Accommodation support
The DSQ accommodation support service provides accommodation support through operation of houses and units where adults with an intellectual disability share support services and facilities in a community setting, with the support of paid DSQ staff.
This service (previously known as the Alternative Living Service - ALS) was established in the 1970's so people with an intellectual disability can live in an environment which is least restrictive of their freedom and promotes community inclusion.
Accommodation Support households operate in centres across Queensland and include around 221 shared or single houses, flats and units which accommodate approximately 580 people.
Houses are usually rented either from public housing, the private market or through DSQ owned housing.
DSQ is committed to:
- Improving services so that it becomes more responsive to the needs of the people it supports
- Improving the quality of services
- Working collaboratively with stakeholders.
A typical household includes three to five people supported by a group of five or six Residential Care Officers (RCOs).
RCOs provide day-to-day assistance and support to people with an intellectual disability by ensuring their social, emotional and physical well-being.
In addition to RCOs, a range of support staff may provide specialist services in disciplines such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, social work and psychology.
A number of house teams (approximately three to five), are managed by a Unit Manager. Unit Managers report to Managers, who in turn report to either a Senior Manager or the Director, Accommodation Support and Respite Services.
For more information about accommodation support please phone your local Disability Services Queensland office.
Last updated June 2008