It begins with
COMMUNITY
AN N U A L R EP OR T 2021
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Our Mission
Our Vision
Our Values
Ensure the rights of people impacted by brain injury by connecting knowledge, policy, services and systems.
Rethink Brain Injury. Change Society.
We hold each other steady.
SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
We build relationships. We are problem solvers. We remain curious, always. We are courageous.
Copyright © 2021 Synapse.
CONTENTS Synapse respectfully acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands, sea and waterways upon which Synapse provides its services. We pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and future, and commit to working side by side.
Synapse Overview
Accessing Information
Our Mission, Our Vision, Our Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Accessing information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Our Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Info Hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
At a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Message from the CEO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Our People
Who are we?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Keeping identity strong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Living the Synapse Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-24
Our Services National Reach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Synapse Services Snapshot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Our Audience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Our Workforce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Connecting evidence with practice Partnering for impact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Partnering for impact Screening tool identifies cognitive difficulties . . . . . 26
Synapse National Reach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Supporting the Community Supporting the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Housing and employment needed for living well. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 Brain injury across the lifespan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Working with people with lived experience. . . . . 17-19
Advocating for Change Probono letter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Synapse helps Uncle Allan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29
Acknowledgements & Funders. . . . . . 30 Financials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-35
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We acknowledge that the most powerful advocacy and wisdom comes only from within communities Adam Schickerling, National Director Strategy & Engagement, Synapse.
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OUR BOARD Paul Watson NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Paul Watson is a Director of Berrill & Watson Lawyers and an expert in superannuation and life insurance. For the last decade, Paul has delivered seminars and workshops for disability support groups, financial counsellors and consumers with the aim of improving the lives of people with a disability, injury or chronic illness. Paul is a current member of the Consumer Law Committee of the Law Council of Australia and was awarded an Honorary Life Membership with Palliative Care Queensland because of the support he provided to the organisation.
Paul Raciborski NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Paul Raciborski experienced a severe brain injury as the result of a fall in 2003. Since then, he has strived to make a difference for others who have lived through similar experiences. Paul is a Disability Support Worker and supports people with mental health conditions and intellectual and physical disabilities. Before he acquired a brain injury, Paul’s career saw him hold various positions in corporate project management and manufacturing.
Hannah Hiscox NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Hannah Hiscox is a chartered accountant and registered company auditor with more than 20 years’ professional experience. Currently a partner in the Audit and Assurances team at Grant Thornton Australia, Hannah audits a portfolio of charities registered with the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission (ACNC). Hannah holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) and a Graduate Certificate in Business (Philanthropy and Non-profit Studies).
Justin Kenardy NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Professor Justin Kenardy is a clinical psychologist and Professor in the School of Psychology at the University of Queensland. For more than 30 years, Justin focused on the translation of applied psychology, more specifically clinical psychology, into novel cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary areas. His work on brain injury included cooccurrence of post-traumatic stress, pain, lived experience of behaviours of concern, and quality of life outcomes. Justin served on the Executive Board of Directors of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and is the Past President of the Australian Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.
Greg Luck NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
After almost five years as CEO at HELP Employment & Training, Greg Luck, has moved to another CEO position, this time with the Pickwick Group, effective December 6, 2021. With over 25 years’ experience in senior executive roles transforming businesses across Australia and in more than 24 countries internationally, Greg is known for his transformational leadership, his innovation and driving cultural change while managing stakeholder expectations and outcomes. He has been described by his peers as a “visionary, gifted leader and passionate human” who “resonates and motivates all who have the opportunity to work alongside him”. Greg holds a Masters in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s in Vocational Education, is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and was recently awarded the distinction of Certified CEO by The CEO Institute.
Justin Hogg COMPANY SECRETARY
Justin Hogg is the Founding Director of accounting firm, Right Source. He has worked as an accountant in several industries where he managed teams responsible for billion-dollar business ventures as well as charities. Through multiple leadership positions and business experience, Justin has gained a unique ability to communicate and relate to people from all walks of life. He is passionate about the not-for-profit space and helping those who help others. As well as the Company Secretary role at Synapse, he serves in the same capacity for several other not-for-profits. The following people held the position of Non-executive Director on the Synapse Board during the 2021 financial year: Siena Perry and Robyn Grote. SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
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AT A GLANCE A B I
One in 45 Australians live with a brain injury.
29% <65
Three out of four people with an ABI are under the age of 65.
2x Two out of three brain injuries are sustained before the age of 25. Three of four are male.
Rates of head injury in men and women have doubled from 2007-08 to 2016-17.
4x
3-5x Indigenous people are three times more likely to sustain a brain injury than non-Indigenous people.
Indigenous people are three-to-five times more likely to get dementia than nonIndigenous people.
82% 82% of adult male prisoners have at least one past brain injury.
42%
29% of homeless Australians have a disability.
People living in aged care are four times as likely to get a traumatic brain injury than older Australians living at home.
29%
Almost 30% of people entering prison have a chronic condition or disability.
14%
The most common causes of traumatic brain injury include: Falls (42%) Transport related injuries (motor vehicle, cycling accidents)(29%) Assault (14%).
*ABI: Acquired brain injury *Due to underreporting and the lack of consistent definitions and diagnostic criteria across jurisdictions and studies, these data are an underestimate of the actual incidence and prevalence of brain injury in Australia.
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SYNAPSE OVERVIEW MESSAGE FROM THE CEO A year of learning, a year of reflection and a year of change. While the COVID pandemic in some regards continued to hold life still, it was also the necessary impetus to unavoidably consider the reality of impacts on our health, our opportunities and freedoms as well as the importance of being seen and looking out for those beside us. It was a stark reminder of the additional impact our economic and social position can often have on accessing the things that safeguard our health and connections …. and our life as a whole. No more so than now, do we see and feel the reality of the barriers often presented to people impacted by brain injury and disability, even in the absence of a pandemic. Albeit brief in the grand scheme of life, the pandemic has offered an insight to us all, into the reality that many already fight against in day-to-day life, choices and opportunities. A reminder also that we must always remain attuned to the rapid changes around us to ensure we tailor everything we do to the specific needs of those relying on us for support as individuals, families, communities and business. With already strong foundations, we enhanced accessibility of our services at every turn with online and virtual alternatives. From phone calls to online forums, Facebook groups and online resources, podcasts and videos – we strengthened the ways and means by which we connected. And we continued to advocate for change in the lives of individuals and communities by reaching more than ever before, in pursuit of not only understanding but responding to the impact that brain injury has across the lifespan of the individual. We continue to fight to ensure that strong evidence and the voices of those impacted by brain injury surface in decisions that enhance the outcomes of the NDIS and those that are and should be, entitled to this support. We welcomed the government’s decision to reconsider the approach to Independent
Assessments, ensuring those impacted by brain injury are not further invisible. In positive news, the Commonwealth Government, released a new national disability strategy this year; Australia’s Disability Strategy, which sets out a national disability policy framework to be used by all levels of government until 2031. Australia’s Disability Strategy highlighted the importance of collaboration to achieve real systemic change – at all levels. And it’s this theme of collaboration that runs through the pages of Synapse’s 2021 Annual Report. As Synapse’s National Director Strategy and Engagement, Adam Schickerling, says on the coming pages, “as we continue to increase our reach nationally, we bring with us a workforce, partners and fierce advocates that reflect this diversity and authenticity – a coalition of voices that is of and in community”. This means we will continue to support people with brain injury putting the voice of lived experience front and centre. While we continue to reach more people throughout Australia, we never forget what we set out to do in the beginning – we never stop listening and asking questions to find out what we can do better. Thank you to the Synapse Board for their commitment and counsel throughout the last 12 months and to the Synapse family, for their steadfastness and devotion to the work we do; our partners – and the funders whose support and belief make our work real. We don’t make a difference on our own. It’s our connections that make us, it’s our connections that keep us strong. Just like the synapses in the human brain. Thank you for your belief in Synapse and the work we do to create change every day. Jennifer Cullen, Synapse CEO
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WHO ARE WE?
