‘They see me, and not my disability’

Lutheran Services has been serving individuals and communities in Queensland since 1935. The organisation offers a range of disability support services across six centres. These services include supported-living accommodation, day services, in-home care services, employment and personal growth programs, health and wellbeing programs and behaviour support. Graceville Centre on the Sunshine Coast serves people living with intellectual, cognitive, or psychiatric disabilities through accommodation and support programs. Client Kylie and case managers Daniel and Mary share their experiences with disability and offer their thoughts about inclusion, acceptance and working for positive change in our society and our church.

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Kylie Drinnan knows firsthand how important it is for people living with disability to feel safe. Accessible and accepting environments can be hard to come by. However, the members and staff of St Luke’s Lutheran Church and Lutheran Services’ Graceville Centre at Nambour on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast are working hard to help everyone feel welcome and valued. Kylie shares her thoughts on how we can all better walk alongside people with disability.

WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST?

Feeling safe is very important to me. I have been at Lutheran Service’s Graceville Centre for 15 years because it’s a safe place to live – both physically and emotionally. The people there are lovely and kind and treat me well.

I also really appreciate feeling accepted. It’s one of the reasons I look forward to going to St Luke’s Lutheran Church, which is just across the road from my unit. I go as often as I can because I always feel good when I am there. It’s a place where I am welcome and valued. I enjoy the services and music, but the morning tea is also a real highlight! The pastors and other parishioners are always willing to stop and have a chat too. Simple things like offering a chat and a biscuit in a friendly, safe environment can help make people with disabilities feel included.

HOW IMPORTANT IS CHURCH TO YOU?

Going to church is a big part of my life. Our faith encourages us to accept everyone and treat all people equally, and I definitely feel that at St Luke’s. Everyone there is welcomed and appreciated for who they are. I even go to their events – like the Annual General Meeting – to show my support and gratitude for what they do.

HOW COULD WIDER SOCIETY BETTER WALK ALONGSIDE PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY?

I think we could all be much more accepting of each other. I spend my time in places where people take the time to listen and understand me – where everyone is treated as individuals.

The Nambour Community Centre, Compass Connections Café, St Luke’s … these are all really special places. The people there are lovely and kind; they get to know you personally, right down to the type of milk you like in your coffee (lactose-free, thanks!).

They see me, and not my disability.

HOW COULD SPACES BE MORE DISABILITY-FRIENDLY?

Physical access is a big issue for me. I use a walker and don’t like lifts. So, if there isn’t a ramp, I am automatically excluded from places. You’d be surprised how many places are not designed to cater for people with a disability and unintentionally make us feel unwelcome.

WHAT WOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?

I think more awareness and acceptance would go a long way. Everyone is different and has different needs. But feeling safe, welcome and wanted is important to us all.