What is the Independent Living Skills Program?

The Independent Living Skills Program is designed to support and skill young deaf people to assist them to live independently in the future.

Staff visit each young person and work with them to develop skills and abilities, to improve their confidence and self-esteem and extend their ability to mix within the wider community, both deaf and hearing.

Deaf young people eligible for this service must:

• be deaf or hard of hearing
• be a resident of Victoria
• be between 13 and 18 years of age

What skills are taught?

Each young person will be assessed and a plan developed which will include aims and objectives, resources needed to achieve these aims, a timeline and activities planned.

The aims for each young person’s plan could include activities around:

• Personal management
• Hygiene, health and sexuality
• Community awareness, including the Deaf community
• Community resources and mobility
• Financial: money management
• House management: home safety and kitchen management
• Responsibility for oneself and others: developing independence, leadership and confidence, and developing social responsibility
• Communication, including learning to use a TTY, SMS, MSN and email

How often is the service provided?

The service is usually provided once per week for around one to two hours. The service continues with regular evaluation until the aims and objectives are achieved.

When is the service provided?

The service can be provided after or during school hours and/or school holidays. It can be provided on weekends if needed or more practical.

Where is the service provided?

The service is provided at a location which is agreeable to the parents / guardians of the young person and Deaf Children Australia and is usually dependent on the aims needing to be achieved. If negotiated with the young person’s school, the service may be provided at their school during school hours and it may become part of the young person’s educational program.

What if the family lives at a distance from Melbourne?

Deaf Children Australia may negotiate with another closer agency to provide this service. If this is not possible, Deaf Children Australia will travel to the young person’s location less regularly but for longer sessions each visit.

How much does this service cost?

There is no cost for this service.

Who do I contact for this service?

Contact the Deaf Children Australia Helpline on 1800 645 916 or email helpline@deafchildren.org.au who will then refer your request to the most appropriate staff member.

Please click the link below for a printable brochure, or for individuals with visual impairment this brochure is available in large print format. Please contact the Helpline to request a copy.

Download the brochure
Independent Living Skills Program  261KB

Another helpful service for families of children with a disability:

Association for Children with a Disability