“Why do you think someone would ask you ‘How do you identify?'”
What label/s do you use to describe yourself? It’s a fair question to ask because to relate and connect in the social world we need to define and differentiate. Labels are useful, they give us an indication of a person’s lived experience, orientations, inclinations, preferences, political leanings, and how they navigate the world. I could […]
How we shine and sparkle helps us imagine and create an expansive future
In line with the 2024 Mardi Gras theme of ‘Our Future,’ I’d like to share with you how that would ideally be like for a queer, non-binary, transgender person who lives with complex disabilities. I’d like to experience a future that uses our collective experiences, a future that validates and values new ways of […]
Qualities and outcomes of effective support for people with disability
We celebrated International Day of People with Disability on December 3rd – just before Christmas and New Year. And as with everything, the disability community has a wide range of views as to whether and how it should be celebrated – and each of these perspectives is valid in its own way. So for me, […]
The Event Accessibility Checklist for Safe and Inclusive Gatherings
Accessibility at all venues and gatherings of people with disability must be given important consideration. Events such as an open-air concert, a sporting event, or a conference need to be inclusive and easily accessible for everyone. It is more than providing a ramp or providing enough space for a wheelchair to pass through. Event organisers […]
Guide to Finding the Right NDIS Support Coordinator For You
An NDIS Support Coordinator can help an individual with a disability to have access to available services to live an empowered and self-directed life. A Support Coordinator will work closely with you or a loved one living with a disability to help ensure that you achieve a good outcome from your NDIS plan. So it […]
Raising our expectations of and for people with disability
Society’s expectations of people with disability are generally far too low. I’ve always said that we should do what we can to change that perception. It starts with active listening, offering choices and holding everyone to a higher standard. It involves assuming ability first and adjusting our support based on what we need. It means […]
Building Connection and Social Inclusion
I see life as like eating an ice cream – it’s often difficult, sometimes messy, but always enjoyable .… if you can find the sweetness in it! And it’s true. Living with cerebral palsy affects my whole life, and gives me my fair share of challenges. But my life is still pretty big, busy and […]
How to Help Improve Nutrition for People with Disabilities
Making choices about your food, drink and dining experience means you can consume the foods you want, in the way you want, however people sometimes have difficulty making healthy food choices. As a healthy diet is important for health and wellbeing, it can help to establish good habits. If you or your loved one is […]
5 Home Activities for People with Disabilities
Keeping engaged in life’s activities is important for health and wellbeing. To be engaged, activities need to be meaningful and personalised to the individual. For a person living with disability, engaging in meaningful activities that focus on their strengths and abilities can help them have a sense of purpose, learning and develop and/or maintain independence. […]
How to Help Maintain Professional Boundaries in Disability Support Work
Trust is important for any relationship to work, and this especially holds true in Disability Support. Good rapport and confidence help cultivate successful working relationships. Support Workers need to help make our Members feel at ease when relating to them. It is also recommended to establish professional boundaries in Disability Support Work. Setting clear professional […]