By Tate Papworth
Parents and carers have vowed to fight for service provider Autism Plus.
Friends of Autism Plus members say they are extremely fearful for their loved ones’ futures if the government closes this service provider.
Administrators appointed by Health and Human Services Minister Martin Foley were to hold an information session in St Albans on Monday night, for families, guardians and carers of Autism Plus clients.
Jeff O’Donnell, a member of the Friends of Autism Plus, said he and many other families required the services of the provider.
“Myself and a host of other families will be fighting to ensure nothing changes in terms of the service provided,” Mr O’Donnell said.
“Where other service providers have turned these people away, Autism Plus has taken them on. My son is one particular case.”
The service provider hasn’t been without its critics. An Ombudsman report released last year said Autism Plus and the Department of Health and Human Services put clients at risk by failing to move a group home resident who was accused of sexually assaulting vulnerable housemates.
Ombudsman Deborah Glass said the events raised serious concerns about the suitability of Autism Plus to provide programs and care for department clients.
While accepting the service provider has had its failings, Mr O’Donnell said it remained essential. “People tell me to read the Ombudsman’s report,” the Caroline Springs resident said. “I’ve read it cover to cover. It’s one thing to read the report. But come out and speak to the families who use this service – walk in the shoes of the families who deal with this every day.”
