December 3 every year is International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). At the Hessel Group office this week, we've enjoyed discussing how we could recognise this day and what our team could do in acknowledgement.
Behaviour Support Practitioner, Davor has let us in on some conversations he's had with our stakeholders recently. Below are some responses from Victoria who is a client, Laila who's son Phoenix is a client and Support Worker, Michelle who all spoke about what this day means to them:
Client: Victoria
Victoria is a mum to a beautiful young boy, she visually impaired, a NDIS participant and has a Support Worker to assist with her independence and the activities of her family. Let's learn more about her:
What is your favourite song? How does it make you feel?
My favourite song is “Crazy” by Seal, because the lyrics send the message of living life to the fullest.
What is your favourite sport (or hobby or food or movie or game)?
Basketball because it allows me to spend more time with my friends by spending time in the community and staying active.
Who are the people that help you the most?
All external providers and Hessel Group who support me in accessing the community, maintaining my home and strengthening my independence while caring for my son.
What was the best thing that happened to you this year?
I was able to access respite service with my support worker and visit the Gold Coast. This allowed me to utilise my funding by accessing various activities. This includes visiting theme parks.
What does the future hold for you?
Building my capacity in supporting and raising my son as independently as possible.
How would you challenge community attitudes about disability?
As an adult, I strongly believe that parents need to educate their children in the understanding of a person living with visible and physical disability. This includes emphasising the importance of using respectful terminology and respectful attitudes in the community.
At Hessel Group, many of our clients are children who we support in their homes, at our clinic, in school or within the community. Davor had a chat with one of our parents to gain their perspective on disability.
Parent: Laila and Son Phoenix
Laila is mum to you son Phoenix who is a NDIS participant receiving support through Hessel Group's Allied Health Services.
What services do you find most beneficial for your son, Phoenix?
Positive Behaviour Support, Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy, as well as community participation in swimming and being in a safe space with active activities suitable for his disability.
What makes your child happy?
Accessing playing on the playground, freedom to explore environments, learning with lots of stimulation with different sensory seeking needs.
What are some positive experiences from services you have received this year?
How well Phoenix has settled in school and commencement of consistent services which have benefited Phoenix development. As well as Rhiannon, Speech Therapist for supporting his communication through assistive technology.
How would you challenge community attitudes about disability?
I believe there is a severe lack in understanding especially in children diagnosed with neurological conditions and behavioural barriers. This limits children in reaching developmental milestone and making meaningful connections with their peers. It is important to acknowledge the individualised needs of a child living with learning disabilities.
Support Worker: Michelle Jolly
Michelle is a Support Worker who has worked with Hessel Group for 2 years. She is also studying for her Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) CHC33015 with Enhance Training. Davor spoke with Michelle about her work and experiences in the industry:
Why did you choose this line of work?
I always wanted to work in a rewarding industry! It is now important for me to finish my day feeling proud of making a difference for my clients.
What was your favourite thing about 2022?
The highlight of my year was supporting my client by going on a holiday, this allowed my client to experience something new and exciting.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
As a support worker I enjoy building rapport with my client and deliver person centred support. This allows me to implement change and increase quality of life.
What does IDPwD mean to you?
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is about advocating and accepting people with a disability and safeguarding their ability to have a voice in their communities.
How would you challenge community attitudes about disability?
I would like the community to understand people with disabilities have the right to exercise the same goals and aspirations others have, this includes but limited to, developing relationships, creating families and working.
We hope everyone enjoys IDPwD and can take a moment to reflect and think about someone you know with a disability or someone who works in the industry and is making a big difference.
Hessel Group is hiring for Support Workers apply here!
Learn about Hessel Group's NDIS, Disability, Allied Health and Support Services here!
Davor is part of our wider Allied Health Team of dedicated clinicians and therapists. We had a chat with our Occupational Therapist, Sarah about International Day for People with Disability, check it out below: