Issuu

FREE ENTRY

Perth

PERTH CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

6-7 NOV 10AM – 4PM

STAGE: FULL PROGRAM Pages 15-16 FLOORPLAN Pages 12-13 SENSORY GUIDE Page 14

Win an iPad PAGE 4

Isabelle

Explore Our Equipment Range Power Wheelchairs

Manual Wheelchairs

Power Add-ons

Pushcairs

Hygiene & Toileting

Alternate Indoor Seating

Walkers & Gait Trainers

Car Seats & Harnesses

Standers

Lifting & Transfers

Assistive Technology That Fits You Perfectly At Astris PME, we believe no two people are the same - and neither are their assistive technology needs. Made for Me is our commitment to delivering Mobility and Positioning Assistive Technology solutions that fit the individual, not just their body, but their life. For Isabelle, being the big sister means staying close to the action - spending time with her family and sharing everyday moments with her two younger sisters. With the support of her stander, Isabelle can spend time upright, engaging with the world around her at eye level and taking part in daily routines, play and family life. Our Specialist Consultant worked closely with Isabelle and her family to ensure her stander supported both her physical development and the things that matter most to her - connection, participation and being part of every moment. Because great assistive technology isn’t just about positioning. It’s about belonging, confidence and growing stronger every day.

Made for connection. Made for possibility. Made for Isabelle. 08 9249 7483

astris-pme.com.au EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE Mobility and Positioning AT Solutions Showroom & Experience Centre in Bayswater. Free trials across Western Australia.

has joined the Astris PME family.

TRIAL

HIRE

SERVICE

ADVICE

F CAFÉ

FRAME RUNNING HUB

A24

HUSH HUB

F20 A23 A25

B16

A21

C15

D11

C17

V2 E14 F17

A22

C12

B21

D14

E12

D16

E11

D17

E10

D18

D20

STYLE ME HUB

E15 F15

F22

A20

C11

B23

A18 B12

STAGE

F24

E18 F13

A17

E17 F14

E19 F12

F25 F26

A16

A31

B25

A15

C18

C19

C20

F27 V3 F28

A14 E20 F11 A13

C6 A33

BUILD HUB

B28

A34

C22 A12

DINO HUB

A35

ACTIVE HUB

D22

F31

C23

F32

A11 B30

A36

D23

C24

E23 F8

E26 F5

F35

E27 F4

F37

TO ALL OF OUR VALUED SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS

E28 F3

A8 A38

E30 F1

D26

BLUE SPONSOR D

A5 ENTRY/EXIT

MALE/FEMA

LE FACILITIES

ACCESSIBLE

FIRST AID

DISABILITY TOILET

F39

E29 F2

D25

C25 C26

win

F34

E24 F7

B31

F33

Perth Thank you 6-7 NOV E4

A10

STREET PLAY HUB

E22 F9

C21

SENSORY HEADSET

CHANGING ROOM

LOAN

Booth C28

CAFÉ

B12

B11

B13

B14

PINKD12 SPONSORS

COFFEE CART

D13

A19

STAGE

A17

C16

D11

C17

D10

Booth D26

Booth B3

Booth B19

D14

GREEN D9 SPONSOR

C18

A16 A15

Booth C27

D15

STYLE ME HUB

V2 SHOWBAG D7 SPONSOR

STREET PLAY HUB

C11

B17

A24

C12

B16

A23

A14

Booth C1

A13 A12

A10

A26

HUSH HUBD18 D6 SPONSER D19

ACTIVE HUB

B18

Super Squad

A8 A7 A6 A5

A27

Nulsen

A28

B19

B20

WIN an iPad! D21

C25

C26

D3 ity

C6 A29

Autism Association of Western Australia

B23

A30

HUSH HUB

Astris

Conni D26

C28

QR CODE

Place sticker here

B28

ENTRY/EXIT

Pert FACILITIES

h 6-7 NOV DISABILITY TOILET

Pick up your Source Passport Flyer when you arrive at the expo.

Dot Human

D24 Explore, discover and enter to D2 C27 win! Thanks to Assistive Tech, D25 you could walkPME away with an iPad!

Assitive Tech B25

A32

MALE/FEMALE

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER:

D22

Booth A32

D20

C24

D17

C23

C10

A11

FIRST AID

ACCESSIBLE

Scan this code to track your progress

CHANGING ROOM

Get exploring! Visit each of our sponsors’ booths and scan your expo entry ticket at every stop to collect your online validations. Complete your passport by visiting and scanning at all sponsor booths, and you’ll automatically go into the draw to win an iPad! It’s that easy! Explore the expo, connect with our sponsors and be in the running for a great prize!

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

SENSORY HEADSET

LOAN

w in

GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN AN IPAD - COURTESY OF ASSISTIVE TECH.

Win an iPad

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER... Pick up your Source Passport Flyer when you arrive at the expo. Get exploring! Visit each of our sponsors’ booths and scan your passport at every stop to collect your online validations. Complete your passport by visiting and scanning at all sponsor booths, and you’ll automatically go into the draw to win an iPad! It’s that easy! Explore the expo, connect with our sponsors and be in the running for a great prize! PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

WELCOME TO

Hi Perth! We’re thrilled to return to beautiful Perth for the sixth time. After the tremendous success of last year’s expo, it’s a pleasure to welcome you back for another fantastic event.This year, we’re bringing together 100+ product and service providers, giving families, caregivers and professionals the chance to explore, experience and trial innovative solutions all in one place. Our expo comes with interactive hubs, including Active Hub, Hush Hub, StyleMe Hub, Street Play Hub, and of course, there’s our Stage hosting awesome entertainment from Inclusive & Accessible Football, Dancing with Ballroom Fit, Freestyle Hip Hop dance with JETS Theatre School, Get Active with ACE Active Supports and so much more – just enough fun without going over the top! A huge shoutout to the incredible Source team for bringing this event to life, and a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and performers, your support truly makes this inclusive event possible. So, Perth, get ready for a weekend of discovering, trying, connecting and soaking up a whole lot of inspiration. The Source Disability Expo is all about keeping it fun, welcoming and energising - just like catching up with friends on a great weekend.

Emma x FOLLOW US FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES BEFORE AND DURING THE EXPO

@sourcecoau

@sourcecoau PE RTH E X PO 2 026 5

WE WILL BE AT STAND D26 B12 D26 during the Source Kids Expo to discover Visit us at stand B12 the best range of products for kids’ toilet training

www.conni.com.au

A lifetime of stories.

A lifetime of support. Empowering people to live connected and fulfilling lives.

Every person has their own story. Their own goals, their own journey. Nulsen supports people 18 years and older, at any stage of life, to live with choice, connection, belonging and purpose.

Nulsen Disability Services 08 6253 4700

care@nulsen.org.au

nulsen.org.au

QUIET HOURS 10am – 12pm Both days of Expo

Key Infomation FIRST AID

LOST CHILDREN

If you require First Aid

If you have become separated from a child

DISABILITY TOILETS MALE / FEMALE FACILITIES

security at the hall entrance

assistance, please see

accompanying you,

Can be located inside

who will be able to assist, or

please advise security

at the rear right of

please find a Source team

at the front of the

the exhibition hall

member and they will call

hall, or a Source team

(as marked on the

first aid on your behalf.

member immediately.

floorplan, pages 12-13).

TOILETS / CHANGE FACILITIES

INFORMATION / ASSISTANCE

Light snacks and a

Accessible Change facilities

If you require

selection of freshly

– thanks to Astris PME, are

information or

prepared food is

located in the back left-hand

assistance, please

available for purchase

CATERING

corner of the exhibition

visit the registration/

during expo hours

hall (as marked on the

information desk at the

from the onsite Café

main entrance to the

located at the rear of

floorplan, pages 12-13)

event or locate a Source

the exhibition hall.

team member to assist.

There is also Liberty Café located on Level 2 of the convention centre.

SENSORY HEADSET LOAN Should you require the loan of a Sensory Headset these can be located at the hall entrance. Speak to one of our friendly Source team members at the Sensory Headset Loan counter to assist.

8 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

PAYMENTS Our event will be a cashless event and payments for products within the event can only be made via EFTPOS payments.

