Recommendation

That the option of developing formal linkages with the NSW Department of Community Services Training Resource Unit be examined.

The possibility of formal linkages with the Training Resource Unit will be investigated in recognition of the need to seek specialist services not available in the ACT because of its size and geographic location.

This option has been examined and it has been determined that formal linkages are not currently required, on the basis that the ACT does have resources to provide specialist services required in most situations. In cases where specialist services are not available in the ACT individual arrangements may be negotiated with the Unit.

There have been informal linkages with NSW recently in relation to Disability Services. These have been beneficial to the individual clients concerned.

That the program implementer position on the team be converted to a psychologist position on the proviso that the position be filled by a person with expertise in the area of intellectual disability.

The staffing of the Behaviour Intervention Team and the Acute Behaviour Management Service and their functions are currently being reviewed. See also comments on Recommendation 8.0.

See comments against Recommendation 8.2.

That the eligibility for BIT intervention be extended to adults.

Service parameters of both the Behaviour Intervention Team and the Acute Behaviour Management Service need to be jointly considered in the context of client service delivery and this will be undertaken as part of the reform process during 1995.

See comments against Recommendation 8.2.

That the team be based in one of the regional locations but reports to, and is accountable to, the Director of the Community Access Program.

The team will be based in one of the regions and will report to the Director, Client Services.

See comments against Recommendations 3.0 and 8.0.