Adam Schickerling NATIONAL DIRECTOR STRATEGY & ENGAGEMENT For the last 20 years, Adam has worked in senior managerial and executive positions in Disability, Housing, Indigenous, Community Development, Youth & Family Services and the Aged Care sectors. And while his educational qualifications ensure sector credibility, it’s his ability to see the gaps in the bigger picture and find ‘real’ solutions to complex challenges that position him as an industry expert. Adam has led the design and scaling of innovation initiatives and pilot programs recognised as exemplars in their respective fields. Adam works with the Synapse CEO to grow a dynamic organisation recognised nationally and internationally as one grounded in and committed to community and cultural capacity building.
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OUR STORY: WHO IS SYNAPSE Synapse has come a long way from its beginnings of a group of people who got together to support each other navigate the challenges of life after brain injury. Today, Synapse provides more programs and services than ever before, reaching more people and communities across Australia. At its heart, our connections grow from an unwavering commitment to see those impacted by brain injury live life well, with access to the best services and opportunities. Our guide remains the voices of those we connect with across Australia. Listening and learning from the real and unique perspectives of people and families impacted by brain injury, communities, organisations and government systems. Our work at a local level is so critical, be it around a kitchen table helping to plan the future or navigating the grief and complexity of changes when brain injury enters our own life or the life of someone close to us. We know that to achieve the best outcomes and opportunities for people impacted by brain injury in our community we must amplify the voice of individuals, families and communities. Harnessing the knowledge, the experiences and the aspirations for change are what drives everything we do. We must translate what we know into new and better solutions to the challenges faced by people with brain injury across Australia, across cultures and across geographies. We must equally and courageously acknowledge what we don’t know, what we have not yet learned; acknowledge the gaps in evidence, services and systems and then build our knowledge and our partnerships to bring about change. Our impact must be felt. By our teams. By our community. By the systems existing to support human rights and agency. This is our work. This is how we connect with each other. This is who we are. This is the heart of Synapse. Brain injury exists across the breadth of the experience of life, from young to old age, from advantage to disadvantage, from illness to good health. As we continue to increase our reach nationally, we bring with us a workforce, partners and fierce advocates that reflect this diversity and authenticity – a coalition of voices that is of and in community.
OUR SERVICES NATIONAL REACH Synapse promotes quality of life, self-determination and choice through information, housing, specialist support and targeted research activities. Synapse works with individuals and at a systemic level to reduce the social, economic and emotional cost to people impacted by brain injury, their families and carers, communities and society.
SYNAPSE SERVICES SNAPSHOT INFORMATION AND REFERRAL
SYNAPSE PEER SUPPORT
National information and referral service connecting people impacted by brain injury to a wide range of leading and local therapists, support providers and industry professionals.
Providing information and opportunities to create networks between organisations, individuals with brain injury, their families and carers.
SUPPORT COORDINATION Support coordination and planning services to assist people with the planning, organisation and management of their funding, services and supports.
ADVOCACY Systemic and individual advocacy to protect the rights of people with a brain injury or disability and their families and carers.
SUPPORT AND HOUSING Providing housing and support services for people with brain injury and disability to live well in the home of their choice.
IMPACT AND EVALUATION Conducting research to improve knowledge about the impact of brain injury across Australia and the ways knowledge, policy, systems and services can do better. Connecting the evidence with practice.
HOSPITAL AND REHABILITATION Synapse Family Liaison Service provides support, advice and resources through each person’s journey from hospital to rehabilitation and the transition home.
ASSESSMENT, SCREENING AND PLANNING Practical assessments to identify how a brain injury impacts on daily life so people can plan and connect with the best support.
TRAINING AND EDUCATION Specialised brain injury training for individuals and carers, community, support providers, employers, government and systems to increase knowledge to better understand and respond to the needs of people with a brain injury.
INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE Developing leading evidence-based information, tools and resources for professionals, individuals and carers, and communities.
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OUR AUDIENCE
What people are enquiring about
Who we’re connecting with
Information and Training
41%
Individuals
37%
Peer Support
23%
Carers and Supporters
29%
Advocacy and NDIS Appeals
21%
Professionals
34%
Support Coordination & Housing
11%
Ageing
4% 1200 1000 800 600 400
Emerging advocacy issues for clients These are the areas that our current clients tell us they most need support beyond their existing access to services NDIS 36% - Support Implementing (29.6%) Plan Accessing services - Access / Planning (3.1%) - Internal Review
(3.3%)
Other 22.7%
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200 0
Areas of focus of organisations we work with Legal and Advocacy
164
Mental Health
514
Housing 348 Justice 146 Community & Social Services 1200 Medical/Allied Health
744
Vulnerability/Isolation
21.9%
Housing/Homelessness
8.4%
Health/Mental Health
4.6%
Research 77
Equipment
7.5%
Other 340
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Health 744 Education
258
OUR WORKFORCE OUR PEOPLE The 2021 financial year saw Synapse continue to focus on growing a diverse workforce with a real passion to understand how brain injury affects not just the individual, but every touchpoint around that person, including the community they live in. We strive to remain relevant and are committed to improving the lives of people with a brain injury. We do this by finding the individuals that connect with our work, individuals that want to work with us. That’s our point of difference, that’s the Synapse Way.
Age breakdown of staff for 2021
Indigenous identification of staff for 2021
Indigenous
16-25
46-55
26-35
56-65
36-45
>66
Gender breakdown of staff for 2021
Female
Male
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TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS
SYNAPSE NATIONAL REACH CAIRNS
SUNSHINE COAST BRISBANE
GOSFORD PERTH
Services Providing information and support services to people with a brain injury, their families and carers, and the people who work to support them.
Working with Communities
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Working with Agencies & Organisations Engaging and partnering with government agencies and organisations to build capacity and knowledge about brain injury and how to respond. Agencies & Organisations include:
Connecting with people impacted by brain injury and their communities to provide support and engage about their needs at a local and personal level.
• Disability services providers
Systemic & Individual Advocacy
• Domestic and Family Violence
Working across Australian society and service systems to consolidate and embed change at all levels.