This is for the kids...

connect-explore-build confidence

Scan me for updates! Whether it's making new friends, trying something different, exploring the community or building independence, join our kids programs and see how we are bit different to everyone else. From our new Rockingham hub and established Wellard farm, you can expect the unexpected at Super Squad. Services we offer: After school Hero Hangouts School Holiday Programs Community Access & 1:1 Support Supported Independent Living (SIL) Short-Term Respite & Farm Stays Support Coordination

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

08 6262 3001 hello@supersquad.com.au www.supersquad.com.au /SuperSquadWA

We deliver high-quality PBS (Positive Behaviour Support) services; come and say hi and get to know us! GREEN SPONSOR

Booth C27

Source Disability Expo Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre · 6–7 Nov 2026

dothumanity.com.au · 08 9324 1500 · NDIS Provider No. 4050070558

NEW

Time Timer Element

calm the shower-time chaos

assistivetech.com.au

SCAN TO CONNECT

PE RTH E X PO 2 026 11

6-7 N

Floorplan Perth PERTH CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

A B11

B12

C B13

B14

CAFÉ

COFFEE CART

D12 D13

A19

A16 A15

A14

Sponsors

A13

BLUE

A11

Astris PME

C28

PINK D26

Nulsen Disability Services

Super Squad

B19

C27

A10

A23

B16

C12

D14

A24

V2 B17

C11

C10 A26 B18

ACTIVE HUB

STREET PLAY HUB

C23

D17

D18 D19

A27

B19

C24

D20

A28

B20

C25

D21

A5 A4 A3

D22 A29

HUSH HUB SPONSOR Autism Association of Western Australia

C18

SHOWBAG SPONSOR Assistive Tech

D10

A12

GREEN Dot Humanity

C17

D15

Conni

D11

STAGE

A17

STYLE ME HUB

C16

V3 A30

A32

C26

C27

B23 D24 D25

MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES

HUSH HUB

DISABILITY TOILET

B25 A32

C28

B28

FIRST AID

ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM SENSORY HEADSET LOAN

12 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

ENTRY/EXIT

D26

Exhibitor

Booth

Aaquila Care

A10

Luminous Community Services

A28

Ability Action Australia

B28

MACA

Ability WA

D14

Melior Positive Behaviour Support

A30

AC Mobility

D13

Mental Health OT Australia

A14

Adventure WA Support Services

D25

My Day My Way: Education & Care

A11

AH Healthcare

My Plan Manager

Aroha Care Group

C24

My Voice My Choice

Assistive Tech

My Way Disability and Aged Care

C10

Astris PME

C28

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

B17

At Home Care

NDIS Worker Screening Unit

A27

Auslan in the West

A13

ND Perspective

Autism Association of Western Australia

A32

NDSP Plan Managers

C25

Automobility

Neuro Nest Co

Avant Innovations

C18

Nulsen Disability Services

Better Health Group

D24

OAPL

B16

Big Behaviours

D17

ORS Group

Blisscare Support Services

Ovis Community Services

Brazier Mobility

Paragon Mobility

A26

Cahoots

Paralympics Australia

A29

Care & Co Media

Power Kids Therapy Centre

Care Beyond Limits Perth

Raise Your Spirit

Conni

D26

RippleAbility

CYDA

SAL Consulting

A15

Disability Gateway

A12

Sensory Connect

Dot Humanity

C27

Dynamic Support WA

D20

Sigma Therapies

B11

Early Start Australia

D12

Sleep Electric Perth

C12

Effective Response Care

Spectronics

Equal Opportunity Commission

Spectrum Space

C16

Everyday Independence

C11

Step Forward Care Group

A17

Football Futures Foundation

St Jude's Disability Services

B23

Freedom Motors Australia

StrideMate

A16

Guide Dogs WA | VisAbility WA Kites Childrens Therapy

B20

Strollr Wagons

D19

Super Squad

B19 D21

Exhibitor

Booth

GuideNest

D11

Superyou Therapy

Heroes Academy

TADWA

D22

Horizon Living Group

C26

The Able Deckie

B14

Inchstone

C17

The Happy Giraffe

A23

Indigo

B25

Therapy Focus

A24

Insight PBS

Therapy Haven

Its My Life

D18

TLC WA

A19

K-Equip

B12

