Facing Forward: Clients Have Their Say
This year the voices of Sylvanvale clients played an important role in improving how we work, and ensuring we are meeting the needs of those we support.
The Facing Forward Client Consultation Committee was formed by the Sylvanvale Board of Directors. Meetings are held every two (2) months, with attendees from Sydney and the Blue Mountains attending in person and online via Teams.
Facing Forward provides the chance for clients to have a say in how we plan, deliver and communicate our services. It is also an opportunity for the viewpoints of the people we support to be heard and to have a positive impact on other people who use our services, now and into the future.
“The Facing Forward Client Consultation Committee is a direct voice to our Board. It ensures we continuously improve our services and keep the people we support at the heart of every decision we make,” said David Rafferty, Sylvanvale Director and Chair of the Committee.
Supporting clients to participate on the committee is also critical to the success of the Facing Forward. This includes the support of a Participation Support Facilitator, Catherine Maitland.
“Meeting agendas and minutes are produced in Easy Read format to ensure clients understand the governance processes of the committee and can contribute to discussions meaningfully,” said Catherine. “We also facilitate brainstorming sessions before each committee meeting to work through the upcoming topics. This allows clients time to prepare, consider, and reflect on the agenda items in ways that work for them.”
At the first meeting of 2023/24, discussions took place as to what topics should be on the agenda for Facing Forward throughout the year. The committee expressed a strong interest in receiving updates about the Disability Royal Commission and NDIS Review, and how any outcomes may impact them. Consultation on the experiences of clients was also a priority, and ways for Sylvanvale to ensure client safety and quality engagement. The committee reviewed the purpose, vision and values of Sylvanvale, with members sharing their own experiences of the values in action.
A review of the organisations Emergency Management and Continuity Planning resulted in updates to Emergency Procedures, and new Easy Read formats of important information. Clients also had input on the development of Sylvanvale’s brand, sharing examples of what the organisation does well and opportunities for improvement.
New friendships and social connections have also been formed, with the committee asking for more opportunities to get together in person. Representatives from the Blue Mountains recently travelled to Cronulla for a Facing Forward meeting and to enjoy some time together at the beach. High tea in the Blue Mountains has also occurred!
Families and carers of Sylvanvale clients were also given opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback. Previously a Family and Carer Consultation Committee, a new forum format was introduced this year to create opportunities for more people to be involved. The Facing Forward Family and Carer Forums were held online. They provided families with information on National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reforms and shared organisational updates from Sylvanvale. The Forums are planned to take place three (3) times a year.
