Featured as a brand hero in our “Great minds think differently” campaign for his innovative approach to brightening his clients’ day, Daniel’s goal remains the same. In his new role as Manager, it also involves ensuring the team of DSPs in the SIL house are set up to support clients.
Daniel is passionate about making a positive impact and brings a wealth of experience in the disability sector, having previously worked as a DSP with a provider in Sydney, and, also in the UK. Daniel commented that Cerebral Palsy Alliance is unique in its ability to support clients in Supported Independent Living.
“The scale of CPA means we have all the supports under one roof for clients to make choices. Clients’ needs change and they don’t always have funding for supports. We have supports like physios, speech pathologists, behavioural support, a gym, and even a dentist which we can access quickly.”
Daniel also commented on the history of Cerebral Palsy Alliance – as we approach 80 years of operation, “we have the structures in place – with evidence-based research and fundraising, which is directed appropriately.”
Our reputation as a global expert in cerebral palsy and being recognised as an employer of choice means we attract high calibre employees like Daniel”, commented Artika Benson, Senior Manager, Accommodation and Respite. “
Daniel’s innovative approach to problem solving and experience in IT in a previous career is valuable to his new role as Assistant House Manager. He’s identified digital improvements in systems which streamline processes and improve experiences for clients as well as employees. A current project is the digitisation of mealtimes. This involves systematising and sharing knowledge across all CPA SIL homes menu planning and recipes for different client needs.
“Every change made benefits the client. They may not be aware, for example, of system changes but they indirectly benefit from efficiencies in time and risk management; enabling quicker responses to incidents and escalation.”
Daniel describes his new position as a “refreshing change” and like being an “undercover boss”. His prior experience as a DSP means that colleagues and clients see him differently. This gives him a unique perspective to make improvements and build relationships.
Every day is different for Daniel as an Assistant House Manager and that’s what makes it refreshing. There are set things to do each day, organising staffing is a priority and there many appointments and phone calls, but you can’t always plan as anything can happen. However, it’s not all admin for Daniel, he still takes time to get out and about in the community with clients, have fun and participate in events, like STEPtember.
“For people wanting to make positive change there are many options at CPA. It’s very rewarding.”