True Path Care + Kirwan Clinic

D10

KonnectUs Support Coordination

B18

Wild West Wheelchairs

D15

Linds Rehabilitation Equipment

You and Me OT

C23

PE RTH E X PO 2 026 13

Sensory Guide A

B11

Pert

6-7 NOV

QUIET HOURS 10AM – 12PM BOTH DAYS OF EXPO D B C B12

B13

B14

CAFÉ

COFFEE CART

D12 D13

PERFORMANCE PROGRAM STAGE ZONE

A19

A16

HIGH VOLUME 12:00PM – 3:00PM

A15 STYLE ME HUB

A14

D11

C17

D10

C18

STAGE

A17

LOW VOLUME 10:00AM – 12:00PM

C16

D15 A23

B16

C12

B7 A24

V2 B17

C11

A13 A12

POSSIBLE AROMAS IN THESE AREAS

D14

STREET PLAY HUB

A11 A10

POSSIBLE NOISE IN THESE AREAS

C10 A26 B18

ACTIVE HUB

C23

D17

D18

THIS AREA OF THE EXPO MAYBE BRIGHTER

D19

A7 A6

For assistance please reach out to a Source team member or volunteers

A27

B19

C24

D20

A28

B20

C25

D21

C26

C27

A5 A4 A3 A2

D22 A29

B23

A30 MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES

D24 D25

HUSH HUB

DISABILITY TOILET

B25 A32

FIRST AID

C28

D26

B28

ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM SENSORY HEADSET LOAN

ENTRY/EXIT

14 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO MALE/FEMALE FACILITIES

DISABILITY TOILET

FIRST AID

ACCESSIBLE CHANGING ROOM

SENSORY HEADSET

The Hubs Get ready to be entertained! We’ll have -

STAGE Inclusive & Accessible Football, Dancing

with Ballroom Fit, Freestyle Hip Hop dance with JETS Theatre School, Get Active with ACE Active Supports and so much more. You won’t want to miss out. The Stage is in the centre-back of the hall, and you can check out the full program of entertainment on pages 16-18.

HUSH HUB Put on some headphones, kick back on a bean bag and enjoy our Hush Hub. It’s a great place to chill out and enjoy some down time before setting off again to explore the rest of the expo. The Hush Hub will be open on both event days and located at the front left of the hall. PROUDLY SPONSORED BY AUTISM ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ACTIVE HUB STYLE ME HUB Welcome to the Style Me Hub, your new favourite hangout for all things beauty. We’ve combined a Nail Bar, Hair, and Makeup areas into one comfy, chic space where you can unwind, get styled, and leave feeling like your best self. The Style Me Hub will be located on the back left hand side of the hall and open both days of expo.

SENSORY HEADSET LOAN Do you want to dive into the full expo experience without being overstimulated? We have your ‘ears’ covered! Speak to one of our friendly Source members at the Sensory Headset Loan counter (front of hall entrance), where you can loan a headset for the duration of your stay. Please drop the headset back on your way out of the expo. SUPPORTED BY

Come and find out what your body can do in the Active Hub, where you’ll be able to test your balancing, climbing, and jumping skills with a fun soft-fall obstacle course. No matter if you’re 6 or 60, this is sure to be a good time! The Active Hub is located centre of hall, where it will be available for play during all opening hours of the expo.

STREET PLAY HUB This is the place to be! So much fun for everyone! Head to the Street Play Hub at middle right of hall where there are three interactive areas to choose from. Air Hockey and arcade games - do them all in any order you like! Open both days of expo.

PE RTH E X PO 2 026 15

The Stage FRIDAY 6 NOVEMBER + SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER TIME

SESSION

11:00-11:30AM

Inclusive & Accessible Football, proudly presented by Football Futures Foundation

11:30-12:00PM

Get Active, proudly presented by ACE Active Supports

12:00-12:45PM

Creative & Performing Arts for ALL Abilities, proudly presented by ActUp WA

12:45-1:30PM

Ballroom Fit - Dancing is for Everyone!

12:45-1:30PM

Freestyle Hip Hop dance, proudly presented by JETS Theatre School

1:30-2:00PM

Come join us for some music, dancing and fun, with Sienna!

