Category Co-Design   Show all

  • ARMS: Strategies for Accessible and Inclusive Research Development Workshops

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    A black and white photo of Dr Maretta Mann and Dr Noni Creasey standing in front of their PowerPoint presentation, which has the title Strategies for Accessible and Inclusive Research Development Workshops.Dr Maretta Mann (Griffith University) and Dr Noni Creasey (University of Queensland) at the ARMS Annual Convention.

    Last week, Inclusive Futures team member Dr Maretta Mann, together with Dr Noni Creasey from the University of Queensland (UQ), presented “Disability Inclusive Research Management” at the Australasian Research Management Society (ARMS) annual convention in Darwin (#ARMS24).


    The presentation gave an overview of disability in Australia, and introduced the terms accessibility, inclusion and belonging in the context of a research organisation.

    The presenters shared some practical strategies for including people with disability in research development activities. The benefits for inclusive research management range from supporting pathways for academics in your own research institution to contributions to a more equitable and just society. Why wouldn’t anyone want to do that?!

    The talk was well received by research managers from other universities being inspired to adopt disability inclusive practice in their own settings. If you would like to know more, please contact our team!

    Find out more about hosting Inclusive and Accessible Events and access our Inclusive Events Checklist: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/inclusive-and-accessible-events

    Email us:

    inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

  • Disability Reform Summit: Moving from recommendations to evidence-based solutions

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    The Disability Reform Summit was hosted by the Dignity Project and funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Department of Environment and Science.

    The Summit brought together a diverse group of citizen scientists, Queensland disability researchers and academics, and key disability persons and advocacy organisations for a collaborative agenda-setting workshop.

    The workshop sought to co-create priorities for research based on the NDIS Review recommendations, Disability Royal Commission recommendations, and the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability report recommendations, while moving towards evidence-based solutions that will directly contribute to government and service responses.

    Twenty-one attendees worked collaboratively over a 4-hour workshop and identified key priorities, much of which was focused on improving disability data collection, better implementation of consistent disability flags across mainstream services, and increasing sustainable long-term partnerships and funding.

    Workshop attendees wanted to prioritise projects that focus on building evidence for knowledge and evidence gaps, although 50% of participants also wanted to examine existing interventions to evaluate and improve them.

    L-R: Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Sharon White; and Nerine Williams.

    TOPICS AND INSIGHTS

    Health and Wellbeing:

    • Promoting health consumerism principles and access for all.
    • Shifting from reactive to pre-emptive health strategies.
    • Addressing disparities in health equity and access.
    • Campaigns like 'Hear Me, See Me, Understand Me' and involving lived experiences in decisions.
    • Potential research includes integrating health awareness into education and enhancing professional understanding of diverse needs.

    Employment and Financial Security:

    • Psychological safety and accommodations in the workplace.
    • Inclusive recruitment, onboarding, and raising employment expectations.
    • Examining current inclusive policies and staff training in unconscious bias.
    • Potential research includes building inclusive research teams and understanding confidence in disability-related conversations.

    Top: Panelists Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM, Dr Talitha Kingsmill, Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath. Bottom: Dr Kelsey Chapman leads the summit workshop activities. Inclusive Education and Learning:

    • Need for inclusive school rules and evolving educational practices.
    • Redesigning assessment methods and promoting reasonable adjustments.
    • Potential research focuses on leadership attitudes and diverse perspectives in education, reassessing student success metrics.

    Inclusive and Accessible Communities:

    • Evaluating compliance vs. actual accessibility and inclusion.
    • Measuring community inclusion and the impact of co-design.
    • Opportunities like Brisbane 2032 for updating infrastructure and promoting universal accessibility.

    Disability Data:

    • Enhancing researcher capability and implementing consistent disability data flags.
    • Prioritising projects to build evidence and evaluate existing interventions.
    • Balancing academic interest with immediate social needs through co-design and sustainable partnerships.

    Top L-R: Sharon White and Prof. David Trembath; Julia Robertson.
    Bottom L-R: Dr Eloise Hummell and Nerine Williams; Geoff Trappett; Dr Maretta Mann.
    We extend our gratitude to the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science for their support of this research. Our deepest thanks also go to Dr. Kelsey Chapman, Lead Researcher, and the Griffith University's Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability team, including Rebekah Barker, Joe-Anne Kek-Pamenter, Dr. Maretta Mann, and Professor Elizabeth Kendall AM, for their invaluable assistance in organising this event. Additionally, we appreciate the continuous dedication and support of our Summit participants and the wider Dignity Project team.

