Ashburton Shire Council has been commended by the State Government for its service to people with disabilities. The Minister for Disability Services, Paul Omodei, presented Council with a certificate in recognition of its commitment to improving access to Council services and facilities through the development of a Disability Services Plan.
Under the State Disability Services Act (1993), all Councils are required to develop and implement Disability Service Plans ensuring that services and facilities are accessible to people with disabilities. The Plan ensures that the needs of persons with disabilities, their families and carers are being met in respect to the facilities and services provided by Council.
It describes Council’s current functions, provides details of existing Council facilities and pin points any gaps in the provision of adequate services for people with disabilities.
Council’s recognition of the need for services and facilities for persons with disabilities is reflected in works undertaken in recent years. Since 1993, access and toilets for persons with disabilities have been included in new facilities developed by Council. Upgrading of existing facilities and services is also being progressively undertaken.
Disability Service Planning Committees have been established to oversee the implementation, updating and evaluation of the Plan.
Given the distance involved, and different requirements in the population centres around the Shire, a separate committee has been established in each centre. The Plan will be formerly reviewed and amended each year, taking into account comments from the community, Councillors and staff. The amended plan will then be submitted to Council for approval.
For further information, contact Council’s Manager Community Services, Lance White, on (08) 9189 1029.
