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The NDIS reform bill has been passed – will it help get disabled people ‘back on track’?

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The government has passed the law which will pave the way in which for major reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

In late March, many in the incapacity community were surprised when the federal government introduced recent laws to get the NDIS “back on track”. The Bill’s journey through Parliament was demanding, and lots of in the incapacity community were highly critical of it, even calling for the whole abandonment of current reforms.

NDIS Minister Bill Shorten said on Wednesday that an agreement had been reached with states and territories on how they might work together on this system. The provision of “core” disability supports and services outside the NDIS has been some extent of contention.

Why is that this bill so controversial? And now that the revised reforms have been passed, what’s next?

A protracted and winding road

When the NDIS Reform Bill was tabled, there was no exhibition design published earlier. This meant there was no public discussion and although some organisations representing disabled people got details, were asked to sign confidentiality agreements to stop them from talking about it. This was contrary to the recommendations of the NDIS review that the foundations and changes must be co-designed with disabled people and follow principle “nothing about us, without us.”

When the bill was submitted to parliament, two fundamental processes took place – NDIS Overview and royal commission on disability – which made recommendations on services and supports for disabled people, to which the Government has not yet responded.

Since then, there has been a response to the incapacity royal commission that has been widely criticised as “bland and disappointing”. But we’ve got yet to see the federal government’s response to the recommendations of the NDIS review published late last 12 months. This means the federal government is passing laws before it has set out what changes it will make in response to the review.

Further investigation

The bill was submitted to Senate Committee for further investigation. In what was to grow to be an everyday theme, submission deadlines were tight, with hearings in late May and a final report due in mid-June. However, a whole lot of reports received from the disabled community.

A staggering number amendments to current laws, including how NDIS support is defined and human rights are taken under consideration.

The bill was passed by the House of Representatives in early June, but the federal government didn’t gain enough support to pass it within the Senate and was reference was made for the second meeting of the committee.

Again, a whole lot of reports were received with people and groups mentioning the restrictions of the bill and calling for its non-enactment. The Commission recommended the bill must be passed directly, despite renewed resistance from the Greens.

Today it happened.



Concerns about cost-shifting

Given the federal government’s aim to contain costs and programme expansion, the incapacity community is anxious that this decision will lead to cuts to services and supports.

Some in the neighborhood have accused the federal government of stoking public outrage over this system, saying there’s serious fraud and spending on things like sexual serviceswhich only a small variety of people can receive under this system.

One of the solutions to reducing the prices of the programme, suggested by the NDIS review, was to develop a core support strategy that may relieve a few of the pressure. In December last 12 months, National Cabinet agreed to share the prices of this support equally between the Commonwealth and the states and territories, and in January the Commonwealth committed $11.6 million over two years to support the event and implementation of the core support strategy.

Meanwhile, states and territories have opposed the bill from the outset, likely because of concerns that changes to this system would transfer facets of services and supports from the NDIS to states and territories.

The disability community also shares concerns about essential supports. Given that they usually are not in place and have five years to transition, changes to the NDIS could lead to gaps in services and supports, and people with disabilities may very well be left without them.

Minister Shorten allayed concerns and said he was able to force states to take on additional responsibilities. This process has caused a big rift with vital partners on this and other policies and programs.

This week the federal government he admitted participants could have to pay for the required NDIS needs assessment. This can be a big cost to participants and will mean that some wouldn’t have access to the NDIS, creating a big equity issue.

Until the very last moment, groups resembling Every Australian counts AND People with disabilities Australia urged the federal government to stop or reject the bill for fear of harming NDIS participants.

What’s next?

The government has lost quite a lot of political currency among the many disabled community. It is probably going that any future laws or changes to this system rules will be met with significant opposition.

And now that the bill has been passed, significant work will should be done to ascertain what these reforms will appear to be in practice. The government has said it will co-design them with the community, but many remain doubtful considering the journey to this point.

These fears have come true in the present situation. consultation on how eligible supports must be defined within the NDIS. While these details have significant implications for the way this system will operate, the consultation period was initially set at just two weeks. This has since been prolonged by one week. This short consultation window on such a vital issue could lead on to changes that significantly limit innovation and participant independence.

Unless the federal government really starts listening to disabled people, we will see the NDIS regress and far of the progress that has been made for the disabled community in recent times will be undone.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Method Man Says He ‘Doesn’t Want to Be Seen as a Sex Symbol’ and Wants to Blend In

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Method Man wants to be known for greater than just his looks. During a recent appearance on the show, he shared the importance of prioritizing respect over his status as a sex symbol.

On the show, Tamron Hall asked him about a quote from his 2023 speech. Men’s health cover. “In the article, you said, ‘I’m not a sex symbol.’ You said that sometimes you don’t want to be desired; you just want to be respected.” Hall also touched on Method Man’s tendency to take his shirt off in public, such as at a recent Usher concert: “How do you reconcile not wanting to be desired with constantly having your shirt unbuttoned?”