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PARRAMATTA
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• Health • Mental Health • Child Safety • Corrections • Youth Justice • Alcohol and Other Drugs • Employment • Housing and Homelessness • Insurance Schemes • Peak Bodies and Advocates
Where Synapse has a presence Queensland Brisbane Sunshine Coast Cairns New South Wales Parramatta Gosford Dubbo Mid-north Coast region Hunter/New England region Western Australia Perth
SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY As Australia’s peak body for brain injury, Synapse’s work crosses the systems and political divides to achieve our mission – ensuring the rights of people impacted by brain injury by connecting them to knowledge, policy, services and systems. We do this by supporting our community from young to old age. What is important to us as individuals is influenced by where we live, who we live with, the support we have around us, our expectations of ourselves and others, our access to employment, relationships and our identity. Brain injury does not discriminate. Far too often brain injury impacts in ways that amplify vulnerability to exclusion from the very opportunities that we all hold dear. The opportunities and choices that are the catalyst for self-determination and identity. But, just like every brain injury is different, the support we offer is different for everyone. If a distraught parent calls about their young child’s brain injury diagnosis, they are after information and reassurance about the steps ahead. Their journey is just beginning, and they want to be best informed and prepared about what to expect before their child leaves hospital. When brain injury happens later in life, different support is needed. It may be help to find employment, or perhaps assistance to manage day-to-day life at home, keeping connected with others or finding the right services in retirement.
No matter the stage someone sustains a brain injury, it means that person will need to be connected to information and support networks that are right for them throughout their life. Synapse understands this and has built a team of people committed to providing what is needed at each transition point in someone’s life. We don’t do this alone. We connect people impacted by brain injury to specialist support networks and information sources within their local communities to enable them to live life the way they choose. In other words, we help build capacity in both an individual and their community by providing the ingredients that can help navigate life’s challenges and essentially change the trajectory of someone’s life. And Synapse understands if we can do this for one person, or one community, we have made a real difference. But to continue delivering better outcomes for people with brain injury, we know that to make real change, we must do it on a large scale. A scale that impacts whole parts of society who are often disadvantaged by providing them with support, often for the first time.
At Synapse we dream big, and to turn those big dreams into real impact, requires never compromising. At Synapse we dream big, and to turn those big dreams into real impact requires never compromising on the stories, the experiences and the struggles that speak to the heart of who we are as individuals, as families, communities and as an organisation.To that end, our vision – Rethink Brain Injury. Change Society – is as actionable as it is aspirational. It’s not just the reference point for all our decision-making, it’s the yardstick to which we hold ourselves to account. This means that we will never stand still, we will never stop learning, and we will always remain curious to what might be possible.
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SUP P OR T ING T HE C OMMUNI T Y
HOUSING AND EMPLOYMENT NEEDED FOR LIVING WELL We know the importance of work. To pay the bills, to care for your family, to experience new things and connect with others. For many of us, it’s a key part of living well. Housing too, is critical. But the ability to gain and retain tenancy can be challenged by the impacts of brain injury. These aren’t issues we can deal with in isolation. In fact, they’re often closely interlinked. Without a job, how do you pay your bills? Without a stable home address, how do you gain or retain employment? And, for both, if you’re struggling with memory or cognition, how do you manage the day-to-day realities of employment and maintaining a home? Synapse understands the magnitude of these challenges. That’s why we’re partnering with other organisations to tackle the big picture of stability and wellbeing for people with disabilities, particularly people impacted by brain injury. Then, of course, there’s the added complication of interactions with the criminal justice system. Housing and employment are in fact two significant impactors on recidivism. Compounded by the reality that as many as 80 per cent of adult prisoners report a history of traumatic brain injury. How to break that solidly forged cycle of disadvantage? As part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week celebrations, Synapse invited the wisdom of those that can help understand and imagine new possibilities. We heard from Indigenous Elders, members of the Queensland Parole Board, Public Advocates from across Australia, Police
Liaison Officers and several community representatives. The discussion centred on the experiences of Indigenous people with brain injury and disability when they leave prison. What do we know, what do we see, what is our part? Access to safe, affordable and culturally led and informed housing options emerged as a critical need. It’s those sorts of questions that lie at the heart of this complex problem. To really change the outcomes, we need to first understand the factors that contribute to the identified problem and then tackle them holistically and in partnership.
We’re partnering with other organisations to tackle the big picture of stability and wellbeing for people with disabilities, particularly people impacted by brain injury. Our Cairns Community Living initiative is a great example of how we work with community and community partners to create real and better opportunities for Indigenous people impacted by brain injury and disability, often where interaction with the justice system is a part of the complex circumstances for a person who has been misunderstood or whose brain injury is invisible to these systems. And it’s just one of our many housing approaches, because we recognise that how we live, what keeps us safe, and what keeps us connected can be – in fact is – different for each person. As different as their brain injury, or their life story that came before and after brain injury. A story still emerging, still being lived. We’re also working with an employment provider that is offering training inside correctional facilities and providing assistance with securing employment opportunities after release from prison. As part of that process, we’re assessing participants within the prison setting, using the Guddi Way Screen – an innovative culturally safe and sensitive approach to understanding health, disability
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SUP P OR T ING T HE C OMMUNI T Y
HOUSING AND EMPLOYMENT NEEDED FOR LIVING WELL and human rights for Indigenous people living with brain injury and cognitive impairment. In doing so, we can assess cognitive difficulty and enable the provider to better understand the needs of each person. What that might mean is, perhaps the person may fatigue quickly and only be able to work for shorter periods, or with more frequent breaks. Or they may need extra time to learn new tasks or maybe need different ways to remember important things. The goal is to then match the person with an employer that not only understands but respects and supports their ability to do a great job, often with the simplest of solutions. This relationship dovetails with another piece of work – the creation of a suite of resources for employers to help them engage more meaningfully with those impacted by brain injury. Our Employment Yarn Up Cards were developed with guidance of partners and several discrete Aboriginal communities in Western Australia. They will help us to not only raise awareness of the hidden impacts of brain injury, but equip organisations assisting Indigenous job seekers to better understand – and have tools to assist – articulating the support that may be needed. These are just a few of the ways Synapse is tackling the big picture – supporting people to create the life they want.
INDIVIDUAL
FAMILIES
SOCIETY
ORGANISATIONS
COMMUNITIES
Building Capacity of Individuals and Communities to Make Change.
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SUP P OR T ING T HE C OMMUNI T Y
BRAIN INJURY ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
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SUP P OR T ING T HE C OMMUNI T Y
WORKING WITH PEOPLE WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE “We heard the single biggest game changer for many people during their brain injury journey was having a safe space to talk to others.” When it comes to our role as a provider of information and resources, Synapse is committed to not only communicating our learnings, but being shaped by it. Which means our ‘expertise’ is rooted in the knowledge and experience of people impacted by brain injury who lead with us to design information, resources, and services that make a difference. It’s that fundamental commitment to partnership that is the key to our success, and the foundation of projects such as BrainBank. The concept of BrainBank came from a desire to, quite literally, draw on the ‘bank’ of knowledge within our community to co-design opportunities for learning, sharing, connection and support. We heard stories of inspiring achievement, of grief and struggle, of untapped knowledge and of isolation and disconnection. Every story is a powerful reminder of the unique way brain injury impacts every person, influenced by knowledge, support and services available, but most importantly lived experience. We heard the single biggest game changer for many people during their brain injury journey was having a safe space to talk to people…to share challenges and learn from the
experience of others…to seek support from peers. We recruited several people for our BrainBank Panel – people who have intimate experience of brain injury, or who care for someone who has. They’re now sharing their stories, understanding and real experience with others, nationwide, creating that safe space our community recognised it needed most Similarly, the BrainBank Podcast series was developed in response to some of our most commonly asked questions. From within our community of people impacted by brain injury, we connected with our host, Dr Zara Weedon, alongside many others who were willing to honestly share their stories, the good and the challenging, and a diverse range of specialists working in the brain injury arena. Life can be complex, without brain injury adding to the mix. Often it was complex before brain injury, sometimes it became more complex as a result. One thing for sure though - Life is bigger than a brain injury. This is what our BrainBank panel brings to life. By listening to the people who access our services, interact with our community in person and online, and engage across our communication platforms, we are constantly
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SUP P OR T ING T HE C OMMUNI T Y
WORKING WITH PEOPLE WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE
building our understanding of what is needed and wanted, and then refining our resources and priorities.
newsletters to our peer support groups, website and forums.
