Believing in better : steps to an ordinary life for your family member with a disability : a workbook / compiled by Lorna Sullivan for the Belonging Initiative.

Includes bibliographical references.

Introduction. - Step 1 - CREATING A VISION. - Why do you need a vision? - How to develop and document your vision. - Using your vision. - Worksheet 1: Building the vision. - Making a plan. - Staying on track. - Holding on to your vision. - Worksheet 2: Keeping the vision clear. - Step 2: SURROUNDING YOURSELF WITH SUPPORT. - The protection of people. - A circle of support. - Friendships and relationships. - Worksheet 3: Relationship map. - Step 3 - HAVING A HAPPY HOME. - What is a home? - Ways for people with disabilities to have their own homes. - Challenges you may face. - Worksheet 4: Get talking about home. - Step 4 - MAKING THE DECISIONS. - Assuming authority. - The natural authority of families. - Individualised funding. - Family governance and family management. - Practicalities. - A final word. - Worksheet 5: Making sound decisions. - Step 5 - LEGAL AND FINANCIAL STRUCTURES. - Professionals and your vision. - Worksheet 6: Preparing information. - Family trusts. - Worksheet 7: A letter of hope. - Trustees. - The roles of the trustees. - Wills. - Guardianship. - Government benefits. - Worksheet 8: Trusts, guardianship and your will. - Believing in better. - Resources.

"There is no better time than now for you and your family member with a disability to start imagining and building a more fulfilling life.
[This book] provides you with the tools and the encouragement you need to take the steps towards a more positive future for your family, from creating a vision and surrounding yourself with support to dealing with legal and financial details. Each step is reinforced by practical worksheets and interspersed with real-life stories to inspire you." - BOOK JACKET