1:30-2:00PM

Dance tracks + tunes with Perth's golden girl, Claudia J

2:00-2:30PM

Inclusive Arts, proudly presented by Kaleido Company

2:30-3:00PM

Dance Abilities, proudly presented by Kalamunda Performers

FRIDAY ONLY

SATURDAY ONLY

FRIDAY ONLY

SATURDAY ONLY

11:00am – 11:30am

Inclusive + Accessible Football, proudly presented by Football Futures Foundation Did you know football can be for everyone – regardless of ability, diagnosis or experience? In this 30-minute session, Football Futures Foundation coaches will demonstrate the adapted drills used in their iLeague program – one of WA’s most inclusive football competitions for children and young people with disability. Watch how they modify the game to suit a wide range of needs, from physical and intellectual disability to autism and beyond. Come and watch, ask questions, or jump in and join the crew. Football Futures Foundation uses football as a tool for social change – delivering inclusive programs and creating pathways for children and young people with diverse abilities to participate, connect and thrive. Join the team at the stage from 11:00am!

16 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

THE STAGE

11:30am – 12:00pm

Get active with ACE Active Supports Ready to get moving and have an awesome time?! Then head on over to the central stage at 11.30am for fun and games with the team from ACE Active Supports. There will be plenty of activities, competitions and prizes to be won. Everyone of all ages are welcome to join in! ACE provides sport coaching services, specialising in supporting children with both physical and intellectual disabilities to help improve a range of different skills. They focus on developing gross motor skills, confidence and engagement whilst building fitness too! Through their one-on-one personalised coaching sessions, they allow kids to build confidence and motivation to feel more comfortable joining in at school and with friends. The team will be on stage at 11.30am both days of expo.

12:00pm – 12:45pm

12:45pm - 1:30pm

Creative & Performing Arts for ALL Abilities, proudly presented by ActUp WA Join ActUp WA for a fun, high-energy interactive performance packed with hits for all ages! Kids and families are invited to sing, dance and get involved as their performers bring the stage to life. Expect laughter, music and plenty of audience participation, there’s something for everyone! ActUp WA is a Perth-based inclusive performing arts organisation, delivering fun and engaging programs for participants of all abilities, from ages 7 through to 60+. ActUp WA is built on the pillars of fun authenticity, joy and inclusion, where their aim is to make the arts accessible to all. Join them from 12:00pm!

FRIDAY ONLY

Ballroom Fit - Dancing is for Everyone! Ballroom Fit Ability Dance offers inclusive dance classes designed for people of all abilities, including participants with disability. Their classes provide a fun, supportive and social environment while encouraging movement, confidence, coordination and community participation. Ballroom Fit is a Registered NDIS Provider and a Registered Teaching Facility with DanceSport Australia, delivering quality dance programs tailored to individual abilities and goals. Join them from 1:00pm, Friday only.

››

PE RTH E X PO 2 026 17

SATURDAY ONLY

12:45pm - 1:30pm Freestyle Hip Hop dance, proudly presented by JETS Theatre School JETS has been running since 2005 and specialise in Acting, Singing, Hip Hop, Breaking and Freestyle, Musical Theatre, plus the amazing JetsAbility Disability Inclusion program. In 2018 JETS commenced Disability Inclusion classes and since have had much success with not just intake, but a few students have now gone on to play a part in the teaching crew of JETS. Bravo! Watch their incredible performance from 12.45pm-1.30pm on Saturday only!

1:30pm - 2:00pm

1:30pm - 2:00pm SATURDAY ONLY

Dance tracks + tunes with Perth's golden girl Claudia J!

FRIDAY ONLY

Come join us for some music, dancing and fun, with Sienna! Sienna is a young performer who loves singing, dancing and entertaining. She has a big personality and loves being on stage, whether she is performing a song, dancing, or simply getting everyone involved and having fun. Sienna is very excited to be performing at the Source Disability Expo and can’t wait to share some of her favourite songs with you. Get ready to sing along, have a dance and celebrate being YOU! Sienna will be on Stage between 1.30pm–2.00pm on Friday only.

