Local disability community celebrated at special free event

Newcastle residents can celebrate the disability community and find out about the Disability Royal Commission at a free event in Charlestown on Thursday 11 August.
Hosted by Your Story Disability Legal Support (Your Story), Disability Advocacy NSW and Interrelate, the Disability Royal Commission Information Afternoon Tea will be held at The Place Charlestown Community Centre from 1pm to 2.30pm.
Your Story Director Susannah O’Reilly said a highlight of the event would be a performance by a local disability drumming group.
“We’re excited to have participants in Songbird’s Drums Alive day program perform at this celebration of the disability community in the Greater Newcastle area,” she said.
“It’s also a chance for local people with disability and their supporters to find out about the Disability Royal Commission and how to access free legal, counselling and advocacy support if required.”
The Disability Royal Commission is taking submissions until 31 December as it investigates the mistreatment of people with disability in all contexts and settings.
“We know that people with disability often face challenges such as exclusion from school, difficulties accessing services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and a lack of support and discrimination in the workplace,” said Ms O’Reilly.
“It’s important that the Royal Commission hears from people with lived experience, including those in regional areas, so that its recommendations to government reflect their needs and priorities.”
Ms O’Reilly added that family members, friends, carers, advocates, and supporters also have a valuable contribution to make and can access free support to share their stories.
“Your Story is a free national service that gives independent legal advice and support to anyone considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission,” she said.
“We can talk to people about their options for sharing their story, and how to do this safely and privately.” Disability Advocacy NSW offers free advocacy support for residents across many New South Wales regions to access and be heard in the Disability Royal Commission.
“The Royal Commission is a chance to shed light on the systemic issues that people with disability face, and for those who’ve been mistreated to share their stories and be respectfully listened to,” said Disability Advocacy NSW spokesperson Gary Thomas.
“An advocate can help you tell your story, protect your rights and access other supports.“They can also support you to make a submission, which can be in any language or format.” Interrelate provides free, independent, and confidential counselling and submission support services to support people who are affected by the Disability Royal Commission.
“We know it can be difficult to relive traumatic experiences,” said Interrelate Regional Manager Bernadette Mears.
“But we also hear from people that it can be empowering and healing to share their story. If you do decide to take that step, then know that there is a lot of free support available.”
Ms Mears said all are welcome at the Disability Royal Commission Information Afternoon
Tea.
“We invite local residents to come along on 11 August to celebrate the local disability community and find out more about the Disability Royal Commission and the free supports available to them,” she said.