About Jo
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Jo has 25 years of experience working with people with disability, their family, supporters, allies and the community.
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She approaches her work in a considered and careful way and aims to build positive relationships with those she engages with.
Much of her experience has been in innovative and well-regarded organisations and services in both Victoria and Brisbane. With experience as a support worker, key worker, coordinator, advocate and facilitator, Jo has a range of skills to support people to achieve their goals and vision for a good life.
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Influences and inspiration.
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Jo’s approach to working with people with disability and their family and networks is grounded in the practical application of Social Role Valorisation. She has been influenced and inspired by the work of many organisations and individuals throughout Australia and overseas.
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Jo also looks to the work and action of other people with disability and the disability pride and rights movements, who have fought and continue to work to ensure that the rights of all people with disability are acknowledged, respected and upheld.
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Living with a chronic disease and an acquired disability has given Jo a deeper understanding of the challenges people with disability face in everyday aspects of life, in navigating systems, services and the community.
With an interest in community development, permaculture, and sustainability, Jo sees the potential and value in looking for creative and local responses to build enriching communities of connection, contribution and belonging. She endeavours to do this in all aspects of her life.
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Jo has recently moved to Ipswich where she enjoys spending time at home with her wife, applying the principles of permaculture to help regenerate their green corner of the world and to build the threads of belonging in her local area. She also enjoys writing, reading and loves to bake.
Experience
Jo’s experience includes:
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Developing and facilitating circles of support
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Supporting individualised approaches to creating a home of your own
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Building and supporting teams and networks
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Developing a clear and positive vision and identifying the steps to bring it to life
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Supporting families over time to build confidence and the skills in self-directing home and living arrangements
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Developing comprehensive and holistic person- centred plans
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She has worked in the following roles:
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Consultant and facilitator with Community Resource Unit
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NDIS appeals advocate with Queensland Advocacy for Inclusion
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Coordinator of Supports with Staffing Options
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Peer mentor at Queenslanders with a Disability Network
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Events and administration coordinator with Bendigo Sustainability Group
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Inclusion Facilitator with Belonging Matters
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Local Answers Facilitator with Whittlesea Council and Melbourne City Mission
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Coordinator with Living Distinctive Lives
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Support worker