About the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Equipment Scheme
Cerebral Palsy Alliance Equipment Scheme (CPAES) has been created so that children and adults with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities have timely access to equipment to assist with mobility and communication.
The program makes a significant difference to the participation of people with cerebral palsy at home, school, work and in the community.
Background
This scheme has been a priority program for Cerebral Palsy Alliance in NSW and the ACT. Over $2.6 million for equipment has been raised and allocated to families so far.
The scheme has been in place for many years in NSW and ACT and is well tested, with minimal operational overheads.
Macquarie Group Foundation has been a significant contributor to our equipment scheme through its corporate sponsorship of the very successful Twenty/20 Challenge, which specifically raises money for equipment. Other supporters such as Variety have also helped build this fundraising activity.
Our CPAES has now broadened to provide equipment in Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. This is because we know - as part of our advocacy role for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) - that the unmet need for equipment funding is consistently raised and confirmed as a national issue. Funding in this area is insufficient to support the growing demand in every state and territory.
Funding will be allocated to each state, based on the fundraising profits raised locally in each state.
Who is Eligible?
Children and adults with cerebral palsy living in NSW, ACT, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. It is anticipated that the program will expand to include Western Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania in the future.
When Will it be Available?
Funds have been raised for allocation in 20011/12. In NSW and ACT, applications are currently being processed and equipment is being purchased. Applications for the other states of Victoria, Queensland and South Australia will be assessed between November 2011 and January 2012.
How Will it Work Outside NSW/ACT?
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance has partnered with Yooralla in Victoria, Novita in South Australia and Cerebral Palsy League in Queensland for 2011/12 to provide mobility related equipment.
- Individuals or their families are selected from those on the waiting list by the local organisations named above. Priority is given to children and adults who have been waiting the longest.
- Applications, along with purchase orders, will be submitted by the partner organisation on behalf of their clients to Cerebral Palsy Alliance.
- Approval letters will be sent to successful families.
- The equipment supplier is then paid by Cerebral Palsy Alliance. The supplier then delivers the equipment directly to the client and their family.