We want to know, first-hand, the challenges people are facing – the assistance they need and the services that make a difference. By tapping into that information, we can continue pursuing an advocacy agenda grounded in making a real difference and shaping our activities and the resources we provide.
Our In Your Words series of videos, recreate real-life versions of our flagship resource, ABI The Facts handbook – personal stories from the frontline of brain injury.
Our current store of information and specialist networks were created for people at every stage of their brain injury journey whether the injury happened today or a decade ago. By sharing this knowledge and connecting with our community, we are building strong, sustainable and secure relationships with the people we support, across Australia. But it’s an infinite process, with the outputs evidenced across everything from our customer and stakeholder
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Importantly, we don’t keep those learnings to ourselves. We share our insights with audiences such as allied health professionals and service providers working across the homelessness, domestic violence and justice sectors, to name a few. Through networking events and professional linkages, we’re working to support best practice and improve experiences for people with brain injury – from Brisbane to Broome, Alice Springs to Adelaide, and everywhere in between.
WOR K ING W I T H P EOP LE W I T H LI V ED E XP ER IENCE
MARIE JOINS BRAINBANK PANEL Marie Carroll’s son, Jordan, was just 11 years old when he experienced a brain bleed, causing a stroke. “My son’s story is long, painful and heartbreaking but there have been incredible moments too. Every little achievement has been like a jump to the moon – he has amazed us all with his resilience and determination,” Marie said. “And all, I have to say, with little to no support, which astounds me even now, I have had to advocate so hard for nearly everything he has received.” Eleven-year-old Jordan spent three months in hospital including two weeks in a coma. “He didn’t so much ‘wake up’ as slowly become more aware of his surroundings; he had to learn to walk and it was quite a few weeks before he started talking,” she said. “As the weeks went on, we learned that Jordan was now vision impaired, had severe short-term memory loss and pituitary illness. Our whole world changed. “It took nearly 12 months, but we learned that the bleed was caused by a tumour in both optic nerves and his optic chiasm – the part of the brain where the optic nerves cross. When we got home there was no support except to go back to the hospital every 12 weeks. “While Jordan’s recovery was pretty miraculous, he had changed. I quickly became an OT (occupational therapist) to him as well as everything else he needed me to be. We put up a huge corkboard on the wall for reminders
and affirmations, we gave him a fish tank and a whiteboard where he could tick off having fed the fish each day. As phones weren’t yet so advanced, we also got him a voice recorder so he could tape all the things he needed to remember for school. “He had lots of medical appointments, but he made wonderful progress and, after moving to Brisbane for his medical needs, we thought his life was once again on track.” But then, when Jordan was 18, disaster struck. “He suffered two more bleeds and all the progress he had made was undone. We were pretty much starting from scratch, except this time he had even more medical issues,” Marie said. “Jordan is now 24 and his short-term memory loss is still severe at times, he has trouble with his executive decision making and is legally blind. After years of hoping for a miracle, however, his tumour is now stable and life is not as grim as it was.” “Jordan’s dreams keep changing but he’s like a chameleon, forever adapting with the most wonderful attitude. Don’t get me wrong, he gets down and upset as anyone would, but he just starts again. I’m very proud of all he’s achieved and hopefully there is nothing but success ahead for him.” Marie is one of our BrainBank Panellists where she shares her knowledge and understanding of what it likes to be a carer for someone like her son, Jordan.
After years of hoping for a miracle, however, his tumour is now stable and life is not as grim as it was.
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BR AIN INJURY BA SICS UNDERSTANDING THE BR AIN
ACCESSING INFORMATION
Understanding the Brain The brain controls and coordinates ever ything we do - our movements, feelings, thoughts, and bodily functions.
Our nationally recognised flagship publication, ABI The Facts is in its second edition. It provides practical and easy-to-understand information for every stage of the brain injury journey. This publication is highly sought after by medical and health professionals, rehabilitation providers, allied health professionals, family members, carers, sector organisations and individuals throughout Australia. ABI The Facts reaches all corners of the country, ensuring current and evidence-based information is at the fingertips of anyone wanting to learn or understand more about brain injury and its impacts.
Synapse is a clearing house of information and resources designed to improve awareness and outcomes for people with a brain injury. Recovering from a Brain Injury is yet another important resource produced by Synapse. This booklet is designed to alleviate the confusion people have when their family member, friend or colleague first arrives in the hospital. This traumatic time can be frightening and overwhelming, Recovering from a Brain Injury, answers the ‘first’ questions they may have while their loved one is being treated and takes them on a journey of what to expect over the coming days and weeks. With this publication and through direct contact with families, we can offer guidance and support during the overwhelming early stages and beyond.
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The brain stem
The occipital lobes are mainly connected with vision but also with our ability to recognise what we see. Our ability to see objects accurately, identify colours and locate objects in the environment comes from the occipital lobes.
The brain stem connects the brain to the spinal cord and regulates basic activities. These include breathing, blood pressure, blood circulation, swallowing, appetite, body temperature and digestion, as well as the need for water, staying awake and sleeping.
Other parts of the brain
About the brain The brain is made up of billions of nerve cells that communicate through electrical and chemical activity. Weighing around 1.5 kg the brain is cushioned within the skull by cerebrospinal fluid which circulates around the brain through a series of cavities called ventricles. The brain makes up only two percent of the body’s weight but uses 20% of the oxygen supply and blood flow. Brain cells are quite fragile and need protection from trauma, pressure, infection, poisoning or lack of oxygen. They begin to die if they do not receive oxygen after three to five minutes. The brain is divided into many parts, which have specific functions and work together.
Hemispheres of the brain For much of the 20th Century, it was believed that the two hemispheres of the brain were highly specialised and responsible for everything from which hand you prefer to write with top your personality. You have probably heard people talking about how the left-brain is all about language and logic, and the right brain is creative and visual. Although there is a small amount of truth to this, the reality is far more complicated. The two hemispheres work seamlessly together perceiving, processes, and integrating information.
THE RIGHT HEMISPHERE
As Australia’s national brain injury organisation, Synapse is a clearing house of information and resources designed to improve awareness and outcomes for people impacted by brain injury. We provide targeted information and resources and help connect individuals and professionals to specialist supports and services at every stage of the brain injury journey.
