New Stones Corner program provides path to independence

A service helping people with an intellectual disability to live more independently in the community was officially opened at Stones Corner today.

Stirling Hinchliffe, Parliamentary Secretary to Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt, said the My Life program was a grass-roots service making a real difference to the quality of everyday life for people with a disability.

“My Life gives people with an intellectual or psychiatric disability the skills they need to be able to live as independently as possible,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“It helps people improve their lives by teaching them to cook and shop, handle money, prepare a budget, manage their time, improve their social skills and generally take better care of themselves. It is community work at its very best.”

My Life is operated by Westside Community Services, which has received recurrent funding from Disability Services Queensland of $124,000 for the new Stones Corner service and $126,120 for its Oxley operation, which opened as a part-time service three years ago.

“The My Life program has gone from strength to strength,” Mr Pitt said.

“More than 80 people with an intellectual or psychiatric disability will now benefit each year from the My Life program across these two centres.

“My Life does what non-government organisations do best: overcoming challenges through their understanding of local needs and harnessing local resources and opportunities.

“It has received help and cooperation from banks, supermarkets, dieticians, transport operators and emergency services. These organisations must be congratulated for supporting this worthwhile service and people with a disability.

“The My Life program fits neatly with DSQ’s growing commitment to the rights of people with a disability, meeting their needs, delivering quality services and being responsive,” he said.

Media contact: Stirling Hinchliffe 0418 983 654