management on current use and options for improved usage

Manager Community Services and Merriwa Community Services Worker


G1 CS1 G1 CS3


Improve disability access into businesses

Raise awareness of access issues for businesses with business organisations and community

Documentation is distributed to all businesses eg "Good access is good business"

Manager Business Enterprise & Tourism

Short Term 1 year

G1 CS3 G9 CS42

Meeting convened with Chambers/Progress Associations in each town to highlight issue (representatives with a disability to be included)

Manager Business Enterprise & Tourism and Representatives from the Access and Inclusion Committee


G1 CS3 G9 CS42

Apply requirement to ensure footpath entry into businesses where footpath improvements and CBD upgrades have been planned

Record of applications where requirements applied.

Health Building & Compliance and Manager Business Enterprise & Tourism

Continue to enforce

G1 CS1 G1 CS3

Progressively upgrade Council owned assets to meet Access to Premises Standards or relevant best practice approach

Review Council halls and community centres in regard to standards

A set of prioritised improvements is developed

Manager Community Services & Building Maintenance



Plan to address priority items At least 2 priority items are addressed

Manager Community Services & Building Maintenance


G6 CS24 G6 CS25

Review Council libraries in regard to standards


Manager Community Services & Library Co-ordinator


G6 CS24 G6 CS25

At least 2 priority areas are addressed

Manager Community Services & Library Co-ordinator


G6 CS24 G6 CS25

Review Council pools in consultation with the Access and Inclusion Committee




At least 2 priority areas are addressed

Manager Strategic Assets Medium Term 2-4 years



Increase the number of accessible toilets and adult change tables in key areas of CBDs

Review current location of accessible toilets in Shire and prioritise plans for further toilets and change tables in consultation with Access and Inclusion Committee

Toilets & change tables located; Priorities established; Toilets placed on Accessible Toilets list


G1 CS1 G1 CS3 G2 CS5 G2 CS8 G4 CS15 G6 CS25

Increase no of accessible toilets & adult change tables in Shire-seek grant funding

Install new, or make accessible, at least one new facility each year

Manager Strategic Assets 2-4 years G1 CS1 G1 CS3 G2 CS5 G2 CS8

Increase number of mobility parking spaces in CBDs

Review current mobility parking places in conjunction with Access and Inclusion Committee

Develop plans for future disabled parking, where possible


G1 CS1 G1 CS3 G2 CS5 G2 CS8 G4 CS15 G6 CS25

Increase Consultation with people with disabilities and professional workers in the field of disability

S355 Access and Inclusion Committee recruited with Infrastructure services, Tourism/economic development and community services representatives on the Committee

New Access and Inclusion Committee formed in Council S355 Committees


Short Term 1 year

G1 CS2


FOCUS AREA 3: SUPPORTING ACCESS TO MEANINGFUL EMPLOYMENT

WHAT THE ISSUE IS ABOUT The Government Sector Employment Act 2013 (GSE Act) requires the integration of workforce diversity, including the employment of people with a disability, into workforce planning. This legislation supports workforce diversity obligations and processes across the government sector. Employment and economic security for most people are closely related. Employment contributes to feelings of self-worth, social interaction and mental health, and increases opportunities to support individual choice and control. Employment rates for people with disability are significantly lower than those without disability across all sectors. People with disability experience multiple barriers at all stages of the employment process, ranging from inaccessible interview venues, lack of reasonable adjustments to the work environment, poor career planning opportunities, rigid role descriptions and online testing that may place applicants at a disadvantage. These factors reduce their opportunities to gain and retain employment. While there are many aspects to consider in executing a diversity and inclusion employment agenda, most benefit will come from taking an ‘inclusion by design’ approach. That is, employers and managers will maximise their ability to employ and retain a diverse workforce if they build inclusion into work design, workforce strategy and system-level decision making (as opposed to simply making reasonable adjustments to accommodate persons with disability on a case-by-case basis).


We should employ more people with disabilities where possible and adapt the environment and work conditions to the individuals special needs; we should ensure our employment systems enable people with disabilities to apply and be considered for positions; we should provide opportunities for people with disabilities to increase their employment skills; we should set an example to other businesses in our Shire and promote the employment of people with disabilities; we should provide training for our current staff to raise its awareness of dealing with people with disabilities.


