CEO Report
Although I have only recently commenced as CEO of Enhanced Lifestyles, I am pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to this year’s annual report. I’d like to thank Damien Hern, who served as Interim CEO from January to June for providing me with the insights necessary to write this report.
The achievements of this year demonstrate our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of people living with disability and their families. As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Enhanced Lifestyles remains dedicated to delivering exceptional services that empower and promote choice and control.
A year of adaptation
Over the past twelve months, we have once again experienced substantial growth and transformation across several aspects of our organisation. We are steadily expanding our service offerings, activating innovative technologies, and seeking to create a more seamless and complete experience for our customers. These efforts have seen 260% growth in Supported Independent Living (SIL) customers and 12% growth in Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching customers in the past 12 months. It is pleasing to see an increasing number of individuals requesting services from us; much of this demand has been in response to our excellent advertising campaign starring our very own customers (you can read more about this on page 9).
Customer-centred approach
Our customers and members continue to be at the heart of everything we do. We have focused our efforts on enhancing our person centred approach, tailoring our services to meet the unique support needs and goals of every customer. Through comprehensive assessments and personalised support plans, we have assisted our customers to achieve their goals with an emphasis on fostering greater independence and encouraging customer choice.
Collaborative partnerships
Achieving our ambition of delivering excellent services to our customers requires a collaborative effort. Over the past 12 months, we have been fortunate to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and service providers who have helped us on our journey. Our partnerships with like-minded community organisations have strengthened our ability to create an inclusive environment that promotes social integration and exciting opportunities for our customers. Over the next 12 months, we will focus on better integrating our office spaces and locations with local community connections and new service offerings for current and future customers.
Looking ahead
As we reflect on the growth and achievements of the past year, I am energised by the opportunities that continue to arise. Our strategic plan for 2023-2025 includes further expansion of our services, continued investment in customer facing systems and technology, and a continued commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. We believe this approach will provide us with the agility needed to navigate the challenges posed by the evolving NDIS landscape and recommendations from the recent Disability Royal Commission.
Thank you
In closing, I extend my most heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated Board and members, and the customers and families we have had the privilege to serve over the last 12 months.
It would be remiss to finish my report without acknowledging the hard work of our team. So, thank you to the Lifestyle Attendants who are on the ground delivering high quality, customer-centred services and covering shifts at the last minute to keep supports going. Thank you to the Service Delivery team who tirelessly coordinate a huge number of staff, supports, and customers every day. Thank you to the Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching team, whose advocacy, passion, and expert knowledge of the NDIS is invaluable to their customers. Thank you to our people in the Riverland and the Limestone Coast – remote working comes with many challenges that you overcome to provide the best service to regional customers. And lastly, thank you to the head office team, whose unwavering commitment to quality, communication, and support means our front-line staff can focus on doing what they do best.
Together, the team at Enhanced Lifestyles are committed to building a future where every individual can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
Tim Baker
Chief Executive Officer