The National Council for Women Victoria (NCWV) Geelong Branch’s will hold its 81st annual luncheon this month, focusing on the experience of parents with a disability.
The luncheon, to be held on Monday, June 30 at the Shell Club in Corio, will explore the capabilities and unique strengths people with disabilities bring to parenting, as well as the challenges they face.
The event will feature groundbreaking researcher Emelia Young as its keynote speaker.
In 2018 Ms Young was awarded the Minister’s Award for Outstanding Leadership at the Victorian Disability Awards for her multidisciplinary work with disability service provider Yooralla and the Royal Women’s Hospital Parenting with Disability program.
Ms Young said being able to support new families before and after the birth of their babies through the one-of-a-kind program was a privilege.
“We are striving for equality in our society and that requires giving people access to the right type of supports to enable independence and participation in everyday life,” she said.
“This includes providing information, support and equipment to parents with a disability. When these are implemented, parents thrive caring for their child and feel empowered.”
Ms Young works involves assessing and implementing strategies and equipment for people with disability to increase their participation and engagement in meaningful everyday activities.
“When parents feel supported, their stress and anxiety around parenting is reduced, and they therefore have a more positive experience in the early stages at home with their baby,” she said.
“This is why I am passionate about continuing this program.”
Contact Geelong Branch president Nonie Crozier on 0409-994 528 or email nonie.crozier@bigpond.com for more information.
