Braedon’s journey to becoming a support worker with Innovative Choices

Braedon is a 27-year-old support worker from Albury who was first involved with Cerebral Palsy Support Network four years ago.

Beginning his work as an M-POWER sessions leader and going to camps and being part of the social squad, Braedon now works as an Innovative Choices support worker as part of the CPSN team.

“Each and every person has an incredible story or inspiring attitude to share,” Braedon said.

Working in various supporting roles at CPSN, he enjoyed being able to work with large groups of participants but has found working closely with individuals to be an exciting opportunity.

Along the CPSN journey, Braedon met Liam, a participant with CP and they shortly formed a close bond.

Braedon now works as Liam’s support worker through the Innovative Choices program, which allows participants to engage with support workers who they know and trust, and who fit within their lifestyles and needs.

“It was great to have the freedom and scope to work with Liam’s goals and help achieve new levels of independence,” he said.

“I had always enjoyed my roles within CPSN…but support work with Innovative Choices offered a rare opportunity to create close relationships with a single person.”

Braedon loves spending time with Liam, explaining the program “allows individuals with cerebral palsy to live the life they want to, and have a brilliant time doing so.”

Currently studying a Master of Nutrition and Master of Osteopathy, Braedon has also found the flexibility of the Innovative Choices program to suit his personal commitments and interests.

“It’s helped me maintain sanity through eight years of study,” he said, “I never thought it was possible to have a job where I’m laughing most of the time whilst still being productive.

“As a support worker with Liam I have had an unbelievable amount of great memories.”

Some of their most unforgettable memories include days at the beach, arts and culture days at galleries and even travelling together and going to Movie World on the Gold Coast.

Braedon sees how the work of CPSN and the Innovative Choices program has been empowering families and individuals with cerebral palsy for many years now.

“CPSN and the extended family has been the most incredible community to be involved in,” Braedon said, “The clients are inspiring, and the families are incredible, I am always amazed by their endless energy.”

CPSN’s Innovative Choices program gives individuals and families the platform to engage support workers you know and trust, from within your own networks.

To learn more about the Innovative Choices program and how it can work for you as a participant or support worker, visit our website: https://cpsn.org.au/cpic/