Faith scores big with NDIS supports

Published On: 27 September 2020Categories: NDIS, Stories

Faith Holland is gaining confidence and increasing her self-esteem playing in her local footy club – even scoring player of the match in her first game.

The 12-year-old from Sherwood, who has Sturge-Weber Syndrome and is vision impaired, is utilising her National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding to join and play in the inclusive AFL club, Sherwood Magpies.

Faith’s mum, Robyn, said after showing an interest in watching the sport on TV, Faith decided to keep building on her NDIS goals of improving her health and well-being.

“Faith’s dad and brother both play too so she decided to give it a try,” Robyn said.

“Faith loves kicking goals and the coach and team have been fabulous. To see her then get the award after her first game was special.”

Robyn said she feels anything is now possible for Faith as she continues her NDIS journey, which includes utilising a support worker for occupational therapy.

“Every year we aren’t just hitting the NDIS goals, we are smashing them. That excites me – what were limitations before, they aren’t now. Who knows, she could go to play footy for real. Now she is achieving goals, in her mind she can achieve anything!

“The NDIS has helped because it has supported her to develop those skills of behaviour, anxiety and emotional issues. Faith is having wins now at school and footy; she is positive and so happy to try new things too.”

When she isn’t training twice a week and playing footy on weekends, Faith is also building on her social goals, using a support worker to get out into the community.

“Her support worker broadens her understanding of things and is more like a friend. Faith can navigate her own day with her and do what she wants to do and make her own decision: go for a walk, or go to the shops to buy ingredients and cook cupcakes for school.”

Faith received assistance to apply for and implement her NDIS funding from Carers Queensland’s NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner in the Community Program for the Brisbane region.

Robyn said the NDIS is having a positive effect on Faith and her family.

“We feel we aren’t in it alone which is important. For many years we didn’t do anything as we felt we didn’t fit in, but now it’s that inclusion into the community even with her challenges. To have these wins is surreal and makes it all worthwhile. It’s a team effort; it’s nice to have wins.”

Carers Queensland can support you to find out more about the NDIS, to apply for funding and to help you get started with the NDIS.

If you have a disability but are not eligible for the NDIS, Carers Queensland can help you identify and link to options for support in your community.

You can also contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au