This workshop is for family members of an adult with Down syndrome. The workshop will explore housing options, making decisions about housing and how the NDIS can be used to help people with Down syndrome to more independent housing. This is a basic introduction to your housing journey.

Workshop objectives, by the end of this workshop you will have:

• Awareness on how you can support the person with Down syndrome to be involved and make decisions regarding housing

• Greater understanding of the housing options for people with Down syndrome

• Increased knowledge of the funding available through the NDIS to support independent housing options.

This workshop will be hosted by Jo Middleton and Debby Fraumano.

Jo lives in regional Victoria and has 3 adult children, one of whom has Down syndrome. Jo’s son has recently moved out of home into a share house with other young people. Jo is passionate about people with Down syndrome building independence and having a good life. She is excited to share her experiences with other family members on their housing journey.

Debby is a social worker with a long history in the disability sector. She started out in direct services, and then worked with the Association for Children with a Disability for a few years after her second child was born with a disability. Following that with a stint in case management she then returned to the Association for Children with a Disability as the Coordinator of ACD Educate with a focus on assisting parents in preparing for the NDIS. Debby firmly believes in never being afraid to try new things and make some mistakes on the way. It’s all part of life and learning.