For information and referrals - 1800 673 074 or synapse.org.au
4. OCCIPITAL LOBES
In many people (but certainly not all people) the right hemisphere is more involved in the following activities: controlling parts of the left half of the body; perceiving and processing visuospatial information; recognising the emotional aspects of speech and some other emotional cues from others; some kinds of emotional regulation; finding your way through familiar surroundings; some aspects of selfawareness; and some aspects of metaphor and humour.
THE LEFT HEMISPHERE Likewise, in many people (but not all) the left hemisphere is more involved in: Controlling the right side of the body; speech production; understanding words; understanding sign language; following sequential directions; and focusing the attention. Communication and collaboration between the two hemispheres is vital for all brain functions.
For example, although the left hemisphere processes information relating to the meaning of language, the right hemisphere adds important information about the emotional aspects of speech.
Lobes of the brain Each hemisphere of the brain is divided into four lobes.
The effects of brain injury
The cerebellum The cerebellum is involved in “doing” rather than “thinking” activities. It is located at the back and below the main hemispheres of the brain. It controls balance and the muscle coordination needed for large body movements. It lets a person know how fast, how hard, how far and in what direction his or her body parts are moving.
Each part of the brain deals with different aspects of what we think, feel and do, so injury to specific areas can cause many different problems to occur. The good news is that the brain does have some ability to heal itself. There are many rehabilitation strategies to compensate for the effects of brain injury.
3. PARIETAL LOBE 1. FRONTAL LOBE 4. OCCIPITAL LOBE
1. FRONTAL LOBES The frontal lobes are involved in problem-solving, planning, making judgments, abstract thinking. They also regulate how we act upon our emotions and impulses. Changes in a person’s personality and social skills can occur from damage to this area.
2. TEMPORAL LOBE
2. TEMPORAL LOBES The temporal lobes play a role in auditory information processing, particularly the ability to hear and understand language. They are also concerned with memory, the emotions, the ability to enjoy music and to recognise and identify things we see, such as faces or objects.
CEREBELLUM
3. PARIETAL LOBES The parietal lobes are concerned with the perception of sensations, such as touch, pressure, temperature and pain. They deal with spatial awareness, such as our ability to find our way around a house, to drive a car and to reach for objects. They are also involved with the understanding of words and sentences, reading and writing and sometimes the ability to use numbers.
BRAIN STEM
Further information: For a dynamic view of the brain take a look at InformED’s Brain Map http://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/learning-strategies/
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7 | SYN APSE A BI: THE FACTS
Recovering from a Brain Injury is usually paired with a third Synapse resource – the Daily Activity Journal. This journal helps people impacted by brain injury and their carers keep track of the many appointments and activities needed to help with recovery when they leave the hospital or a brain injury unit. Designed alongside carers, family members and people impacted by brain injury, this resource is a must have in your toolkit especially in the early stages following a brain injury when it can be extraordinarily overwhelming for everyone, not to mention the often-immediate impacts of brain injury on memory and organising skills, and a sudden influx of medical and other appointments throughout the rehabilitation process. As someone with a brain injury returns to a new daily life, simple tools can be used to support greater independence, create a sense of autonomy and build confidence. Synapse developed a My Weekly Schedule to aid memory and assist with planning. The simple planner is a fridge magnet in the form of a whiteboard, which comes with whiteboard marker. We also continue to grow our online supports such as social media, personal stories, website, fact sheets, web forums and online connections, allowing the brain injury community to drive opportunities to learn from, and share with peers in an ever-increasing diversity of ways. Our monthly email newsletter is a great touch point from which to find out about and engage with people with a brain injury and their carers and family members. Remaining at the forefront of everything we do, is our commitment to ensuring that lived experience of brain injury and associated challenges remain the single most important influence over what we do and how we do it.
ACCESSING INFORMATION Info Hub Categories Popularity % Page views Effects of Brain Injury 45% 18547 Recovery & Rehab 12% 5015 Brain Injury Basics 11% 4597 Living with Brain Injury 11% 4240 Causes of Brain Injury 8% 3319 Family & Carers 7% 2742 In the Hospital 3.5% 1379 Legal and Advocacy 2.5% 880
Fact Sheets Popularity Page Title
Total Users:
Sessions
Understanding challenging and complex behavours
9786
Perseveration (Repetition)
7965
Coma and brain injury
5644
Anoxic and Hypoxic Brain Injury (lack of oxygen)
5559
Support needs of carers
5513
Hearing problems after a brain injury
4831
Sleeping issues after a brain injury
4462
The ABC Approach to Behaviour Support
3559
Nutrition, diet and brain injury
3310
Motivation and initiation (Adynamia)
2732
Memory Problems and Tips
2551
Attention and concentration problems
2363
Impulsive behaviour
2295
Sensory and perceptual problems
2241
90,978
Page Views:
183,081
Average monthly users
7,580
100
Over fact sheets revised for 2021
Percentage of site visitors going to info hub.
70%
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OUR P EOP LE
KEEPING IDENTITY STRONG We talk about a ‘family’ culture, but that’s about much more than how we relate to each other within the work context. It’s about respecting one another; not just an employee, but as a son, a sister, a parent, a friend, a part – and a product – of our individual and collective life experiences. We bring to our work these experiences, these struggles, achievements and insights brightening our curiosity to learn about others. Our culture is much greater than the sum of these parts. We preference those differences and linkages, so our workforce is strong and resilient together – a workforce that feels both respected and connected – a workforce that feels.
It’s about our hunger to give voice to what matters, the real experiences of real people across Australia.
Our deep commitment to moving our workforce towards a true representation of community and of country is not an aspiration, to not do so is in fact, a deal breaker. That means increasing diversity, inclusion and equity at every opportunity. And we do so not just because it’s the ‘right’ thing to do, but because our team must bring their knowledge of their own communities, cultures, families and lived experiences into all we do, if we are to truly respect the voice of lived experiences as our guide. This both elevates our awareness and embeds skills and knowledge equipping us to deliver even more creative, connected and responsive solutions. We give voice to the wisdom, the people, the courage existing in our communities, our teams, our supporters and partners. It’s about passionately remaining so curious about what is indeed possible that we simply don’t stop asking or expecting more of each other, even when things get tough. And we recognise we can’t do this alone. How we connect with genuine desire and curiosity to hear one another and learn from one another is the foundation of our identity as an organisation. Our identity is the product of those that walk alongside us, influence us, strengthen us,
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question us and hold us accountable for always being the best we can be. It’s about our hunger to give voice to what matters, the real experiences of real people across Australia. Recognising that the very fabric of our communities is the individuals, the connections, the passions and the individual and shared experiences that make it up. We are those individuals. We are that community. Only by continually strengthening this representation can we ensure we have the life experiences, the perspectives, the understanding and the curiosity that drives new solutions. We know we must always put brain injury on the agenda, but we also understand brain injury is experienced in many different ways based on the life experiences of a person, their support networks, their history, their culture, their goals, and their socio-economic position. We therefore must represent in our teams, the full diversity of life experiences upon which brain injury impacts. Only with this knowledge in our networks can we listen deeply to the Synapse Way. We know that lived experience is critical to understanding life, but we know also, that specialist knowledge and understanding of how brain injury impacts is what sets us apart. This is how we work. This is the Synapse Way. We will continue to engage with schools, universities, employment and other related service systems and organisations to build improved awareness of brain injury. This is critical as with this improved awareness we also contribute and inspire the next generation of our workforce that will sustain specialists in our field. It’s the combination of these elements that ensure we continue to grow across Australia with a network of relationships and teams bringing the best brain injury knowledge to the diversity of communities, individuals and families we walk beside.
