Minister for Disability Services Ray Williams visited Settlement Services International in Goulburn on July 10 to commend the ‘Linkers’ and participants on their effort to ensure residents are connected to their local community.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Ability Links is a $45 million NSW Government initiative delivered by staff known as ‘Linkers’, who help people with disability, as well as their carers and family to build on their strengths and skills in order to achieve their goals.
“The program has been an overwhelming success to date, which is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of ‘Linkers’ right across NSW,” Mr Williams said.
“This year alone, more than 20 people with disability, their families and carers have been supported in Goulburn.”
Minister Williams met with local resident Melisa (surname withheld), who has benefited from the program and received support to find more part-time work for her daughter.
"I arrived in Goulburn not knowing the area and it was a very isolating time,” Melissa said.
“The Linker gave me information about the local area, which made things so much better for me. One of the biggest finds was accessing the internet at the library, this has helped with finding work for my daughter.”
Member for Goulburn Pru Goward congratulated all those involved for their efforts in providing quality disability services in the local area.
“Ability Links is a fantastic program, empowering local people with disability, their families and carers to plan for the future and realise their own aspirations,” Ms Goward said.
Over 82,000 people with disability, their families and carers have benefited from Ability Links across NSW since its inception.
According to independent reports by Urbis, the program returns three dollars in economic and social benefits for every dollar invested.
To find out more about Ability Links, please visit: www.abilitylinksnsw.org.au