Navigating disability support can be overwhelming. For Angela, Visionwest became more than a service provider – it became a place of understanding, strength, and guidance.
Angelaโs connection with Visionwest began over two decades ago when her eldest child was a toddler.
“I used to go to Mainly Music at Visionwest. Heโs now 23. Years later, she returned through a GP referral. “It was one of two places suggested, and I chose Visionwest.” That decision shaped her familyโs journey.
A long journey to the right support
Angela is a mother of two. Her eldest is neurodivergent and lives with ADHD. Her 10-year-old daughter has Down Syndrome and other complex health issues. The road to finding adequate and appropriate support was long and painful.
The beginning was so rough. I had nothing. Every time I tried to ask, I was told not to.
But she kept going.
Itโs still a journey in progress. Weโre getting through the days as they come. Iโm new to this. Our journey wonโt stop until I stop breathing.
Visionwest became a place of comfort for Angela.
A new chapter with Visionwest
The staff made me feel really good and comfortable. There was a lot I didnโt understand due to processing disorders, but theyโve always been supportive. They put up with my quirky way of doing things, and it just makes things easier.
The difference this wrapround support has made has been profound.
Itโs made a real positive impact on my life and my childrenโs lives. Happy mum, happy kids. Iโve never had support like this. Without it, my mental health would be extremely bad.
Angela also experiences firsthand, every day, how her children have benefitted from this support.
There are so many things out there you can do, but you canโt afford to. Without support, they miss out.
Visionwest walks alongside you
Angela is passionate about Individualised Funding, especially for parents and families who feel like they are struggling alone to live with a disability.
Donโt be discouraged when someone says no. Visionwest will help fight for you. Keep pushing, keep asking questions, and donโt take no for an answer.
Now, sheโs an advocate.
I always say, โGo to Visionwest. Theyโre like a big family who Iโm grateful to have in my life.โ
Individualised Funding at Visionwest
Individualised Funding (IF) is a flexible way to manage government-funded disability support. Following an assessment, you receive a budget that you can use to organise your support in a way that works best for you.
With Individualised Funding you can:
- Choose your support โ select support workers or family members that suit you
- Choose when and how youโre supported โ fit support around your life and routines
- Get personalised support and guidance โ to help you manage your funding
You can use Individualised Funding for…
- Personal Care: Showering, dressing, grooming and toileting.
- Home Help: Meal preparation, shopping and laundry.
- Respite Care: Give your usual carer time to rest.
- Community Involvement: Support to get out and about.
With Visionwest, youโll have a dedicated IF Coach to support you every step of the way. Your Coach will take the time to understand you, your goals and what is important to you. They will work alongside you and your family/ whฤnau to create a plan that suits your needs. Our aim is to make Individualised Funding simple, flexible and easy to use, so you can focus on living the life you choose.
You can choose Visionwest as your IF Host to help you manage and use your funding.
Visionwest Individualised Funding is available in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua & Taupล.
