Humanity Platform

This blog post is the third in the series inspired by my reflections on the abuse and neglect suffered by people with disabilities. The Together Project is an art collaboration designed to create a safe place for people to discuss their experiences. For me watching people's creations has made me reflect on my own life experiences. I know statistically between 85 to 90 % of people with disabilities may experience some form of abuse in their lifetime. Until recently I would have said that I do not fit into that category but I am speaking up in this blog to demonstrate that abuse can be severe or subtle. Please read my poem 'Lock Box' to discover my true experience. For anyone that is interested in getting involved the exhibition will have a space at the 'Having A Say' Conference 2019 because together we can find a way. Lock Box A moment in fear all I hear is the ticking of the clocks.  I have an unhealthy obsession with security; I hide everything...

The disability service commission report into deaths of people with disabilities receiving disability supports is a shocking read. The report highlights significant failures from service providers across Victoria in both government and non-goverment funded services. The report found an increased risk of choking for many service users because service providers are not following appropriate professional advice around feeding plans. In 2018 people should not be dying from choking-related hazards. "This important review tells us that some Victorian disability service providers are not meeting their obligations under the Act to uphold the rights, safety and wellbeing of people with a disability," said Disability Services Comissioner Arthur Rogers (the Commissioner). Incomplete and incorrect communication plans were also shown to be a contributing factor in many of the deaths investigated. As a person living with a disability, I know that without my communication ...

International Day of People with Disabilities is a day to reflect on the lives of those living with disabilities. Like everyone else in the community there are people with disabilities who are successful athletes, artists, business owners, and university professors. We also have our share of trials. As a person with a disability I do not see myself as better or worse than anyone else in the community. While the International Day of People with Disabilities is a great opportunity to highlight the wonderful things that people with disabilities are capable of, I also see it as an opportunity to highlight areas where there is much work to be done towards equality for all people. In September this year I was deeply affected by Greens Senator Jordan Steele-John's speech in the Senate where he read out a list of those people with disabilities who have died in care. Since that day I have not been able to stop thinking that we need to do more. I hope the following poem that I have p...