Update – Barkuma will no longer provide Support Coordination beyond 28 June 2024.
Navigating the world with a disability can present unique challenges, but with the right support and guidance, individuals can achieve their goals and lead fulfilling lives.
Meet Skye, a 24-year-old woman with a learning disability, who is supported by Barkuma to achieve her goals.Skye’s journey showcases how Barkuma’s person-centred approach has helped her overcome barriers and achieve her aspirations.
Understanding the Participant’s Goals
At the heart of Barkuma’s Support Coordination is understanding the participant’s goals and aspirations. Skye’s daily life involves working at Bedford Industries, engaging in activities like watching movies, playing games, shopping, cooking and playing basketball. Additionally, she cares for her unwell father.
Barkuma’s Support Coordination involves identifying Skye’s short, medium and long-term goals, including her desire to remain employed at Bedford, increase her confidence and mental health, build friendships, access education opportunities, find suitable housing and develop routines for independent living.
Tailoring Support to Unique Needs
Barkuma’s Support Coordination focuses on tailoring the assistance to Skye’s unique needs. For example, when Skye encountered workplace issues, her Support Coordinator, Verity worked collaboratively in supporting Skye to resolve the challenges. Recognising her goal to improve her mental health, Verity connected Skye to a nearby psychologist, resulting in regular attendance and progress. To foster friendships, Verity linked Skye to an inclusive basketball program, allowing her to engage in a community activity she enjoys.
Creating Opportunities for Growth
Skye’s journey also highlights how Barkuma creates opportunities for growth and skill-building. Verity found a new home for Skye that was affordable and safe. She also got grants for important things like appliances. Verity helped Skye with household tasks by connecting her to an occupational therapist and mentoring service for everyday help. By successfully sourcing a Community Housing property, Skye can grow and develop her independence.
Holistic Health and Wellbeing
Barkuma’s Support Coordination extends to holistic health and wellbeing. Skye receives assistance with hydrotherapy and physical therapy. These therapies are crucial for her overall well-being and her ability to perform daily tasks and work effectively.
Collaboration and Person-Centred Approach
Barkuma’s success lies in its collaborative approach and person-centred philosophy. The organisation collaborates closely with Skye’s family, informal supports, service providers and the community to ensure a comprehensive support network. This method acknowledges that everyone has different needs and successful coordination requires using various resources.
Measuring Success and Looking Ahead
Barkuma’s commitment to measuring success is evident in its continuous monitoring, feedback gathering and goal reassessment. Barkuma stays effective and relevant by talking openly with participants, families, caregivers, and service providers.
Envisioning the Future
Looking ahead, Barkuma is actively working to enhance its Support Coordination services. The organization can now help more people with complex needs by offering Specialist Support Coordination. This evolution reflects Barkuma’s dedication to adapting and growing to best serve individuals on their journey towards greater independence and fulfilment.
Skye’s experience with Barkuma shows how person-centred Support Coordination can make a difference. Skye’s experience with Barkuma demonstrates the impact of person-centred Support Coordination. Barkuma understands Skye’s goals, addresses her specific challenges, and builds a supportive network. This assistance enables people with disabilities to overcome obstacles and live fulfilling lives.