Introduction to the Next Steps Project
The National Federation of Voluntary Bodies is undertaking a project called ‘Next Steps’ to identify supports and barriers in the change process as our members move to more individualised supports for people who use our services. The objective of the project is to create shared learning that will assist Federation members in embracing the radical change agenda envisaged in the new vision for services and supports to people with intellectual disabilities in Ireland. The overall aim of these changes are to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are supported to live a life of their choosing.
In spite of the economic difficulties which we are all experiencing these are exciting times for people with disabilities, their families and the staff who support them. Many service providers are reconfiguring their services to provide more appropriate community based supports. The publication of the Disability Policy Review for consultation (October 2011), and of reports on Time to Move On from Congregated Settings (June 2011) and the 'New Directions review of Adult Day Services (February 2012) presents important opportunities for all concerned. However an essential element in availing of these opportunities is the management of the transitions to new service options that promote community participation and inclusion.
Supporting our member organisations and people who use our services through evidence and shared learning
We believe that a key factor in supporting our members in moving to new service options is to provide evidence-based guidance for the change management process required to transform services. To this end the National Federation have established the Next Steps Project. Through the Next Steps Project we are developing a community of learning between our member organisations and key stakeholders including those supported by our members, as they develop more innovative community based supports.
We are developing supports in response to the needs identified (e.g. shared learning, training, management supports). Federation members are working together in new ways to ensure best value is achieved for the initiatives developed and to ensure a multiplier effect for the learning undertaken. We are evaluating the initiatives undertaken and identifying supports and barriers in the change process, in order to share our learning in the change process with the wider Federation membership and with all key stakeholders nationally.
The Next Steps Project has gathered key relevant policy documents. These are made available on our website for quick reference.
We have also gathered some useful tools and resources and further reading. These materials continue to be updated over time as we continue learning and sharing information.
One of the first actions of the Next Steps Project was for the participating organisations to agree a vision of individualised supports that is at the centre of the initatives that the members are working towards.
We also developed a set of quick reference policy summaries which contain the key goals of the Disability Policy Review, the Time to Move On from Congregated Settings Report, New Directions, and the National Housing Strategy for People with a Disability 2011-2016.
Contact us
Further information will be posted on this website throughout the progress of the Next Steps Project.
For any queries or further details please contact the Project Coordinator, Alison Harnett: alison.harnett@fedvol.ie or phone the National Federation at 091 792316.