Melinda Watson

Beyond Independence. It is a unique opportunity to have a service in its entirety that focuses primarily on individual participants who dream of re-establishing a life of normality and re-integrating back into the community with new sets of skills that will enhance their lives. AMS will initially focus on the kinds of participants below: 1. Young people in care or have left the Minister for Community Services' care and who need ongoing support because of their intellectual disability or complex needs. 2. People who are re-integrating into the community after leaving prison or juvenile justice facilities, Health or have persistent contact with the criminal justice system. 3. People with an intellectual disability and complex needs often include mental health issues, behaviours of concern, substance abuse issues, acquired brain injury, a background of trauma, and behaviour that places themselves (and/or others) at risk of harm. Our Mentoring participants have the fundamental right to have their supports delivered in a safe and inclusive environment which enables them to expand their horizons and explore opportunities to: 1. Learn new skills 2. Develop prosocial relationships 3. Be a contributing member of their community 4. Improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing 5. Make choices that allow them to live the life they choose safely. We recognise that adjusting to life in the community and finding valued roles requires support and mentoring that is non-judgemental and sensitive to each person’s life experiences whilst also being aware of the impact on and tolerance of the community. The needs and goals of each person determine the type of support they receive as Mentoring services are truly personalised to individual needs. AMS delivers services to participants across Sydney, Wollongong and plans to expand to our wider rural communities.