Common themes emerge in the stories. Sentiments from storytellers and their supporters and allies help express these themes. This list is just a start. The stories hold many lessons about what it means to live (and assist people to live) a full, meaningful and inclusive life.

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Together with those around me, I value and hold a vision for a good life

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• Letting my dreams shine – living the dream

• Those around me help me to identifying and uphold a vision for a full, meaningful and inclusive life that is similar to other people my age

• Never give up

• You only live once

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I’m seen for my unique identity rather than focusing on my diagnosis or difference

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• I have interests, passions, aspirations, abilities, strengths and potential and those around me recognise and harness these

• I do things that are meaningful and relevant to me

• Doing what you love and loving what you do

• I have purpose

• You’re never too young or too old!

• Doing your favourite things

• My diagnosis is not who I am

• I’m seen for what I can do not what I can’t do

• Looking cool!

• My identity is familiar and recognisable to others e.g. I’m an employee, a student, a club member

 

I’m present in ordinary and typical places in the community rather than in segregated or special places

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• I go to everyday, typical places in the community on a regular and frequent basis

• I have physical access to the same places as others

• Inclusion is more than physical presence

• Inclusion is not about a sheltered, segregated, institutional environment or special group for people with a disability

• The rhythms and routines of my day are typical

• I use community resources when ever possible

• I have connection to the land

• I don’t have to fit into what the system or services have to offer

• I’m immersed in the community

 

I have a range of reciprocal relationships in the community

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• I share my interests and passions with others who have similar interest and passions

• I have a range of relationships e.g. family, friends, mates and girlfriends, classmates, colleagues, business customers, neighbours, club members, fellow parishioners, home owner, tenant, housemate, going away with friends. Not just paid people!

• I hang out with friends who like to do the same things as me

• I meet new people

• I know lots of people and they know me

• I’m missed when I’m not there

• I have friends who care about me

• I’m loved

• I have people in my life who are not paid to be there

• I have people in my life who look out for me

• I have people to call on and I’m there for others

• I invite people to come over and I have visitors

• I have family

• I have lots of friends

• I’m part of my heritage and tribe

• I’m connected to my culture

• I’m part of my school, work place or club

• I’m not lonely or isolated

• I have lasting relationships – people who stay there

• I do things with my work mates after work e.g. coffee, lunch

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I have all the same opportunities as all citizens to contribute to the community  

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• I have a number of valued roles in the community such as student, employee, business owner, intern club member, church member, neighbour, traveller, friend, volunteer, artist, gym member, film maker; sports club team member, actor, customer, radio announcer etc

• I have typical opportunities – the same as other citizens

• I try different things to see what I like

• I have the opportunity to learn new skills and roles

• I earn a wage and making a living

• I give to others

• I’m part of something exciting

• I’m a positive role model for others

• I’m appreciated and recognised for my contribution

• I’m not seen as a passive receiver of funding and welfare

• I’m challenged in new and exciting ways

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I have the support required to participate and contribute to the community

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• I have people who believe in me

• Those around me help me to hold a vision for a full, meaningful and inclusive life

• There are people around me who show leadership in regard to social inclusion

• Those who support me are creative

• I have natural, freely given support in my life - not just paid support

• My supporters are the right match for what I want to do, not just “disability” support workers

• People give me time and support to learn and develop valued roles in the community

• I have support to increase my comfort, confidence , self-esteem and learn new things

• Those around me hold positive expectations

• My needs are meet in a respectful manner

• Businesses and community group are welcoming and supportive

• Circles of Support can help

• I have modifications so I can do the same things as others

• People listen to me

• People around me help me to do the things I want to do and help me to direct my own life

• I have support to overcome challenges

• I have heaps of friends I can go to for support

• I’m connected to people I trust

• I have mentors and I mentor others

• I have positive role models

• Support people are not my “carers”

• People around me ask “how could that happen?”

• Staff don’t over step the boundaries

• I’m supported to be as independent as possible

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I feel like I belong!

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• I feel a sense of belonging

• I feel valued and like I matter

• I feel accepted

• I feel connected to others

• I feel welcomed

• I feel part of things

• I feel confident

• I feel content

• I feel respected

• I feel safe and secure

• I feel recognised and appreciated for my abilities and contribution

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