Accessing public transport can be quite challenging for participants. However, being able to travel independently using public transport is a fulfilling experience. In fact, every individual wants to achieve the skills where they can travel autonomously. So, support workers in Melbourne need to plan and implement innovative strategies to help individuals reach their goals. They work with participants and their family members to help them build the confidence and skills needed to navigate places using public transport safely.
Understanding the Needs of Individuals
Before providers can commence NDIS transport assistance in Melbourne, they evaluate the unique needs of participants. They take note of their goals, abilities, and aspirations to develop a plan. They identify the difficulties faced while operating wheelchairs so they can guide participants better. Additionally, they plan the accessible routes and vehicles to help individuals travel safely and confidently.
Support workers break down the journey into manageable steps and address anxiety related to travel to help individuals reach the places of their choice. They take a personalised approach to support so the participant can achieve his or her goals.
Planning the Travel
To assist individuals with travelling using public transport, providers plan the journey. They conduct one-on-one sessions with participants where they train them on using public vehicles while staying attentive. They also assist participants with operating their mobility aids so they can travel safely.
Support workers train participants with:
- Reading and understanding timetables
- Travel via safe and short routes
- Identify key stops and landmarks
- Manage unexpected situations, such as delays or missed transport
Individuals gain the confidence to use public transport gradually through each session. Once they gain confidence, they can start travelling alone.
Developing Safety Awareness
Since a participant will use public transport, the NDIS service provider in Melbourne needs to guarantee safety. It is one of the top priorities when using public transport. So, support staff train participants to stay alert, manage personal belongings, and traverse crowded areas. Besides, they also assist individuals in interacting with others for assistance related to vehicle timing or other emergency services.
As participants develop these skills, they can manage public transport better and overcome their fear of getting lost with other challenges.
Emotional and Social Support
Using public transport can be overwhelming and taxing at the same time. For this reason, support workers provide practical training with emotional reassurance. Doing so helps participants overcome their fears of travelling using public transport.
Additionally, as participants start travelling independently, they become more confident and can easily attend events, visit friends and go shopping.
Advocating for Accessibility
To help participants use public transport effectively, NDIS providers advocate on their behalf. They campaign regarding accessible services and infrastructure and even liaise with transport authorities on this matter.
These are some of the most common steps that NDIS service providers offering transport assistance in Melbourne take to help participants proactively travel using public transport.
Call or Send a WhatsApp Text for an Appointment
To book an appointment with Disability Diversity Care regarding mobility transport, call us or send us a WhatsApp text now.
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