    Special thanks to Eric Tram, our videographer, illustrators Holly Bryant & Cate Withers and the team at Griffith University Live Worm (Libbi Reed, Jacqui Hancox and Sharon Searle) for their engaging Sketch Notes that beautifully captured the topics and insights of the Summit.

    Top L-R: Prof David Trembath; Dr Kelsey Chapman; Dr Eloise Hummell.
    Bottom L-R: Summit Participants; Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM.

    Top L-R: Dr Talitha Kingsmill and Karin Swift.
    Bottom: Dr Maretta Mann and Dr Kelsey Chapman lead discussion amongst their group.


    Acknowledgement

    The Disability Reform Summit was funded by an Engaging Science Grant from the Queensland Department of Environment and Science and the Office of the Chief Scientist.


    Watch the Disability Reform Summit highlights on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Wz2UJ08xOP0?si=xIu1T75BSAVJTm58 (Videographer: Eric Tram).


    Join us in moving from recommendations to real change!

    More information: Dr Kelsey Chapman, Research Fellow and Citizen Science Manager k.chapman@griffith.edu.au

    SKETCH NOTES

    For an accessible / alternate format of our sketch notes, please email inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au


  • Unlocking Inclusive Futures Through Diverse Voices

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    Unlocking Inclusive Futures through Diverse Voices

    Embrace the Power of Inclusivity

    In a world striving for progress, true innovation comes from hearing and embracing diversity in all its forms.

    We proudly present Inclusive Voices, a pioneering force driving forward inclusive thinking in community, in business and in government.

    Our vibrant community of over 500 people with lived experience of disability, supported by decades of cutting-edge disability research, makes us the premier destination for corporations and governments seeking transformative disability-centric change.

    Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian (CQU), Dwayne Fernandes, Dr Maretta Mann (Griffith University), and Timothy Lachlan address the audience at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch, 2022.Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian (CQU), Dwayne Fernandes, Dr Maretta Mann (Griffith University), and Timothy Lachlan address the audience at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch, 2022.

    Why Inclusive Voices?

    The Numbers Don't Lie

    With over 4 million Australians living with disability, representing 18% of our population, and even more people living with chronic disabling conditions, the potential for meaningful engagement and collaboration is vast.

    Yet, the knowledge of people with disability remains vastly untapped by industry, offering us huge possibilities for creativity, and unparalleled insights waiting to be unlocked.

    Our Unique Approach

    We bring together a dynamic alliance:

    People with Disability: Our thriving community of 500+ individuals, each with a unique journey and invaluable perspective on disability.

    Researchers, Designers, and Educators: Experts who understand the transformative power of collaboration and empathy.

    Industry and Government Bodies: Partners dedicated to fostering a more inclusive society through meaningful action.

    What We Offer

    Personalised Consultations: Gain invaluable insights through one-on-one sessions with people with lived experiences or immersive focus groups, where our community members offer first-hand perspectives and innovative solutions.

    Captivating Keynotes and Workshops: Let our Inclusive Voices speaking bureau inspire and educate with their compelling stories, experiences of using your products and services, shedding light on the true essence of disability and its implications for your organisation.

    Product and Service Enhancement and Testings: Collaborate with our experts to refine your offerings, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of all individuals and drive meaningful impact.

    Research Collaborations: Dive into, or commission, ground-breaking studies conducted by our researchers, bridging theory and practice to shape a more inclusive future for all.

    A montage of images from the Inclusivity in Play Pitch, 2022 featuring diverse people and speakers with disability.Inclusivity in Play Pitch, 2022 Top L to R: Kathleen O'Kelly-Kennedy and Dr Kerry Hall; Dwayne Fernandes an Sara Shams
    Bottom L to R: Timothy Lachlan; Timothy Lachlan, Dr Maretta Mann, Dwayne Fernandes and Dr Vanesa Bochkezanian.


    Why Choose Inclusive Voices?

