For the second consecutive year, Minda was proud to be a gold sponsor of the South Australian Council on Intellectual Disability (SACID) Leading Through Inclusion Conference, held at the Hilton Hotel last month.
The conference empowers people with intellectual disability by providing a strong platform where they can be seen, heard, and understood. Minda Chief Executive David Panter presented at the event, using the valuable opportunity to highlight the organisation’s strong and growing partnership with SACID.
"We deeply value our partnership with SACID. Their independent advocacy services provide a safe, confidential space for clients to raise concerns and have their voices heard."
“Minda continues to work closely with SACID, particularly in advocating for improvements to the NDIS to ensure it truly meets the needs of people with intellectual disability.”
Several clients attended this year's conference, including Bev, who “really enjoyed” sharing stories and connecting with peers. She also explained the importance of the independent advocacy services that SACID provide.
“SACID provides a safe place to share our thoughts and opinions. It’s nice to know there’s a group that listens and helps us speak out when we need support,” Bev said.
Bev also regularly attends SACID workshops held at Minda’s Brighton Neighbourhood, which focus on important life topics such as client rights, online safety and building relationships.
“I learn a lot from these workshops, and they tell us how we can speak up if something’s not right – it’s important that we have access to these workshops,” she said.
Minda Chief Executive, David Panter presenting at the South Australian Council on Intellectual Disability (SACID) Leading Through Inclusion Conference. Photo: SACID.
Minda’s strong commitment to advocacy, support, and quality services for people with intellectual disability has driven a range of organisational changes aligned with its strategic plan.
“We have made important changes since shifting away from an institutional model and embracing a more person-centred, life journey approach,” he said.
“Our strategic plan commits to supporting people with intellectual disability to live independently, be heard and thrive in inclusive, connected communities.”
Staff standing at the Minda stall during the South Australian Council on Intellectual Disability (SACID) Leading Through Inclusion Conference. Photo: SACID.
The Minda Soldiers, a client advocacy group, play a vital role in co-design and in enhancing services in line with Minda’s strategic direction.
“Recently, we’ve seen clients work alongside our Human Resources (HR) team to design recruitment processes that ensure the people we support are involved in selecting support workers,” Dr Panter added.
“This gives clients a voice in choosing staff who best understand and support their individual needs.”
Another way Minda has amplified client voices is through the Truth Telling Project, which last year gave clients the opportunity to share their personal stories. The project culminated in a short film titled A House for Humans, featuring 14 clients who openly shared both the positive and challenging aspects of their lived experiences at Minda.
By partnering with like-minded organisations such as SACID, Minda is deepening its commitment to inclusion and to empowering the voices of people with intellectual disability.
These valued partnerships are essential to creating a future where people with intellectual disability are heard, respected, and supported to live independently and thrive within connected communities.
Together, Minda and SACID are committed to continuing their collaboration to drive positive change and deliver meaningful outcomes for the people they support.