Victorians with spinal cord injuries can learn invaluable wheelchair skills thanks to an innovative service launched today at Austin Health’s Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre in Kew. Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan MP visited the Centre today to launch the course, which is set to help around 100 individuals a year.
“We’re supporting people with spinal cord injuries by giving them the skills and support they need to make a safe and successful transition back into the community after their stay at the Royal Talbot.” Minister Donnellan commented.
The Minister explained that the Wheelchair Skills Course prepares patients with spinal cord injuries to use a wheelchair effectively and lets them practise their wheelchair skills in a safe and controlled environment. It’s part of the Royal Talbot’s Victoria Spinal Cord Service, which treats almost 100 patients each year with a severe spinal cord injury.
“This innovative new service is one of the many ways we’re building a more inclusive Victoria, one in which people living with disability are supported and empowered to make choices and reach their potential.” Minister Donnellan commented.
Minister Donnellan commented said that the course is part of the $100,000 redevelopment of the Royal Talbot, which includes Andrews Labor Government funding from the Transport Accident Commission and the Major Roads Project Authority, as well as from Kew Golf Club and an anonymous donor. The Labor Government invested $2.24 billion in supporting individuals with disability, their advocates and organisations working in and for the disability sector in the 2018-19 Victorian state budget.