Intework aims to provide innovative and creative programs designed to suit each person.  We are committed to providing services that offer exciting opportunities, increase self esteem, confidence, personal and social skills.

Intework’s Respite services operate as a complimentary extension of the Lifeskills Program allowing Intework to provide a flexible and responsive ‘mixed model’ approach including centre based activities and community based respite services.   All of our services are developed with a person-by person approach and tailored to meet the needs of each person and their carer/s.

Intework prides itself on providing respite options that are responsive and flexible to the needs of carers but importantly also provide the person with a disability a stimulating and enjoyable opportunity.  We emphasise choice, flexibility and outcomes for people with disabilities and their carers as well as strong partnerships with the local community, other service providers and community groups.

What can respite at Intework provide?

• Inclusion

• Purpose

• Respect

• Fun and Friendship

• Choice

Respite at Intework will provide a safe and appropriate service, delivered by professionally trained staff based on individual needs.  Each client will be treated with respect and a partnership agreement with be developed with clients/families to ensure everyone gets the break they need.  Following the assessment and registration process Intework provides a planned and emergency respite service seven days a week.  Respite services provide an enjoyable experience for adults with disabilities whilst giving their carers a chance to recharge!

Respite care provides an occasional break for the parent and/or unpaid caregiver. Family members who spend a lot of time caring for a loved one sometimes experience frustration, grief, depression, anxiety, and/or isolation. You may need to take a well-deserved break from the responsibilities of caring for someone with a disability. However, not all caregivers experience stress, and hence, respite services are also provided to families to attend business meetings, medical emergencies, planned medical care or attend a function.

What can our respite service provide?

As part of the Lifeskills program we offer many choices from a broad array of highly individualised options designed specifically to meet carers and the person with a disabilities unique needs.

Activities offered for the individual in respite

- Single or group activities which promote social, educational and recreational needs.

- Centre-based activities may include pool, computing and internet access, performance and drama group, cooking programs, board games, watching movies, music and craft.

- Outings may include going out for lunch or dinner, listening to a band, singing up a storm at karaoke, cheering on your team at the footy, or having a round of mini golf.

Opportunities

• For parents and carers: access to a carer resource area that is full of information and ideas to assist with caring responsibilities. Staff on hand to assist with any queries and offer guidance to access the wide array of supports available in the local community. Opportunity for carer support groups to book space for get-togethers.

• For people with a disability: a variety of avenues for personal development. Opportunities to join in non-competitive personally challenging activities.

• Art and creativity groups: a chance to develop your creative side by exploring different mediums and work on unique art pieces, craft and scrap booking. Workshops held regularly as well as support to attend other community based art programs and to display work in other community exhibitions.

• Theatre arts and performance groups: opportunities to try new things as well as work on ideas for potential performances and create a unique performance. A great avenue to get together to experience, performances, music, dance, drama and self expression and possibly local theatre productions, music and movement.

• Out and about: weekend and evening outings, meet new friends and catch up with old ones!! This group participates in a wide range of activities that are happening in the community, Activities can include exhibition openings, restaurants, movies, theatre, bands, festivals, speedway the list is endless and we are always open to new ideas.

• Outdoor recreation: sailing, surfing, canoeing, fishing, bushwalking and caving. As these activities mostly are based outdoors it also gives people the opportunity to learn about nature and the environment while providing healthy lifestyle choices.

• Communication and technology: ‘Cyber Cafe’ is a computer lab offering 4 networked computers – all with internet access. Available to carers and people with disabilities. Opportunities to learn computer skills and safely explore the world wide web! A wide variety of adaptive equipment is on hand as well as an excellent range of software that covers a variety of client needs. The suite offers: touch screens, big keys keyboard, track ball mouse, compic, boardmaker and JAWS program.

• Lounge Areas: TV, audio and video entertainment facilities