Community
Little Wren Co and Ability Network have moved forward with a merger

Ability Network and Little Wren Co have officially merged, bringing significant changes to the disability support space in the region. 

The announcement was finalised on Monday, 3 February, and marks a substantial expansion for Ability Network.

The company is set to take on 95 new clients in support coordination.

"This is a big expansion of our business," said Shane Kruger, CEO of Ability Network. 

"The 95 clients we take on will all be in the support coordination space, which is really exciting for us."

Support coordination, a key focus of the merger, helps clients navigate the system to find the best providers and services tailored to their needs and goals. 

Unlike direct support services, support coordination guides participants and ensures they receive the right mix of care and assistance.

Erin Green, CEO of Little Wren Co., will join Ability Network as the General Manager for Disability Services. 

Her expertise will help steer the combined organisation as it grows to meet the increasing demand for disability support services.

"Erin Green joining our leadership team is an exciting step forward," Mr Kruger said. 

"This merger combines Little Wren Co, the biggest support coordination business in Cowra, with Ability Network, the biggest disability support organisation in Cowra."

In addition to support coordination, Ability Network provides a wide range of direct support services, including personal care, community engagement, group programs, respite care, and transport for medical appointments. 

These services are designed to assist people with disabilities in living fulfilling and independent lives.

"We go into people's homes, provide personal care, run day programs, and offer short-term accommodation," Mr Kruger said.

"We also help with travel and transport around town for medical appointments,"

"Support coordination is an additional resource and capability that allows participants to have somebody guide them through the system and identify the best supports to meet their actual needs and goals," he said.

The merger comes during a significant change in the disability support policy landscape. 

With updates in managing support coordination, the expanded organisation is well-positioned to adapt and thrive in the evolving sector.

Mr Kruger also highlighted the nearing completion of Ability Network's new facility, which will help support the growing organisation. 

"The facility will be finished at the end of the month," he said.

With the merger complete, Ability Network and Little Wren Co's future looks bright as they work together to provide better services and support for the community.