Get prepared to hip hop and sing along with the amazing Claudia J. Claudia J is a 16-year-old singersongwriter from Yanchep. She released her very first single called ‘Blest’ and will captivate us all on Stage singing this, plus many more songs she tells us make her feel good, including one hit she is set to release ‘Original’. If you’d like to stay up to date with Claudia J, be sure to check out her social media. @ClaudiaJArtist @claudiaj.artist Claudia will be on Stage 1:30pm - 2:00pm Saturday.

2:00pm - 2:30pm

Inclusive Arts, proudly presented by Kaleido Company Kaleido Company’s interactive circus session at the Source Disability Expo invites people of all abilities to explore juggling, hooping, plate spinning and other circus activities in an inclusive environment. Participants can join at their own pace before enjoying a showcase by Kaleido Launchpad students. As a Western Australian circus company, Kaleido celebrates creativity, accessibility, connection and the joy of movement. Join them on stage from 2:00pm-2:30pm.

2:30pm - 3:00pm Dance Abilities, proudly presented by Kalamunda Performers

SATURDAY ONLY

18 SO U R CE K I DS .CO M . AU/ D I SA B I LIT Y- E X PO

Get ready to be entertained by the wonderful Kalamunda Performers, who will share their Dance Abilities showcase routine with us all! Following on, it will be your turn! Everyone is invited to come up, join in, and have a little dance! Kalamunda Performers dance classes are specially designed for students with special needs or differing abilities. Experiencing the joy of dance at their own pace and celebrating every achievement, big or small. On stage from 2:30pm-3:00pm on Saturday only!

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PE RTH E X PO 2 026 19

SOURCEPRO n conversation

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Welcome to Source Pro In Converstation, the powerful new video series that explores the real stories, emotions and insights behind the world of disability, therapy and care.

Welcome to Source Pro In Conversation with Emma Price and Caleb Rixon

From Diagnosis to Carer Burnout with Rebecca Glover and Christine Cronin

Empowering Families: Advocacy & System Navigation with Fiona Lawton

Going Beyond Therapy and Honing in on Collaborative Care with Melissa Locke and Clare MacFarlane

Raising the Bar: Innovation & Engagement in Allied Health & Education with Ali Gebhardt, Robert Norman, Julie Taylor and Dimitra Baveas

Neurodiversity Affirming Practice with Children & Young People with Monique Mitchelson

Supporting Siblings: Understanding the Impact of Disability with Jacqueline de Mamiel and Lindsay Laskus

Ask A Plan Manager with Rachel Elleray

Creating the Extraordinary with Caleb Rixon

Watch the series on YouTube @SourceProAu

SCAN TO WATCH

Thank you TO ALL OF OUR VALUED SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS

BLUE SPONSOR

PINK SPONSORS

GREEN SPONSOR

SHOWBAG SPONSOR

HUSH HUB SPONSER

THANK YOU ALSO TO THE FOLLOWING ORGANISATIONS:

PE RTH E X PO 2 026 23

y a d o t e b i Subscr SOURCE MAGAZINE

Your trusted source of information to help children, youth + young adults living with a disability. Source is Australia’s leading magazine for parents, carers and professionals of children, youth and young adults up to 35 years of age living with a disability. The glossy, 80+ page national magazine is printed quarterly with relevant, reliable and up-to-date information.

E XPO special

BEC GLOVER

Every new beginning starts with an ending There is somethin g about spring that quietly reminds us that life is forever beginnin g again. It doesn’t arrive with fanfare or urgency, but ce with a gentle persisten you that is easy to miss if . are not paying attention

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that look children. We grieve milestones at all. We grieve different, or don’t come that quietly certainty, and the innocence your child is slips away the first time you realise life admitted to hospital, and instant. an in can change experts in Over time, we become ce. trauma. Experts in hypervigilan ear always Experts in living with one the next listening for the next alarm, call, the next seizure, the next phone