Ensure that Council's HR Policies reflect enthusiasm and opportunities for meaningful employment of people with disabilities through its policy of diversity & inclusion workforce planning

Review Councils procedures in recruitment by an independent body

Any procedures that create barriers to employment are identified and addressed. New disability friendly procedures are identified and implemented

Manager Human Resources


G8 CS38

Increase opportunities for people with a disability to gain work experience

Provide information to managers about people with disabilities and encourage consideration of traineeship, volunteering and working with other disability and employment networks and organisations, and schools to provide work experience

Report on achievements Manager Human Resources




Provide training for current staff on people with disabilities

Incorporate Disability Awareness training into induction programs and annual training opportunities for current staff

Number of people receiving Disability Awareness training per year

Manager Human Resources and Customer Services Coordinator

Short Term 1 year

G1 CS1 G3 CS4

Promote employment of people with disabilities to the general community

Highlight successful examples of employment of people with disabilities in the Council

Maintain a log of promotions around people with disabilities

Manager Human Resources and Customer Services Coordinator / Comms team


G1 CS3 G5 CS20

FOCUS AREA 4: IMPROVING ACCESS TO SERVICES THROUGH BETTER SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES

WHAT THE ISSUE IS ABOUT A common issue for people with disability is the difficulty in navigating systems and processes to access the services and supports they need in the community. Some of these difficulties stem from the quality of service and training of front line personnel, the systems and processes required to access services, and the lack of accessible options for communicating, accessing information or providing input or feedback. There is often confusion about what services are provided across the three levels of government, and there is frequent repetition of information to be provided to public authorities and services.


We need to improve our documentation, digital media and communication methods so information can be can be accessed by more people with disabilities; we need to improve opportunities for inclusion of people with disabilities in community activities such as sports, workshops, and community events; we need to continue to communicate face to face with the community (as the DPOP consultations have been appreciated) and build further links with disability organisations; we need to ensure that people with disabilities are represented on Council committees.


Ensure Council communications can be accessed by people with disabilities

Review website design to ensure it is WCAG 2.0 compliant (web content accessibility guidelines)

Review undertaken and any deficiencies are adjusted


Medium Term 2-3 year

G2 CS8

Review options for having key documents in a choice of accessible formats eg large print, braille, spoken word, plain english language

Review undertaken and priority documents identified. Consultations with Access and Inclusion Committee


Short Term 1 year

G2 CS8

Priority documents are trialled Communications Coordinator


G2 CS8


Increase opportunities for people with disabilities to be involved in Council and Council sponsored community activities

Partner with Ability Links to utilise its new Accessibility and Inclusion Event space

Number of times Council books the package

Manager Community Services and Manager Economic Development & Tourism


G1 CS1 G1 CS2 G1 CS3 G1 CS4

Ensure access and inclusion issues are considered when events are planned

Number of media releases/advertisements indicating access and inclusion has been considered and included

Communications Coordinator; Manager Community Services; Manager Economic Development & Tourism


G1 CS1 G1 CS3

Apply for funding to run targeted activities for people with disabilities, or that enable inclusion into main stream activities

At least one inclusion and access related grant is submitted each year.

Manager Community Services and Manager Economic Development & Tourism

Short Term - annually


Establish and seek nominations for an Access and Inclusion Committee of Council

Committee is established. Manager Community Services

Short Term 1 year

G7 CS28 G8 CS30

When seeking nominations to all Council S355 Committees, advertising promotes opportunities for people with disabilities to join or participate

Number of Committee advertisement/ flyers/press releases advising that people with disabilities are encouraged to nominate for membership


When S355 positions are filled during the term of Council

G7 CS28 G8 CS30 G8 CS34


A variety of risks may hinder or prevent the actions of this Disability Inclusion Action Plan including:

• An inability to encourage people with a disability, carers or others who can give an effective voice to the needs of people with disabilities, to join Council S355 Committees.

