The Chronicle

Man builds his future prospects

-

ANDREW Currie is pursuing his passion for woodworkin­g, thanks to help from the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The creative 35-year-old from the Darling Downs, who has Down syndrome, has made a coffee table and is working on making a dining table as the next project with his support worker.

Mr Currie has been a participan­t in the NDIS since 2018 and up until then only had access to occasional respite services.

He is now planning to move into a share house with his best friend, with the NDIS helping to build his confidence with daily living routines.

Mr Currie’s mum, Judy Currie, said he is now more confident and has built his capacity for daily living skills.

“The NDIS has been wonderful in helping him develop more independen­ce, allowing him to follow what he wants to do,” Ms Currie said.

“He and (his support worker) have a great rapport – his life has been enhanced and broadened.”

During the COVID-19 lockdown, Mr Currie has maintained his therapy sessions via Zoom and has been able to keep connected with his friends using his smart phone.

“Andrew has been able to keep in touch with his mates with video chatting,” Ms Currie said.

“He can communicat­e via text and by sending photos and emojis so he has been able to keep connected using his smart devices and he is developing skills.”

Mr Currie has also been supported on his journey by Carers Queensland.

To find out more about how the NDIS and Local Area Coordinati­on program can work for you, contact

Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au.

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

 ?? Picture: Contribute­d ?? UPSKILL: The NDIS has helped to empower Darling Downs man Andrew Currie, who is now learning important woodworkin­g skills.
Picture: Contribute­d UPSKILL: The NDIS has helped to empower Darling Downs man Andrew Currie, who is now learning important woodworkin­g skills.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Australia