Disability Inclusion Network program ‘I am Woman’ increases self-knowledge, emotional acceptance, personal growth and development.
Every five years the National Church Life Survey collects research which examines the wellbeing, spirituality and health of our churches. The latest survey, conducted in 2016, showed that while 86% of our churches had made at least one provision for people with disabilities (most commonly in the form of physical facilities), only 20% reported an active culture of inclusion for people with disabilities and just 5% reported any program-related provision.
Awareness of social inclusivity is growing, however statistics such as this may be contributing to the fact that while nearly 1 in 5 Australians (18%) have a disability, we are not yet seeing this number fully reflected in our church communities.
For Unley Park Baptist Minister, Jason Hoet, this was something he was keenly aware of.
“The native language of our churches is inclusion, but I knew our congregation wasn’t representative of the broader community.
“So, I was interested in what we could do to make our church a place where people with disabilities and their families feel welcome and able to participate equally.”
In consultation with church elder, Kaye Kay, who has over 50 years of experience working in the disability sector, it was agreed that there was a need for programs that empower and support young women with cognitive disabilities.
Due to poor self-image, lack of confidence and difficulties making and maintaining meaningful relationships, many of these young women struggle to find their place in society. Because of this, they are often isolated and vulnerable in their own community.
Together with a supportive team of volunteers, Kaye is facilitating an interactive
ten-week wellbeing program from Unley Park Baptist Church, specifically for these young women.
‘I am Woman’ increases self-knowledge, emotional acceptance, personal growth and development. Each session teaches new skills that help enable participants to build friendships and networks, and connect with/contribute to their local and/or church communities.
“We’re covering women’s health, self-care and wellbeing, emotions, self-esteem, healthy eating habits, cyber safety and beauty. Each topic also includes a practical component,” explains Kaye.
“For example, the ladies are making soap as part of their self-care unit, and a professional photographer will take participant’s portraits for the beauty unit.”
With 57% of church goers reporting experiences of, or connections to, people with disabilities, it’s encouraging to note how rich our churches are with resources, knowledge and skills to bolster inclusivity.
If you or your church are interested in sharing ideas about social inclusion and how we can better support people with a disability to participate in our churches, please contact the Disability Inclusion Network of SA at disabilityinclusionnetworksa@gmail.com
This project is supported by the City of Unley