He quickly responded, “That’s the thing; now that I have it, I’m going to show it, but not for that reason.” The legendary rapper continued, “I’m showing it while I still have it. But that’s the thing, right? I love the admiration. I love it. Does it ever get awkward? Absolutely. Sometimes you just want to blend in, and I’m that type of person.”

Hall replied, “You can never fit in.” Method Man continued, “Sometimes I do. Again, I can appreciate the admiration. And then there are the only things where he’s like, ‘The Greatest Man Alive.’ I mean, you can pour fuel on the fire all you want, but honestly, I think we’re all beautiful and sexy in our own way, so let’s be sexy together.”

In his cover, the artist shared that he just isn’t a sex symbol. “That’s the fucking point, man. Put the words together. Sex and symbol. What’s the symbol? I ain’t doing nothing. So what’s the symbol?” he said. “I’m not gonna lie, I love every damn minute of it, but I don’t want to be that guy who, when the clock starts ticking, is still trying to be sexy.”

He continued, “I mean, Smokey Robinson will always be sexy to someone. I’m not using him as an example — I’m just saying that considering where Smokey is now, if Smokey was around at the same time as he was then, it would look ridiculous. And Smokey knew he was a sexy motherfucker. You get to a certain age where you just stop caring, and I think that’s the sexiest thing in the world.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Men bear the brunt of the ‘loneliness epidemic’ amid intense societal pressure

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A couple of weeks before Justin Bieber and his wife Hailey announced in May 2024 that they were expecting a baby, the pop icon posted a selfie of he looks tearful and desperate.

While media attention quickly focused on the pregnancy, little attention was paid to the significance of the male star and the future father publicly shares his sensitivity.

But Bieber’s social media post is noteworthy since it highlights his internal conflict.

Emotional pain is linked to serious health problems. Yet the public’s response to male displays of emotion and vulnerability is commonly minimized, if not dismissed. In response to Bieber’s tearful post, for instance, Hailey described it as “pretty crybaby.”

A yr ago, Canadian rapper Dax released the song “Being a person.” He said at the time: “This is a song that I put my heart into. I pray that it reaches everyone who needs it.”

The message of this song remains to be relevant today. Contains song lyrics:

How researchers Who study fatherhood and the roles that men play their familieswe recognize the loneliness and pain in these lyrics. We heard fathers describe the cost of attempting to keep their feelings in check.

IN the last study we conducted for 75 latest and expectant black fathers, they spoke of the need to deal with individual and collective trauma. This, they said, will ultimately help support their families. But they said resources to assist men with mental health are sometimes unavailable or very limited. They said they often feel invisible to health care providers.

“Being a father and a man,” one participant said, “you have to keep the peace and be strong on the outside. But on the inside, you know, you’re falling apart.”

Dax’s writing and our research reflect a perennial societal health concern—the deafening silence that typically surrounds men’s mental health issues.

The impact of isolation on men

In May 2023, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued a warning highlighting what he described as the epidemic of loneliness and isolation in the country. Our research confirms this plague.

Because men’s social support networks—colleagues, family, close childhood friends—are sometimes weaker than women’s, the epidemic disproportionately affects men. The resulting loneliness has very real health consequences.

Research shows that loneliness is related to negative health consequences, comparable to a better risk of heart disease and dementia.
Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images

In Murthy’s report, loneliness is related to negative health outcomes, including “a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia in older adults. In addition, a lack of social connections increases the risk of premature death by more than 60%.”

Although Murthy’s report focuses on each men and girls, research shows that it’s men are less likely than women to hunt mental health helpFurthermore, men have a more negative attitude towards searching for help and usually tend to discontinue treatment prematurely than women.

With these consequences in mind, a caring society might ask itself: Why do men bear the brunt of this health threat, and what will be done about it?

Redefining the value of men beyond just making a living

Many aspects can contribute to men feeling isolated and disconnected.

In “To Be A Man,” Dax points out one vital factor:

Traditional definitions of masculinity emphasize the importance of the man’s role as the family breadwinner.

Uncertain economy AND increasingly more expensive apartments and food prices make it unaffordable for a lot of men to offer financially for his or her families. These aspects also undermine men’s self-esteem and contribute to loneliness and feelings of alienation.

As partners and fathers, men are still often seen as inadequate in the event that they are unable to offer financially. And social norms emphasize that they are usually not valued for his or her abilities as caregivers, whilst they’re more involved in raising children than ever before.

This is detached from reality.

Men play a crucial role as caregivers of their children’s lives, in keeping with our research, and have a powerful influence on their children’s health and well-being. Men also find meaning of their role as fathers.

