Background

Ability Options began in 1976 as the Association for the Assistance of Intellectually and Socially Handicapped persons. It grew from a union between the Rotary Club of Guildford and the NSW Health Commission to enable people with an intellectual disability to move from large institutions into their own home in areas such as Rydalmere to become part of the community.

Initial services were focused on people with an intellectual disability located in Western Sydney and included tailored support services to meet their individual needs. We offered support with living and life skills and providing each person with the least restrictive living options to give them a high level of independence and a true sense of belonging.

From this beginning, each person was supported to live in their own home as independently as possible through 24 hour staff support to assist with the development of life skills. This program was the beginning of our drop-in support services where we provided support for up to 15 hours per week in identified areas of need. This supported living program continues today in providing 24 hour support, semi-independent living (of up to 12 hours support per day) and outreach or drop-in support (from 15 hours per week).

Today, Ability Options provides services through a variety of programs across NSW to over 2,000 people and their family’s including:

• Housing development and home maintenance

• Supported living

• Respite services

• Community access

• Post school programs

• Case management

• Self management

• Disability employment services

• Transition to work

• Supported employment

Ability Options support programs and services are focused around each person’s needs. We are proud of the values which drive our organisation:

Respect: self determination and choice

Commitment: to quality, inclusion and community based relationships

Outcomes: best service, value and outcomes for each person

Influence: innovation, consultation and collaboration

Ability Options programs aim to support people with disabilities providing them with the opportunity to achieve their dreams and aspirations, and be valued contributing members of our community.