$588,000 independent living boost for people with a disability

Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay welcomed yesterday's announcement of a $588,000 expansion to a program that helps people with a disability live more independently in the community.
The Sunnyfield New England Independent Living Support Initiative (ILSI) is an outcome of a two-year pilot program that aims to support people with a disability to remain in their own homes, especially those currently living with aged carers.
Mr Torbay said programs such as this were integral to promote independent living through skills programs and practical support in-home.
"There are people in our community with mild to moderate disabilities who, through programs such as the ILSI are able to remain in their own homes and live very independently," Mr Torbay said. "This funding will allow Sunnyfield to provide long-term, ongoing support to people living with a disability.
"Service providers will be able to work directly with ILSI participants for up to 35-hours each week, teaching skills such cooking, money management, shopping and personal health and safety.
"I understand that the clients will be selected from throughout the New England, with the services to begin sometime in March."
The NSW Government have provided $4.26 million toward the ILSI program this year as part of the Stronger Together 2 $2 billion plan to expand and improve disability services in NSW.
More information about the ILSI program is available by contacting Down Syndrome NSW – Independent Living Support Initiative on (02) 9841 4414 or visit the website at www.ilsi.net.au