Families and carers often hold useful knowledge about routines, communication and what helps a day work well. You can share that knowledge while keeping the person’s preferences at the centre of the conversation.
The person receiving support chooses who they want involved. Where a guardian or nominee has a formal role, we clarify that role and continue to include the person in decisions about their life.
Makodah Care’s lived experience model includes both participant and parent perspectives. We value the knowledge families and carers bring about routines, communication and daily life. The participant’s voice, choices and consent guide how that knowledge becomes part of their support.
Before you make a referral
Talk with the person about what they would like help with and whether they want you to contact Makodah Care. If you are referring on their behalf, make sure you have their agreement or the agreement of the appropriate decision-maker.
Prepare the details that will help the first conversation: the supports being considered, location, preferred times and communication needs. Relevant plans or reports can help us assess support safely. You can ask to discuss sensitive information directly instead of including it in an online form.
Make room for their voice
A meet and greet gives everyone time to ask practical questions. The person might want to explain a routine, describe a worker they would feel comfortable with or say what they want to do independently.
Let us know if Easy Read information, pictures, a communication aid or an interpreter would help. A trusted supporter or advocate is welcome. You can read the service agreement together, ask questions and take time before deciding.
Agree how you will stay involved
Support planning includes the people the participant chooses and the information they agree can be shared. Being a family member does not mean every detail is automatically shared with you. Clear consent helps everyone know their role.
If needs or circumstances change, the support plan can be reviewed. You can help the person raise a question or concern, and they can ask for a different worker at any time. Independent advocacy is also available when someone would like support to express their views.
Read Starting with Makodah Care in Easy Read (PDF)Read Your Rights and Responsibilities in Easy Read (PDF)Read our information about consent and privacy