Seeing the ability in disability

Today we are celebrating International Day of People with Disability, a day that aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability, celebrating their achievements and contributions.

Aligned to International Day of People with Disability Australia’s invite to share messages of inclusion and diversity around ‘seeing the ability in disability’, we are sharing some great Northcott customer and team member stories that truly showcase the ability in disability.

Seth has a passion for arts, colour and pop culture. He wrote a guest contributor article about how autism helps him explore and develop his creativity. He believes autism is sometimes a useful tool because it makes you think differently. .

Matt is a Support Worker at Northcott. He sees the fact of living with a disability as an opportunity to bring many different life experiences to the table, being an advocate and a voice for those who he works with. “It is vital for me to ensure that I empower people with disabilities to live life to the fullest. I love seeing the customers I work with receiving the right services and supports, to ensure that they are given the opportunity to blossom in society and show the world what they are capable of.”

Jayden has been working hard in building his confidence, he went from being in his room, not doing much, to being a Tamworth Country Music Festival Community Ambassador, acting as a guide for visitors enjoying the festival. “As an Ambassador, I get the opportunity to talk to people and communicate with everyone. It’s been a really fun time and I’ve been asked to do it again,” Jayden says. His mum Zandie says “It’s a big difference. He’s more confident. He’s more social and gives anything a go now. Two years ago he would have never dreamt of being a Festival Ambassador.”

Jackie – Not everything was roses for Jackie and Emma when they decided to move together back in 2018. They had to go through a long process to be able to access suitable housing options for them. However, their patience and persistence saw them moving early in 2020 and they’ve been having the best of times! “That first day I felt like running around the house shouting ‘hooray!’… [I was] very excited and relieved,” says Jackie. 

Join us in celebrating inclusion and diversity on International Day of People with Disability!