OUR P EOP LE
LIVING THE SYNAPSE WAY The heart of Synapse is found in the network of connections and relationships between people who are committed to challenging the status quo. We are a team that reflects the very diversity of the communities, experiences and environments within which we operate.
Uncle Adrian Padmore Community Research and Engagement Officer “I like working at Synapse as the staff are friendly and made me feel welcome from the first day I started here; and my cultural knowledge and advice are valued. I feel my comments are listened to and put into practice.”
Julian Saavedra
Kylie Rixon
Catherine Wang
Options Support Officer & BrainBank Panellist
Senior Research Assistant
Support Coordinator
“It is so very important to me to know that the work I do will help some of the most marginalised and disadvantaged people. This knowledge keeps me wanting better for our community. I love knowing I play a part – albeit a very small part – in creating a better future for all Australians.”
“I love working at Synapse as I feel very supported in my role as a Support Coordinator and I am able to make an impact in the lives of people with disability with the great work culture and support I get every day.”
“Working at Synapse has been a blessing. I was able to return to work (after my brain injury) doing what I love: languages, sharing my story and talking to people. I hope we can keep sharing this valuable information about brain injury with as many people as possible.”
Aunty Di Noah Lifestyle Support Worker “It’s a different atmosphere, a different feeling. This place [Warner Street] is like you’re living in your community… there’s a special connection I would say, spiritually.”
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OUR P EOP LE
LIVING THE SYNAPSE WAY
We build relationships We listen to understand We are creative We are courageous We are here for each other 24
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C ONNEC T ING E V IDENCE W I T H P R A C T ICE
PARTNERING FOR IMPACT We know to best serve Australians with brain injury, we need to take an holistic approach. That means looking at every curve and intersection of life, where brain injury can make things more challenging. In doing so, we magnify our vision and our potential impact. This view allows us to explore new models of operating and resourcing, so we can meet the needs of people with brain injury across all aspects of their life, not only when brain injury dominates those challenges. At the shops, receiving health care, leaving school, crafting a career path, becoming (and being) a parent, during retirement, and while accessing aged care. We’re fiercely committed to applying a brain injury lens to the things that happen in everyone’s lives. These are the moments where opportunities to flourish can otherwise be met with inadequate resources and understanding that instead limits this same opportunity. Underpinning that thinking is our need to build strong evidence and be creative in seeking the partnerships and investment that is driven by a commitment to real, measurable and lasting social impact. Investment in a vision that extends effort beyond election cycles or changes in government. Investment not limited by government portfolios or single-issue silos but instead they are enhanced by them. As such, we have continued to explore relationships with impact investors and philanthropists that share this vision. We continue to seek partners whose appetite for this change gives strength to our mission of ensuring the rights of people impacted by brain injury by connecting knowledge, policy, services and systems.
focus on not only understanding our impact but qualifying it. Knowing our impact ensures we can build evidence that influences the national and global conversation about brain injury while inviting new partners, investors and philanthropic supporters that not only see these connections but want to actively enable them, to join with us to create change. To do this we continually must seek alternative perspectives looking at things differently and asking new questions. We need to take a step back and grasp the bigger picture of community and country, and to understand their innumerable impacts (seen and unseen, spoken and unspoken) on the lived experience of brain injury. That new perspective must also be applied to how we deliver those services – creating space to consider better ways of doing so and the organisations with whom we invite partnership. Success will be predicated on our ability to match sectors/ customers with services that solve real problems. But leading the way, testing and innovation are key, and we give ourselves permission to not always get it right – without a commitment to bravery, we can’t hope to succeed.
We continue to seek partners whose appetite for this change gives strength to our mission.
We are honoured so many across Australians reach out to us, recognising we are resolute in our pursuit of improving outcomes for people impacted by brain injury and the many aspects of social and economic disadvantage that can too often accompany this. We continue our strong focus on listening to those we connect with every day, so we can advance our
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PAR T NER ING F OR IMPA C T
SCREENING TOOL IDENTIFIES COGNITIVE DIFFICULTIES The rate of disability among Indigenous people is almost twice as high as non-Indigenous people. By any measure, Indigenous people with a disability are among the most disadvantaged members of the Australian community. They often face multiple barriers to meaningful participation in their own – and in the wider – community, facing double disadvantage because of discrimination based on culture as well as disability. Frequently individuals find themselves engaged in other systems (criminal justice, domestic violence, mental health, out-of-home care, drug and alcohol services, etc.) as a direct result of not having identified difficulties that may be caused or compounded by disability. Largely these individuals are not known to the service system and where they are, the service system generally lacks the cultural competence to respond with services that are relevant. This means people’s needs and capabilities can be misunderstood, and people often miss out on appropriate supports. This can have enormous health and social consequences.
This means people’s needs and capabilities can be misunderstood, and people often miss out on appropriate supports.
Together with Elders, Synapse developed Australia’s only culturally appropriate and culturally sensitive process for identifying brain injury and complex disability in Indigenous peoples. The Guddi Way Screen is not diagnostic; it flags potential areas of concern in cognitive functioning and recommends practical support strategies and referrals. We know that to meet eligibility criteria for government systems or services, diagnosis is frequently unhelpful.
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The word ‘Guddi’ means Come Home, Come Heal, Come Rest in the traditional language of the Kuku Yalanji peoples of Far North Queensland. We work with organisations and agencies, nationally, to educate and create foundations to improve the cultural capacity and understanding of brain injury to aid more culturally responsive services for Indigenous people with brain injury. The Guddi Way Screen is an example of the way Synapse uses its research and evidence to build programs and services that make a difference. We know that the evidence drawn from research must be simply the starting point in a delivery system that works in the real world and not just in academia. The next step is ensuring tools and supports are built using that evidence as a key ingredient to change. Improving accessibility to the Guddi Way Screen nationally, Synapse has undertaken significant work over recent years to build the tool into an online, secure and automated platform. This interface allows a suitably trained person to undertake the screening of a person in real time, with the immediate generation of scoring and outcome reports. These are intended to guide understanding of the likely impacts of cognitive difficulties on a person as well as identify necessary referrals should further assessment or diagnosis be necessary. This online interface ensures accessibility across Australia, while safeguarding the cultural integrity of the screen and the quality of the screening process, scoring and reporting.
ADVOCATING FOR CHANGE
‘JUST A DRAFT’ STILL MEANS IT WAS - OR IS - IN THE MIX Note: This letter is but one example of the extensive advocacy work undertaken by Synapse. We listened deeply to those impacted by brain injury and professionals across the spectrum to give voice to the evidence. Evidence that is drawn from both scientific and academic contexts, but importantly grounded in life and real world application. We do not accept shortcuts that discount the very real impact of brain injury, and in turn systemically limiting the very supports that can and should make a difference.
