Welcome aboard!! As a Disability Liaison Officer/Adviser there is so much to learn and so little time but here are a couple of hints.
Do your homework
- Browse the ADCET database - there are articles, links and factsheets that will answer many of your questions. Refer to the news and events section for professional development opportunities
- Subscribe to the austed listserv which provides a forum for discussion of issues for disability practitioners.
- Familiarise yourself with the range of possible adjustments in course requirements, teaching, assessment or services and how these are arranged
- Understand the relevant legislation - inherent requirement and reasonable accommodation are big issues
- Find out how specialized services such as Auslan interpreters, notetakers and specialised equipment can be arranged
- Get to know your colleagues and the local politics - meet with other staff members on your campus, contact a DLO in a university or TAFE near you and get to know staff in disability employment agencies, CRS and other services
Consult with students
- Let students know about your role, services and availability – participation in student orientation activities and a brochure can inform students of your role, examples of assistance available, office location and work hours
- Survey on and off campus students re their needs – this will allow you to work towards improvements in accessibility, equipment and services, the nature and implications of their disability to find out whether adjustments
- Talk with the student to find out course requirements, implications of their disability and the kinds of services needed.
Physical access & equipment
Ensuring physical access and access to computers is not usually the role of the practitioner but you can contribute to improvements.
- Encourage your facilities management department to conduct regular access audits, including pathways, signage, steps and lighting
- Be aware of appropriate people to refer accessibility concerns to and become familiar with budget timeframes and processes
- Learn about assistive technology solutions - identify assistive technology suppliers and seek funding for required equipment.
Look after yourself
Practitioners are very committed people who sometimes work too hard. As a result burnout can occur easily. Some survival suggestions include:
- Identify networks and supports –. There are disability practitioner organisations in most regions that can provide support with issues and concerns.
- Make time to have lunch and other breaks and take regular holidays.
- Take time-in-lieu - know your manager’s/organisation’s policy and keep accurate records.
- Use stress-relief strategies and understand yourself - before things do get too much for you see a counsellor.
- Find a safe way to talk about issues and frustrations – have a drink with understanding colleagues