What is the Association for Children with a Disability (ACD) and what do you do there?

Debby:
We are parents supporting parents! Our organisation is unique in that most of the staff are also parents of children with disabilities ourselves, so we have that lived experience of disability.

ACD provides information, support and advocacy for families with a child or young adult with any type of disability or developmental delay across Victoria. Families can get help from our parent support team by calling our free telephone support service.

We have resources on many topics, the most popular being ACD’s NDIS Planning Workbook which helps families prepare for their NDIS planning meeting.

ACD’s training and education team run workshops and information sessions.

In fact, that’s my job – I am a Community Educator, and present at workshops – at the moment our main focus is the workshops helping families prepare for the NDIS. I also facilitate a few peer support groups.

What advice do you have for people just starting their journey as a parent of a child with disability?

Don’t let the disability define who your child is! They are a child first and the disability is only one part of who they are. This is really hard to do when you are trying to process new information, meeting doctors, therapists and you may still be feeling loss and grief. It can get overwhelming dealing with everything. Sometimes it helps to refocus on your child, their likes and wants and strengths.

How important is peer support, and how can parents connect with peers?

You may become disconnected and isolated from family and friends when you have a child with a disability. Having opportunities to meet other people through peer support groups is vital in helping parents to connect with others who may be experiencing similar journeys. You can develop new friendships and you can gain strength and support from others who have similar experiences.

For more information about ACD’s workshops, peer support groups and NDIS planning workbook, visit the NDIS Support page on their website.