The leaking of draft changes to the NDIS strikes a blow not just to those potentially affected, but at the very heart of what could, and should, be a life and society-changing scheme, writes Adam Schickerling, National Director of Strategy and Engagement at Synapse. As featured in ProBono Australia Last week the disability sector was left gobsmacked by the leaking of draft changes to NDIS legislation, which proposed denying funding to Australians with acquired brain injuries and foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Now of course it was ‘just’ a draft – apparently one of 78 no less – but where’s the comfort in that? When NDIS funding signals the difference between a secure, empowered life and a struggle to simply exist, having your condition considered for excision from the scheme is nothing short of a body-blow. The fact that you’ve escaped the axe this time seems more like a stay of execution than a cause for celebration. To be honest, there are many things about this situation that confound me. Not least the fact that exclusion by condition seems to be an additional assault on the core principles of the NDIS. We’re told that functional capacity is the measure of need, not a diagnosis. Yet, in the next breath (or should I say draft) whole diagnoses are in the mix. And, yes, you can say again it was ‘just a draft’, but SOMEBODY, SOMEWHERE, thinks it merits consideration. How on earth is that even possible? Brain injury, including FASD, is already under-diagnosed and significantly unrecognised by society at large. Add into that the complication of cognitive impairment making it rather difficult to identify and self-report functional impacts, and you’re heading into perfect storm territory. But step into the shoes of someone with a brain injury for just a moment, and there can be no question that their needs – though diverse – are very real. Imagine never being able to enjoy a book, because you can’t remember the page you just read? Or struggling to learn any new skills because you don’t retain information? What if you couldn’t recall how to use your washing machine, remember to shower or pack your child’s school lunch?
How would it feel to be written off by the job market, be perpetually isolated or struggle to relate to your own family because your personality has completely changed? Then imagine experiencing all those things while your body looks exactly the same, so that no one understands that you’re fighting an invisible battle and facing challenges they can’t even comprehend. That’s why I want to invite the NDIA to better understand the people whose lives they’re toying with. Don’t talk to me, talk to Jordan who only ever wanted to go to university, but instead needs a support worker to remind him that he’s already eaten lunch; talk to Anne-Maree who had to fight for recognition of her injury, even though she struggled to speak and walk; and Colleen who just wants to feel ‘seen’ and part of her community – just one friend would be enough. These are real people who need real support – not more uncertainty and more ‘othering’. And when we’ve done that, let’s think about the people in prisons who’re also apparently facing the loss of NDIS supports. We aren’t talking about removing privileges, NDIS supports are basic human rights – like receiving health care and having your hygiene needs met. And not only that, it’s time we gave real consideration to the criminalisation of disability – the people who have probably ended up in prison because they haven’t been able to access appropriate diagnosis and support in the first place. The people whose intellectual and cognitive challenges – like impulse control, impaired judgement, inability to meet Centrelink obligations or adhere to social norms – have caused them to fall foul of society. And then, instead of seeing the problem and creating solutions, we punish. At which point the cycle of disconnection becomes embedded – a lifetime of encountering social systems that people don’t understand and can’t navigate, and which further traumatise, exclude and impact their ability to live well or contribute. Disheartening isn’t it? Just one more big can of worms Australia – and our newest NDIA Minister, Linda Reynolds – needs to be prepared to open.
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AD V OC AT ING F OR C H ANGE
SYNAPSE HELPS UNCLE ALLAN FIND A PLACE TO CALL HOME When supporting him, it’s not just thinking about his Traumatic Brain Injury, but also taking into account all of the other mental and social factors affecting Uncle as a person.” Prior to linking with Synapse, 67-year-old Uncle experienced long-term homelessness. He currently has poor mental health. To compound his feelings of disconnection, Uncle Allan is a Stolen Generation survivor. With this knowledge, Sarah helped him complete and submit an application for the Stolen Generations Reparations Scheme in September. They are waiting to hear back on the progress of the application.
Uncle Allan first connected with Synapse in February 2020. Synapse’s Sarah was chosen as his Support Coordinator to assist with his NDIS plan. Over the past 14 months, Sarah and Uncle Allan have shared many stories as they’ve grown to know one another. “I have learnt from Uncle, the things that are really important to him. It’s been so important to find the right services that are culturally connected as well as allied health supports that can assist Uncle Allan,” Sarah said.
During Uncle Allan’s recent hospitalisation, a decision was made that it was unsafe for him to return to his Department of Housing unit. As there were no other accommodation options available, Uncle Allan was discharged into an aged care facility. The aged care environment was unsuitable for Uncle, and he did not want to be there. He left the facility multiple times as he said it just simply did not feel like home. He loved the staff, and loved the other people there, but it just wasn’t where he needed – or wanted – to be.
And you best believe I put him on every community housing waitlist I could get my hands on! At one point, I had Uncle on over seven different waitlists. “I have also had to assist Uncle transition out of hospital and into a tenancy on two occasions. This transition included organising in-home support, community support, nursing assistance and linking him back in with organisations like Aboriginal Legal Service, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS) and Micah Projects – services he was previously accessing prior to his hospitalisations. “Throughout the course of the last year or so, I have really had to take an holistic approach to Uncle Allan’s supports.
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Despite the barriers with the current housing market, Uncle was determined to move out of the facility, with Sarah’s support. Sarah worked alongside Micah Projects to put together a strong Department of Housing transfer application. She also organised for an occupational therapist to write further supporting documentation adding credibility to the application. “I visited Uncle frequently while he was in the aged care facility just to assure him there were people working on
AD V OC AT ING F OR C H ANGE
SYNAPSE HELPS UNCLE ALLAN FIND A PLACE TO CALL HOME getting him out of there – as sometimes both he and us felt like we weren’t moving forward or moving quickly enough,” Sarah said. Once Uncle was on the waiting list, Sarah was able to submit applications for community housing initiatives. “And you best believe I put him on ever community housing waitlist I could get my hands on! At one point, I had Uncle on over seven different waitlists,” Sarah said. “After about six months, we finally heard back from a provider letting us know they had a vacancy they thought would be suitable. I organised a viewing and called Uncle straight away to let him know. We went and viewed the unit together the following week. “Straight away Uncle loved it and wanted to move in. I helped him with all the necessary paperwork, gathered all the information and submitted his application.” And then she hit a roadblock. Uncle’s Department of Housing application was rejected as the department believed the aged care facility was a suitable housing solution for him. “The community housing provider then rejected his application as you cannot live in community housing
without being on the waiting list with the Department of Housing. I called in a favour, and asked them to please not reject the application, and to give me some time to try and sort this out,” Sarah said. “And after some more hard work and advocating for Uncle’s needs, we managed to flip the decision around pretty quickly – in fact, it was the same week!” Finally, some good news … Uncle’s application was approved! The next step was the move. Uncle didn’t have furniture or homewares (or any way of getting there). “I also used the great resource of Facebook Marketplace to assist Uncle to obtain any items he was missing and found a moving truck services at such short notice,” Sarah said. Uncle is now settling into his new place and greatly enjoying his independence. In his own home. A home that he chose. “The aged care facility has reached out to me and let me know they miss his jokes and sense of humour!” Sarah said. Thank you to Uncle Allan for his permission to tell this story.