Risk Management: Seek cooperation of local services providers and carers in encouraging participation; provide good media coverage of achievements

• Paths, ramps, toilets, change tables: do not meet Australian standards or the needs of people who may be using them.

Risk Management: Ensure compliance with Australian Standards and consultation with the Access and Inclusion Committee

• Inadequate budgets for disability inclusion improvements. Risk Management: Prioritise works; seek grants; review budgets

• Non Council groups may not be willing to improve physical infrastructure/access.

Risk Management: Provide free information relating to Australian standards and awareness raising of disability needs; recognise positive improvements and changes

• No appropriate employment, work experience or volunteering positions become available in Council

Risk Management: Maintain connections with other employment agencies; review wording of jobs to encourage applications from people with disabilities; review jobs in regard to modifications that can be made to accommodate people with disabilities

• Council information may not be up to date or in a form accessible to people with different types of disabilities

Risk Management: Develop a schedule for regular review eg Community Directory; Liaise with other Councils to see what actions they have undertaken for improvement

• Council staff not committed to Disability Inclusion Action Plan Risk Management: Leadership provided by Senior Management, Managers and

Coordinators

Risk Assessment

MonitoringThe Director of Environment and Community Services will monitor the overall plan and its implementation. The timelines indicate completion of actions. The process will be monitored and evaluated through the Integrated Planning and Reporting cycle

ReportingAnnual reporting will be undertaken on outcomes and achievements, and be made available on Council’s website. A report will also be provided to the Department of Family and Community Services.

ReviewAnnual review of the plan will be undertaken in line with the Integrated Planning and Reporting cycle and in consultation with the new Access and Inclusion Committee.

An audit, evaluation and review of the Plan will be conducted at the end of the four year term. The Access and Inclusion Committee will undertake further planning at the conclusion of this plan, to determine priorities and needs for ongoing work from 2021.

Monitoring, Reporting and Reviewing


Council would like to thank the community members and organisations who took part in documenting the needs of Upper Hunter Shire area and provided personal stories, and many ideas for improving Inclusion of people with disabilities in our community.

There will always be people who were unable to take part in the development of this plan, however, it is viewed as a document for guidance and to stimulate creative thinking and awareness raising, and community members are welcome to continue to provide input to Council staff during the next four years.

Acknowledgement

Kerri Cone, Manager Community Services, Upper Hunter Shire Council Phone: 6540 1141 Email: [email protected] Address: Upper Hunter Shire Council, PO Box 208, Scone NSW 2337

Community Services Staff are located at each office of Upper Hunter Shire Council. Contact them by ringing Phone (02) 6540 1100.

Who to Contact

• NSW Disability Inclusion Plan – Dept Family & Community Services 2015. www.facs.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/file/0007/313495/FACS_NSW_DIP_080316.pdf

• AHRC - Annual Report 2009-2010: Complaint Statistics. (2010). Retrieved June 12, 2014, from Australian Human Rights Commission: www.humanrights.gov.au/publications/complaint-statistics-annual-report-2009-2010-australian-human-rights-commission-0

• Australian Bureau of Statistics (2012). 4430.0 - Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Summary of Findings. Canberra: Australian Bureau of Statistics.

• Australian Network on Disability (2014). Business Benefits. Sydney, NSW, Australia.

• Deloitte Access Economics. (2011). The Economic Benefits of Increasing Employment for People with Disability.

• International Association of Public Participation. (n.d.) Public Participation Spectrum. Wollongong, NSW, Australia.

• OECD. (2010). Sickness, Disability and Work: Breaking the Barriers. Paris: OECD.

• PricewaterhouseCoopers. (2011). Disability expectations: investing in a better life, a stronger Australia. Sydney: PricewaterhouseCoopers.

• World Bank. (2013, August 15). Social Accountability and the Demand for Good Governance.

• NSW Disability Inclusion Action Planning Guidelines –Local Government NSW, November 2015

• http://upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/do-it-online/say-it/notice-of-public-exhibition-draft-community-strategic-plan-csp-2027.aspx

References

Documents

Upper Hunter Shire Council DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION ... · 1. I am pleased to present Upper Hunter Shire Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 2017-2021. The Plan demonstrates