As Dax says:

The Cost of Suppressed Vulnerability

In addition to the pressure to offer for themselves, men must also overcome stereotypes that suggest they ought to be stoic and conceal their fears and sadness.

Here too, gender norms should be updated. Boys and men have to feel comfortable presenting their true, authentic selves to the world. When they suppress their vulnerability, it creates a barrier to searching for help. It also perpetuates stigma and the epidemic of loneliness.

A man sitting in a hospital room.
Men are less likely than women to hunt mental health help.
Getty photos

There is a fancy relationship between society’s assumptions and beliefs about men and fatherhood.

As a result, men are less likely than women to hunt mental health services. As a result, health care providers are they usually tend to underdiagnose and misdiagnose menFurthermore, when health resources are made available, they are sometimes not tailored to the needs of men.

Societal expectations can create unbearable pressure on men. And the most marginalized groups, as low-income black fathersbear a disproportionate burden, research shows. This has turn into more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, as Black fathers working in high-risk and essential jobs have prioritized supporting their children and families over their very own risks of infection and mental health.

As men proceed to redefine their roles inside families and communities, it is necessary for society to create an area that recognizes and accepts their vulnerability and full humanity in all social roles.

Men need an outlet for his or her pain. They would profit from relationships – with partners, family and friends – who support and nurture them in moments of joy and emotional challenges. Their loneliness will proceed to be disproportionate without the obligatory connection to services.

Men may consider participating in low-stakes discussion groups of their communities, online groups, and at their churches. They may additionally hunt down therapists in person or online for introductory sessions test the therapeutic interaction before establishing a more consistent pattern of therapeutic services.

In the song “To Be a Man” Dax sings:

As the Biebers adjust to life as parents, Justin can find people to talk over with about his experiences and emotions, individuals who see and appreciate him fully. And we hope that is the same for each man and father, living out of the highlight and doing the best they’ll for themselves and their family.


This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

ESScent of the week: Purple dreams come true with the latest fragrance from Parfums de Marly – Essence

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Remember when Rihanna he said that her reign just won’t let up? Well, neither will Parfums de Marly — especially with their recent purple reign.

I had been anticipating the release for weeks (like many of us), and after I finally got to smell it, I used to be absolutely blown away—in the very best way. You’d think I’d expect nothing less from one of my favorite area of interest perfume houses, but this scent was truly something special.

You know that feeling when a perfume is only for you? It’s rare, but when it happens, it’s magical. It’s shiny, floral, and absolutely charming — housed in a classy mauve bottle that is as stunning as the scent itself (but let’s be honest, all Parfums de Marly perfumes are masterpieces).

What stands out is the balance of fruit, florals, and a touch of powdery softness. It opens with mandarin and pear (two of my favorite notes) which are immediately uplifting. But once that violet petal shows up? Game over. It’s fresh without being too sweet, and I really like the way it dries all the way down to a smooth, creamy sandalwood finish. It’s a scent that feels each fun and complicated—perfect for a daytime brunch or an evening out.

There is something about Parfums de Marly that keeps them at the top of the area of interest fragrance game they usually prove it once more. Their scents aren’t just well-made; they evoke a mood, a sense, a vibration. They know the best way to create luxury without being over the top, and every of their scents looks like a piece of art. Whether it’s sensual, flirty or opulent, you realize you’re in for something special.

Why I find it irresistible: is a robust fragrance centered around a contemporary floral bouquet with fresh fruity and powdery notes. I really like the way it revolves around the violet petal, enhanced by the unique masculine-turned-feminine lavender. This lightness gives it an unsettling twist unlike the rest in my collection. In addition, the base notes of musk, patchouli and vanilla give a warm, velvety hug that lasts all day. At $375, it’s an investment, but well value it for its luxurious composition and longevity.

It’s not only me who can’t get enough of this scent — beauty lovers and scent connoisseurs all over the place are raving about it . In fact, #FragranceTok OGs like Zoe, Princess of PerfumeAND Karolina Stern have singled it out as a standout addition to Parfums de Marly’s already excellent offering, with some loving how the violet and sandalwood give it an unconventional twist. The purple bottle can be successful, attracting fans who appreciate the combination of elegance and playfulness.

But what really sets them apart is their ability to mix beautifully with other scents. , with a creamy sandalwood base, it begs to be mixed and matched. Which brings me to…

Perfect mixtures: If you like experimenting with scents like I do, you’ll have plenty of room to play with . For extra warmth, try layering it on yourself so as to add a comfortable, woodsy vibe. It enhances the sandalwood and adds extra depth. It’s also an awesome layering partner for floral days. Peony adds a soft, romantic touch to violets.

It’s a flexible fragrance that will be worn day or night. It has presence without being overpowering, and leaves a mark that’s each sophisticated and playful. As at all times, Parfums de Marly offers something special and is solely the latest example of their mastery of fragrance. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for?


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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