that we learn become background music revolve to sleep through. Our calendars all along. of seasons, and these still hold happening the quiet around specialists instead More than a decade later, Inside hospital rooms. In forget what it not a season for a sleeping our nervous systems often true. Because caring is between observations. Holding rhythm. feels like to truly rest. from a ward many families, it is a lifetime hand. Watching sunrise state of recently Many of us exist in a constant with another What has changed for me window. Sharing a moment inhale feels my awareness fight, flight, or freeze. The at 2am. Stepping is this: grief has sharpened parent in the tea room interrupted. feels exhale The shallow. of air. of joy. outside for sixty seconds identity slowly quiet kind. Sleep is fragmented. Our Not the loud kind, but the not interruptions to life. are These charts, been there but dissolves beneath medication The kind that has always They are life. bags, and we can give feeding schedules, emergency is so easily missed when As spring unfolds, perhaps appointment letters. survival becomes our fullbegin again. Not And perhaps ourselves permission to Somewhere along the time occupation. changed, but because everything has spring is our It is the brilliant twilight way, we stop asking who because we have. gentle invitation star that catches your eye not untouched we are. Instead, we become Like the phoenix, we rise, Mum. Dad. Carer. Nurse. after sunset, when the world it. to remember. by by fire, but shaped It is Advocate. Coordinator. asking us to be is still holding its breath. Not to become Maybe this season is not spring us to pause Medical historian. We the warmth of the first stronger. Maybe it is asking someone new, become everything everyone sun on your face after weeks who we are long enough to remember but to remember indoors. Fresh air filling else needs us to be. grief, and survival. how beneath caregiving, care for But beneath all of that… lungs that have forgotten ourselves. To To re-imagine joy. To re-invent we are still there. deeply they can breathe. what was never gather back ourselves. To remember is spring arriving, perhaps waves is And It truly lost. together the pieces leaving, arriving again. starts with our gentle invitation to Because every new beginning of who we have remember. A bird singing outside a an ending. beginning Not to become someone the hospital window. A nurse is always been. spring this And perhaps once again. new, but to remember remembering your child’s of coming home to ourselves A volunteer ourselves. favourite blanket or comforts. ----the pieces of who PARENTS right at exactly the DO OTHER To gather back together HOW coffee bringing By Bec Glover I ALONE? smiling without we have always been. stranger FEEL.AAM moment. what conducted Years ago, I asked families Over the years, we have expectation. the marathon of But pain.how uncover erase don’tto sustained them through with parents research These moments what I called that wellbeing. and system health nervous caring. Their answers formed the experience theyremind they Abou t Be c: And health suffering. with your alongside the Focus 5s. struggling are exists If you still beauty is Rebecca (Bec) Glover is. you are now,really righthope that is what and wellbeing perhaps a mum, carer, and lifelong the types some ofunderstand with children Sustainability are our Here think alone. I often not advocate for children families. Her How do we keep going heard: we do. disabilities and their better thanwe’ve of comments this raising her daughter without burning out? still laugh or journey began through Despite everything, they needs, giving that with profound and complex biggest glimmer the doing his is a common question with I’m realised daily share in a“Ismile understanding of the intimate Self-care an young her for and bubbles. nothing notice parents of children but and systemic their eyes. They of joy in absolutely realities, emotional load, Not indulgence, lostwonder care needs getfind I tend to They myself. people with additional for sunlight. barriers families face. They reach real nourishment. experience, Bec in looking after past. everyone Drawing on this lived ask themselves periodically. in places adults rushchildren All Abilities Childcare else… My They are out loud. Mostly founded Ruby & Ollie’s . come they ask itgoals SometimesSetting They are not inspirational Network to create to I get and later The Inclusion I enough? first…by theustime is not only next it me, amthe that life enough wonder: is beyond solutions where Reminding parents justSomething teachers.myself, practical, compassionate not havebut do I when what by t. to reverberate fall short. seemsappointmen we survive, hospital by what mainstream systems The question measuredtime, it’s not a priority.” families, of support Bec now works alongside times get tough, the system we notice. to advocate n Mother of child with disability , connectio educators, and organisations unexpectedly Socialchanges taught support, and around their child who Medical parenting has understand for better systems, stronger up in Peoplehappen so caught when least advocacy, “You’re just child, regardless of patience, or life events me courage, a future where every with life without translation. opportunity to be seen, what’s happening enough. perhaps its greatest their needs, has the expected. Yes, you are and resilience. But do Learn more at not even have that you supported, and included. reliefthe question of easy to answer It is not Stress lesson is this: to think that you are u the a heavy time theinclusionnetwork.com.a that are carrying waiting for us once moments parents Small Life was never after balance when looking not actually Life has been therapist and the nervous stopped. occupational hospital stays load. As anallow yourself” to soften. 36 years, I can say for the past researchersystem Mother of child with disability 9 I SSU E 48 | S P R I N G 2026 with confidence: “I don’t get a lot of sleep, • Parents are amazing which affects my efficacy often under • Somehow parents manage quite at work, also I’m s quite difficult circumstance stressed… It’s hard to find the motivation • Every parent needs to explain, but whenever support their and develop the skills to I’m out and about with alongside own health and wellbeing my daughter, [I am] being her family life. constantly vigilant to to needs… I feel I need feeling make sure she’s not Parents are important people. safe” overwhelme d and is

