Get to know our sponsors - Q&A with Accessible Care & Lifestyle Services (ACALS) participant C Turner

Clearing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) confusion and getting some burning questions answered were key to participant C Turner finding their/her/his way to Accessible Care & Lifestyle Services (ACALS).

ACALS is one of our valuable Gold Sponsors at the Sydney Disability Connection Expo 2022 on July 1 and 2.

ACALS has helped find solutions and navigate the NDIS maze like no other. We asked C. Turner more about her/them/his experiences - read on to find out more about ACALS’ dedication and role in changing participants’ lives.

1. What drew you to ACALS as your NDIS provider, and what state are you in? What sets them apart from the rest? How many providers were you with before you found this team?

ACALS were very approachable. I called them to request services as I was confused with all the other information I received from all the other providers. ACALS were very dedicated and gave me time to be able to express what I was after, they also were patient in explaining to me what I did not understand. I like that they do stop the clock for me, and they make sure I understand.

2. If you had to pick just one thing they do best - what would that be? How do they support you in a way no one else has?

There is a team of people in the office that can always answer my questions, even if I call the rostering people or the reception, they can give me the information I need each time. I don’t feel lost with what is happening, which allows me not to be anxious.

3. Would you recommend ACALS to other participants and why?

Yes, they are very helpful, if they were not able to help me with my service or my request, they happily suggest other providers or give me options to see what else I can do. They are genuinely caring.

4. In 100 words or so, tell us a bit about yourself and your journey.

I have struggled with mental delays, depression, anxiety and PTSD. It has been very overwhelming trying to manage these issues throughout my life. I am now receiving a number of services that include ACALS’ capacity building programs.

I mostly enjoy the cooking classes, where we learn to plan our meals, learn and practice to cook new recipes and also learn how to budget for our shopping.

I also attend camps where I meet with new friends and I am able to escape every year.

5. Will you be at the Sydney Disability Connection Expo 2022? Are you taking the family? What are you looking forward to the most at the expo!?

Yes my support worker will be taking me to the expo and I am excited to attend, I cannot wait to see all the other options and how creative the services get

6. Tell us, in your own words, how the team from ACALS has changed your life, or made life easier for you.

I am able to understand what is going on. If unsure, I can easily call and ask any question I have regarding anything that Is in my mind. I have my schedules very clear and well set up, not only with ACALS but they have also helped me organise all the services I have with my other support services. I don’t feel that I am being hogged by them - on the contrary, I am given all the information I request and they even give me more suggestions.

How perfect is ACALS for C Turner!? We are so glad you have found a provider who takes the time for you and can help anytime, for any reason. And we also can’t wait to see what the expo brings you. Make sure you say hi if you see us around Exhibition Alley doing interviews!

To find out more about ACALS, look for them at site #159 at the Sydney Disability Connection Expo 2022, or visit their website https://www.acals.com.au/ for more information on their services.