Southern Downs residents interested in sharing their stories with the Disability Royal Commission can find out about the free support available by attending information sessions on Monday 4 July.
Hosted by Lotus Support Services and Your Story Disability Legal Support, the Stanthorpe event will be held at the Stanthorpe RSL Services Club, 46 Marsh Street, from 3 pm to 5 pm.
The Warwick event will be held at the RSL Club Warwick, 65 Albion Street, from 11 am to 1 pm.
Both events will include refreshments.
Lotus Support Services spokesperson Mark Reimers said the forum is a chance for local people with disability and their supporters to learn more about the Royal Commission and how to access free counselling, advocacy and legal support if required.
“The Disability Royal Commission is investigating the mistreatment of people with disability in all contexts and settings,” he said.
“It’s taking submissions until 31 December and wants to hear stories from people with disability, as well as their family members, friends, carers, advocates and supporters.”
These could be about your child’s experiences at school, difficulties accessing the NDIS or support services, or discrimination in the workplace.
“The Royal Commission is also interested in hearing people’s ideas for change, which will ultimately inform its recommendations to government for making Australia safer and more inclusive.”
Mr Reimers said a counsellor from Lotus Support Services can support people through the Royal Commission process, and free legal and advocacy support is also available.
Your Story Disability Legal Support spokesperson Bradley Heilbronn said a Your Story lawyer can give people free legal advice and support them to make a submission.
He explained why someone might need legal advice before sharing their story.
“You might be worried about your safety, access to services or employment, or you might want to name a person or organisation who mistreated you,” he said. “We can talk to people about their options for sharing their story, and how to do this safely and privately.”
“We can also connect them with support services and help with other legal problems they might be dealing with, such as the NDIS.”
Mr Heilbronn said all are welcome at the information sessions on 4 July.
“We invite residents to come along to the information session to find out more about the Royal Commission and the free supports available to them,” he said.
To RSVP, email lotussupportservices@micahprojects.org.au or call 07 3036 4490. Please include any dietary requirements.
Lotus Support Services is a Queensland-wide service that provides free, confidential counselling and support to people engaging with or affected by the Disability Royal Commission.
Your Story Disability Legal Support is a national service that gives free, independent legal advice and support to people considering taking part in the Disability Royal Commission.
