19 Stories of Social Inclusion
Themes
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.
Together with those around me, I value and hold a vision for a good life
-
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
I’m seen for my unique identity rather than focusing on my diagnosis or difference
-
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
-
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
-
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
I have all the same opportunities as all citizens to contribute to the community
-
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
I have the support required to participate and contribute to the community
-
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
I feel like I belong!
-
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