Most people aren’t familiar with the term, “self-manage”. Basically, it means you’re in control and responsible for the hiring, management, and if needed, disciplining of your attendants. While self-management is about independence, it does not mean you are on your own. As part of the Direct Funding program, you will be able to access guidance from our Self-Manager’s Network (a grouping of other program participants) and your local Independant Living Centre Link opens in new tab. When you first start self-managing, you will have support from Direct Funding staff who work with new participants. You may also consider asking them to refer you to an experienced Self-Manager for peer support and advice around training or how to communicate effectively with your attendants. You can also ask experienced participants about their bookkeeper so you have some idea what services are offered by different bookkeepers in your community.
Other Direct Funding participants, can also be a great help during the hiring process. They’ll know of good and reliable attendants, and might be able to connect you to them. Since Direct Funding funds can’t go towards recruiting agencies, this is a good way to ‘vet’ potential employees.
Another perk of connecting with other Self-Managers is it can help make travelling easier. If your attendant can’t accompany you on a trip in Ontario, you may be able to find an experienced, local attendant through a Self-Manager in the local community.
Plus, it never hurts to share experiences with people who are similar to you. It helps build community as you share advice, tips and tricks.
There are plenty of ways to engage support. There’s real strength in numbers, and in having a good social network. More than 1,300 Self-Managers have found this to be true. You may, too.