LOOKING AFTER you We unexpected admission. learn to read rooms, monitor risk machines, and anticipate have in ways most people never to consider. different. Yet this grief was force, It reminded me, with breathtaking how much time that none of us truly know between one change can life That have. we without warning, heartbeat and the next, permission. without preparation, without me think And strangely, it has made medical parenting even more deeply about within it. and the families who live parents of Because if there is one thing understand, it medically complex children don’t just know it is the fragility of life. We every single day. intellectually ; we live it temporary Hospital rooms become beds. Machines homes. Chairs become

Is it possible to balance health and wellbeing and stay on top of the ever-growing load of parenting responsibilities?

You are an important person. Your health matters

Father of child with disability

WELLBEIN G

Every little thing you do for yourself is a step in the right direction.

WHAT IS WEL LBEI NG?

WHY SELF-CAR E IS IMPORTA NT to feel that you It is a common struggle to meet the need to be superhuman everyone has needs of your child, but is a vital way limits. Practicing self-care illness and to prevent exhaustion and and wellbeing. health own your improve

just the absence of Wellbeing is more than and satisfaction illness; it is the happiness life, including we feel within our daily and wellbeing good health. Better health energy and mean that you have sufficient daily hassles mental bandwidth to manage sometimes) daily and enjoy (or even notice you can more uplifts. It also means that relationships supportive easily maintain of connection the time and and feel a positive sense Research shows that finding is Health Promoting to your community. Wellbeing support to participate in and it fluctuates. improves personally experienced, Activities (HPA) substantially of wellbeing right are selfThink about your sense wellbeing and health. These disability can might involve: There is no doubt that your now. A quick self-check selected actions that maintain and energy mean much higher time • How do I feel right now? as: such health, Research right now? commitment s from parents. • How is my mind working with now? indicates parents of children ACTIVITY does my body feel right How • PHYSICAL more alone or with your health disability spend substantially Such as a vigorous walk If you are not satisfied with tasks, dancing or to make changes. a friend, playing a sport, time in childcare and associated and wellbeing, it’s time heart rate up own needs. anything that gets your Research shows and have less time for their There is help available. hormones flowing. and anti-stress the energy to and changes We also know that parent that parents can make positive and SELF-CARE PLANNING stress impacts family outings support themselves. planning what enjoyable Such as purposefully may mean participation in fun and Improving your wellbeing There are to eat and when to rest. feeling activities in the community. having time to read a book, to protect or simply REJUVENATI NG TIME many reasons to find ways in control of your schedule, you Such as practicing mindfulness, with the family. your own health and wellbeing: music, enjoying a nutritious meal listening to your favourite within your You spaces, or have a lot of responsibility green in You can feel calm and happy. spending time eaning making. don’t have the time family and unique life situation. spiritual reflection/m might believe that you own or physical You are an expert in your to think about your mental QUIET LEISURE PURSUITS if your own something that has for situation and will know health, or follow-up on Such as reading, cooking Look out with family of wellbeing behaviour has changed. pleasure, spending time been reducing your feelings dread that shows movies or visiting art research for examples such as: feeling watching Our while. for a extreme improvement s galleries. receiving NDIA emails; parents can make drastic report; some supports fatigue reading another of activities just to their own situation with Participating in a range avoidance of essential paperwork; lead to a in place. 2 to 3 times per week can constant anxiety or emotional signs of stress and significant reduction in when and numbness; or can’t remember anxiety and improved health sleep. If you you last had a good night’s and wellbeing. health your these, relate to any of be addressed wellbeing may need to sooner rather than later.

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I SSU E 48 | S P R I N G 2026

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