Developmental programme for people with special needs

By 2005 Compass had developed a reputation in the sector and the community for programmes with a genuine developmental focus however this seemed to have also engendered the incorrect perception that this focus would exclude people with more significant needs. Clearly this is not the case. Everyone has the right to participate in lifelong learning and development.

A simple example was the mother who argued that the over support her daughter had received during the two years since completing her secondary education had in fact resulted in a decline in that young lady’s independence and willingness to make an effort on her own behalf. She no longer made an effort with her appearance and would no longer participate in dressing or feeding herself.

The Focus programme has been specially designed to provide a highly individualised and person centred approach with intensive support structures that are development focussed. The programme has a strong therapeutic content and also includes…

• Community access and participation
• Hobbies and interests
• Recreational pursuits
• Social skills

The Focus programme may also act as a springboard from which the person can access elements of the following…

Tertiary education in a broad range of subjects

A lifetime of flexible personal development and growth

Skills based training towards a variety of vocational outcomes

On-the-job training and flexible paid employment in Compass industries