cas programs
factsheet (
PDF)
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Community Access Services are day option programs for people who have severe and multiple disabilities. They are community-based services, which are a viable and valuable alternative to employment. The CAS programs differ in flavour and direction to reflect the interests of their members.
Community Access Services are currently located at Brookvale, Liverpool, Marsfield, Sefton, St Ives and Newcastle. A retirement program called Lifestyle Options operates at Allambie Heights.
Find out more about each of our CAS programs.
Aims of the CAS Program
The services are driven by the individual needs of the service users and programs reflect their individual interests and goals. Participants are assisted and encouraged to access general community facilities wherever possible, and to develop their skills to promote independence in all areas of their lives. Service users are supported to develop vocational skills and to access paid or voluntary work if this is a realistic goal.
The Service
The CAS environment provides opportunities for service users to make choices and decisions regarding the services they receive. Participants are actively involved in the management of the CAS at all levels – they are supported to plan their own weekly timetables, share in staff selection, reviews and appraisals
and join committees and working parties, both within the individual service and within the community.
The program activities offered by CAS are varied and have included such activities as dance, drama and art classes, gardening, ice skating, playing a variety of adapted sports, literacy programs, music therapy, massage therapy. Service users also access coffee shops, restaurants, shopping centres, hairdressers, clubs and community colleges, depending on individual choice. CAS participants may also be involved in community education programs, designed to raise awareness of the needs and experiences of people with a disability. CAS also provides "out of hours" activities such as trips to the theatre or concerts, and also provides supported holidays such as skiing and international trips.
The Team
The CAS team consists of senior and community educators and program attendants who are directed by
a Service Manager. Community educators are experienced in providing support to service users in a
variety of areas including transportation, community access, communication, advocacy, individual program
planning, personal care and mealtime assistance.
View CAS program details
This information is available in a print friendly version as a factsheet (PDF)