Suzanne Currie

In 2006, the Summer Foundation was established to stop young people with disability being forced to live in aged care. We are changing systems to ensure people with disability and complex support needs live where and with whom they choose, with access to high quality housing and support options that enhance health, wellbeing and participation. As systems entrepreneurs, we use 5 levers to bring about change. Generating evidence such as published research and lived experience is a critical tool for this change, along with innovation through the co-design of new solutions and services. We work with government and influence people on the inside. Our advocacy work sees us apply pressure from the outside by harnessing public support. Where necessary, we use a legal lever and support people to fight for their rights. We develop practice guides, training materials and new models for government and non-government organisations to work together to resolve this issue. Many young people with a disability have shared their stories of living in a nursing home. You can view their stories on our website: http://www.summerfoundation.org.au