Making friends is now a breeze for Oliver

Published On: 26 October 2021Categories: NDIS, News

Oliver Bertram is happy making new friends and playing toy dinosaurs and superhero games with his younger brothers, thanks to the supports he is now receiving from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The Bellbird Park seven-year-old — who has autism — accesses an occupational therapist and a psychologist to work on his communication goals.

Oliver’s mum, Tania, said Oliver could not communicate and kept to himself until his NDIS supports began to make a difference in his life.

“When we first accessed the NDIS I had a little boy who couldn’t talk, would try to be social, but he still pretty much kept to himself,” she said.

“Now he has an amazing occupational therapist who is patient and kind and really helps to bring him out of his shell.  If it wasn’t for the support that we got, we wouldn’t be hitting milestones like being fully toilet trained for the last 10 months and getting haircuts now without being afraid.”

Tania said Oliver can now speak in full sentences and communicate to the best of his ability with his friends and family.

“He has come out of his shell so much, he makes friends easily because he isn’t afraid to go and play with other children,” she said.

“I cannot tell you how much I cried the first day he made a friend; I was so excited and so happy for my little man.

“It has helped with easing our anxiety knowing that he is doing the best he can, and we are getting the support to help with that.  We still have a lot to learn but overall, he is making us very proud.”

Oliver received assistance to implement his NDIS funding from Carers Queensland’s NDIS Local Area Coordination (LAC) Partner in the Community Program for the Ipswich region.

“Our experience has been wonderful with Carers Queensland,” Tania said.

“I am actually very impressed by our Local Area Coordinator (LAC), she has been so helpful and caring and will answer any questions I have.

“She listens when I feel like something isn’t going right or if I just need someone to chat to; she is incredible.  It takes a village to raise a child is the best phrase when it comes to Oliver and the NDIS.”

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