Facing Forward: Investing in Client Voice and Inclusion
The Facing Forward Committee, established in 2022, continues to be a powerful example of Sylvanvale’s commitment to elevating the voices of people with disability. The Committee provides a formal mechanism for clients to engage directly with the Board of Directors—sharing feedback, offering advice, and helping shape the future of Sylvanvale’s services.
Comprising 12 paid members who meet quarterly under formal Terms of Reference, the Committee is made up of individuals who receive services from Sylvanvale and are passionate about improving the experience for all. Their insights—both positive and constructive—are helping to drive meaningful change across the organisation.
FY25 Highlights
Over the past year, the Facing Forward Committee has collaborated with the Board on several impactful initiatives:
- Permanent Staffing in NDIS Supports: The Committee advocated for the removal of agency staff in favour of permanent team members, ensuring clients have consistent, familiar faces they can trust.
- Emergency Procedures in Easy Read: Members pushed for clearer communication, resulting in Sylvanvale’s emergency protocols being translated into Easy Read formats.
- Shaping Sylvanvale’s Values: Feedback from the Committee directly influenced the refinement of the value of “Belonging” during strategic planning.
- Branding and Identity: Members provided thoughtful input on how they perceive Sylvanvale, its staff, and how they believe the broader community sees the organisation.
- Improving Client Engagement: The Committee reviewed the Sylvanvale-wide ‘Voice’ survey and offered suggestions to increase client participation in future feedback initiatives.
In addition to these achievements, the Committee is exploring ways to communicate their experiences and frustrations with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), particularly around the complexity of navigating the system and recent changes.
One member summed up the impact of their involvement by saying,
“Being part of the Committee has given me more confidence.”
Sylvanvale is proud to support the Facing Forward Committee as part of our broader investment in inclusion, empowerment, and client-led change. Their work exemplifies the organisations belief that when people with disability are given a platform to lead, the entire community benefits.
