The Department of Social Services (DSS) has launched a new hotline to assist people with disability concerned about or affected by COVID-19.
The Department said the new service, Disability Information Helpline, would also support the person’s family, carers, support workers and service providers.
“The Disability Information Helpline is free, private and fact-checked,” the DSS said.
It said that when someone called the helpline the operator would listen carefully; use their connections to find things out, check the facts, and get information.
It said the operator would be able to transfer the caller to services that could help; to a phone counsellor for emotional support; and provide clear and accessible information.
The Department said the helpline was also accessible to people who required support in languages other than English via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) free of charge, which could be accessed through the Disability Information Helpline on 1800 643 787.
It said that people with a hearing or speech impairment could also call the National Relay Service on 133 677 for access to the Helpline.
It said the Helpline service could also be accessed with live chats online through its website.
Full details about the new Disability Information Helpline can be accessed on the DSS website at this PS News link.
