Social isolation an unwanted Christmas gift for people with disability

Posted on 17 Dec 2024

By Greg Thom, journalist, Institute of Community Directors Australia

For many Australians, the festive season is a time of joy, celebration with family and friends, giving and human connection.

For those with disability, however, Christmas can mean overwhelming crowds, inaccessible venues, loneliness, and social isolation.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare's People with Disability in Australia 2024 report, one in five people with disability aged 15–64 feel socially isolated – double the rate of those without disabilities.

Overwhelming crowds, noise and limited accessibility during the holiday period exacerbate disabled Australians' sense of isolation, with many restaurants and public spaces becoming unwelcoming environments that are difficult for people with disability to navigate.

Dane Cross Sporting Wheelies — Sporting Wheelies chief operating officer Dane Cross.

Such barriers force many people with disability to sacrifice social inclusion at Christmas to avoid the daunting and sometimes stressful experience.

As a wheelchair user, Dane Cross is all too familiar with the situation.

But the chief operating officer of the not-for-profit organisation Sporting Wheelies is determined to do something about it.

Through sports, recreation, and rehabilitation therapy, the organisation creates spaces that go beyond accessibility, fostering a sense of belonging and enabling meaningful connections.

"At Sporting Wheelies, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to participate, connect, and thrive," said Dane.

"We’re not just providing accessible spaces; we’re creating opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in activities that bring them joy and purpose, whether it’s through sports, group events, or simply sharing a conversation."

Sporting Wheelies group — Sporting Wheelies uses a combination of sport, recreation and rehabilitation therapy to foster a sense of belonging for Australians with disability.

“Social isolation impacts mental health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. Human connection is a basic need, and we need to create opportunities for everyone to feel included and valued.”

Dane said Christmas should be a time of togetherness, but for many people with disability, it’s a time that reminds them of the barriers that exclude them.

“Finding a place to celebrate can be a challenge when accessibility is not prioritised, and that means people are at risk of being left out of moments that usually bring joy and connection.”

Dane Cross chief operating officer of Sporting Wheelies — Dane Cross doesn't allow his use of a wheelchair to slow him down.

Of the more than 5.5 million people in Australia living with disability, more than a quarter live in households where they’re unable to leave their homes as much as they’d like.

An estimated one in four people with disability aged 15–64 have difficulty getting to places they need to.

“These numbers aren’t just statistics; they’re a reflection of the reality that so many face daily,” said Dane.

“Social isolation impacts mental health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. Human connection is a basic need, and we need to create opportunities for everyone to feel included and valued.”

Dane said that creating inclusive spaces and fostering connection isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about transforming lives.

“People with disabilities deserve to feel like they’re part of a community that celebrates and supports them both at Christmas and all-year round.”

Hear more from Dane on the Community Advocate podcast.

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As a not-for-profit organisation, Sporting Wheelies relies on community support to sustain its programs and expand its reach.

This holiday season, it encourages Australians to give the gift of connection by contributing to life-changing facilities and services that combat isolation and build independence for people with disability.

"Every donation helps us create spaces where people with disabilities can connect and feel a true sense of belonging," said Dane.

“This isn’t just a seasonal effort – this is about ensuring no one is left behind, not just during Christmas, but every day of the year.

“Together, we can ensure no one faces isolation or loneliness this Christmas.”

Head here to find out how you can support Sporting Wheelies

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