A good life for people living with disability: the story from Far North Queensland

Abstract

Purpose

People with disability in regional, rural and remote Australia have poorer service access compared to people from metropolitan areas. There is urgent need for reform. This study’s aim was to explore the needs and aspirations of people with lived experience of disability in Far North Queensland (FNQ) to inform a new service framework.

Materials and methods

Twenty-five individuals with diverse experience of disability were engaged in semi-structured interviews. Participants were recruited from four sites that differed geographically, culturally, and socioeconomically. Using an inductive then deductive thematic approach to data analysis, statements of needs and aspirations were compiled and aligned with three pre-determined vision statements.

Results

Needs and aspirations aligned well with the vision statements which were to: feel “included, connected, safe and supported”; have “opportunities to choose one’s own life and follow one’s hopes and dreams”; and have “access to culturally safe services close to home.” To realise this vision in FNQ, support to navigate and coordinate services across sectors is essential.

Conclusion

People of FNQ of all abilities, need and aspire to experience “a good life” like their fellow Australians. Any new service model must focus on providing service navigation and co-ordination amid the complexities of service delivery in FNQ.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• The perspective of people with lived experience of disability needs to be heard and respected when designing services to support them.

• Service navigation and co-ordination are required to manage the complexity of service delivery for people living in regional, rural and remote Australia.

• Engaging with the whole the community is prudent when designing community disability, rehabilitation, and lifestyle services in regional, rural, and remote Australia.

Keywords:

• Disability
• Rural and Remote
• Service Reform
• Needs and Aspirations

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by the North Queensland Primary Health Network. We acknowledge and thank those who participated in interviews along with our Reference Group members, the local Councils and organisations who provided support of the project. Without their generosity and commitment, this study would not have been possible. We would also like to acknowledge and thank Dr Michelle Fitts, for comments that greatly improved the manuscript

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work is supported by North Queensland Public Health Network