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A C K NOW LEDGEMEN T AND FUNDER S
THANK YOU FOR HELPING US HELP OUR COMMUNITY, YOUR COMMUNITY We couldn’t do what we do without the people who believe in and support us whether that be through funding or partnering with us to help further our work. You are integral to our success – thank you.
Funding bodies:
• Les Clarence and family, donor
• Australian Government Department of Social Services
• Helen Stevenson, donor
• Australian Government Department of Health (My Aged Care)
• Beans 4 Brains fun run organisers, David and Nick Boulter
• NSW Government Department of Health
• Geoff Ross Endowment Giving Fund
• NSW Government Department of Community & Justice
• Trevor Kelly, donor and former Headwest member
• NSW Government Insurance and Care (iCare) • National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland (NiiSQ) • Queensland Government Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
• Music for the Brain organisers, Dave and Laurene Best
Gifts in Wills: • In memory of Bernard Corfield • Estate of the late Isabel Anne Oldfield • Estate of the late Richard John Graham
• National Disability Insurance Agency • Private investors and trusts
A special thanks to: • The John Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, Queensland • James Cook University, Queensland • Australian Government’s Healthdirect • Clayton Utz
If you are interested in working with us or supporting what we do at Synapse – either as a donor, a partner organisation or in community fundraising – we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at enquiries@synapse.org.au
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FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2021 Income For the year ended 30 June 2021 SOURCES OF INCOME 10,000
2021
2020
2019
9,000
SOURCES OF INCOME
8,000 7,000 10,000 6,000 9,000 5,000 8,000 4,000 7,000 3,000 6,000 2,000 5,000 1,000 4,000 0 3,000 2,000
2021
Cwth Govt Contracts
State Govt Contracts
Service Fees
COVID 19 Stimulus Income
8,000
SOURCES EXPENDITURE For the year ended 30OFJune 2021
2,000
Donations & Partnerships
Tenant Income
Other Income
Cwth Govt Contracts
State Govt Contracts
Service Fees
COVID 19 Stimulus Income
Donations & 2021 Partnerships
Tenant 2020 Income
Other 2019 Income
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19 StimulusNDIS Income Donations &COVID Partnerships Income Other Inc
COVID 19 Stimulus Income Other Income Recurrent Grants Non Recurrent G
Rental Income
Donations & Partnerships
NDIS Inc
COVID 19 Stimulus Income
Other In
4%
4%
6%
3% 6% 1%
2021
2020
3%
2019 4%
4%
6% 73%
3% 6% 1%
3%
SOURCES OF EXPENDITURE 2021 Employee Expenses
Interest Payable
Client Support Services
Depreciation IT Consultancy Property & Expenditure Fees Expenses Amortisation
Other Expenses
1,000 0
Non Recurrent Gr
Service Fees
SOURCES OF EXPENDITURE
Expenditure
7,000 10,000 6,000 9,000 5,000 8,000 4,000 7,000 3,000 6,000 2,000 5,000 1,000 4,000 0 3,000
SOURCES OF INCOME 2021
Fees Rental Income Recurrent Grants Service Non Recurrent Grants & Partnerships NDIS Inco ServiceDonations Fees Rental Income
9,000
10,000
2019
Recurrent Grants
1,000 0
2020
Employee Expenses Interest Paid Employee Expenses
Interest Payable
Client Support Services
SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
Depreciation IT Consultancy Property & Expenditure Fees Expenses Amortisation
Other Expenses
IT Expenditure Depreciation
Property
Client Support Services Consultants Other Expenditure
73%
FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2021 Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income For the year ended 30 June 2021
30 June 2021
30 June 2020
$
$
Operating Revenue
14,722,176
13,639,765
Accountancy and Auditor’s Remuneration
(23,000)
(23,858)
Advertising and Promotions
(27,505)
(87,856)
Client Support Services
(900,673)
(630,475)
Computer Expenses
(461,215)
(323,128)
Consultancy Fees
(595,413)
(671,080)
Depreciation and Amortisation Expense
(528,457)
(534,060)
Employee Benefits Expense
(10,018,794)
(9,252,412)
Finance Costs and Charges
(75,205)
(113,534)
Insurance
(104,147)
(85,813)
Legal Expenses
(107,452)
(25,638)
(54,151)
(54,368)
Office Expenses
(245,655)
(228,499)
Other Expenses
(251,254)
(216,895)
Property Expenses
(368,784)
(343,188)
0
(736)
960,471
1,048,225
0
0
960,471
1,048,225
Motor Vehicle Expenses
Gain/(Loss) on Disposal of Assets Operating Surplus / (Deficit) for the year Non-Operating Activities Surplus / (Deficit) for the Year
Other Comprehensive Income Revaluation of Land and Buildings
0
0
Total Other Comprehensive Income
0
0
960,471
1,048,225
Total Comprehensive Income for the Year
SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
| 33
FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2021
Statement of Financial Position For the year ended 30 June 2021
30 June 2021
30 June 2020
$ $ CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents
8,024,837
7,517,237
Trade and Other Receivables
1,130,483
1,347,064
Other Current Assets
154,053
128,412
Total Current Assets
9,309,373
8,992,713
NON-CURRENT ASSETS Property, Plant and Equipment
12,016,783
12,313,130
1,359,041
1,478,176
Other Non-Current Assets
0
0
Total Non-Current Assets
13,375,824
13,791,306
Total Assets
22,685,197
22,784,019
Right-of-use Assets
CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and Other Payables
1,075,947
1,832,667
Contract Liabilities
2,542,745
2,870,556
Employee Provisions
659,625
538,632
Lease Liabilities
138,151
129,901
4,416,468
5,371,756
Total Current Liabilities
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Borrowings
4,018,088
4,018,088
151,285
196,544
1,014,713
1,113,459
40,000
40,000
Total Non-Current Liabilities
5,224,086
5,368,091
Total Liabilities
9,640,554
10,739,847
13,044,643
12,044,172
Employee Provisions Lease Liabilities Provision for Lease Make Good
Net Assets
EQUITY Accumulated Surplus Property Revaluation Reserve Total Equity
34
|
SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
11,409,070
10,448,599
1,635,573
1,635,573
13,044,643
12,084,172
FINANCIAL SUMMARY 2021
Statement of Cash Flows For the year ended 30 June 2021
30 June 2021
30 June 2020
$ $ CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Receipts from Donations, Grants and Client Related Activities Payments to Suppliers and Employees Interest Received Finance Costs Net Cash Generated from Operating Activities
14,609,429
13,893,100
(13,804,671)
(11,412,280)
1,519
4,189
(51,210)
(87,183)
755,067
2,397,826
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of Property, Plant and Equipment
(70,127)
(64,785)
Total Non-Current Assets
(70,127)
(64,785)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Repayment of Lease Liabilities
(177,340)
(132,041)
Net cash used in financing activities
(177,340)
(132,041)
Net (Decrease)/Increase in Cash Held
507,600
2,201,000
Cash and Cash Equivalents at the beginning of Financial Year
7,517,237
5,316,237
Cash and Cash Equivalents at the end of Financial Year
8,024,837
7,517,237
SYN AP SE ANNUAL REPORT 2021
| 35
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