    Unprecedented Access: We've streamlined the process, providing seamless access to our vibrant and unique community.

    A Fresh Perspective: Shift your paradigm and see disability not as a limitation, but as a source of boundless creativity and resilience, inspiring innovative solutions.

    Transformative Impact: By embracing inclusivity, you'll not only meet compliance standards but also unlock new avenues for innovation and growth, benefiting all of society.


    A montage of images of Inclusive Futures events: From Left to Right - Madi de Rozario OAM and Daniel Clarke OAM; Julia Robertson, Matt Levy OAM and Mark Berridge at the Inclusive Futures Book Club Author Talk; Inclusivity in Play Pitch; Geoff Trappett; Geoff Trappett and Karin Swift at the Disability Reform Summit 2024.A montage of images of Inclusive Futures events: From Left to Right - Madi de Rozario OAM and Daniel Clarke OAM at the Inclusivity In Play Pitch; Julia Robertson, Matt Levy OAM and Mark Berridge at the Inclusive Futures Book Club Author Talk; Audience at the Inclusivity in Play Pitch; Geoff Trappett; Geoff Trappett and Karin Swift at the Disability Reform Summit 2024.

    Join Us

    As the leading force in Australian disability research, Griffith University is committed to and backs Inclusive Voices.

    Visit Griffith Inclusive Futures to learn more about ground-breaking disability research. Join us on a journey where inclusion isn't just a buzzword—it's a way of life.

    Together, let's build a future where everyone thrives by harnessing the power of each person’s unique abilities.

    Unlock Inclusive Futures. Transform Lives.


    Contact Us

    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

    Email: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

    Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability

    Inclusive Futures Hub: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au

    Follow Us

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability

    Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/gu_incl_futures

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdzCWo_9R8XHDadRRVPnkw

    Become an Inclusive Futures Member

    https://shorturl.at/huDHQ

  • Karin Swift: Advocating Quietly, Leading Boldly

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    In the mosaic of accomplished alumni from Griffith University, Karin Swift (M Human Services ’99) emerges as a quiet force in the disability, advocacy, and social policy sectors. Since graduating from Griffith, she has woven an impactful career, leaving a positive imprint on the field of disability rights.

    Karin currently serves as the President of Women With Disabilities Australia (WWDA), a human rights organisation focused on the concerns of women with disability. Her journey, however, extends beyond this role, involving various governance positions for non-government organisations. Recently elected to the Board of the Community Resource Unit, Karin contributes to fostering positive change for people with disability.

    A pivotal point in Karin's career was her representation of the Australian Government and WWDA at the Commission on the Status of Women 57 (CSW 57) at the United Nations in New York. There, she offered strategic advice on women with disability and violence, showcasing her expertise on the international stage. Karin's commitment to breaking barriers is evident in her leadership role at WWDA, where she has conducted training sessions in Indonesia and South Korea on gender and disability, contributing to the global conversation on eliminating violence.

    Karin has held influential positions at Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN), providing strategic high-level advice and facilitating member engagement on various disability issues and social policies. Her contributions were vast, across many portfolios including human rights, gender issues, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the Disability Royal Commission, housing, transport, welfare reform, and employment.

    A colour photo of Karin Swift, a middle age woman and wheelchair user. Karin has medium length auburn hair, red lipstick and wears a black top adorned with multicoloured spots of blue, white and green. Next to the photo of Karin, is a screen shot of the Citizen Researcher Essentials: Co-Design short course home page.

    This year, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability at Griffith University proudly appointed Karin as an Industry Fellow, recognising her valuable experience in the field. In addition to this significant achievement, Karin has recently accomplished the ‘Citizen Researcher Essentials: A Short Course’ micro-credential.

    Operating as an independent contractor working mostly from home, Karin redefined her career path in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19 and her own health issues. This adjustment allows her to select projects that genuinely interest her and contribute to the disability space without feeling the pressure of the 9-5 grind.

    Karin's typical week now is as diverse as her career, reflecting her commitment to various initiatives. From contributing to university research on the lives of people with disability to participating in Disability Action Week events, Karin's schedule is a testament to her passion for fostering positive change. This fortnight, she is actively engaged in a website co-design group meeting, supporting residents of Level 3 Supported Accommodation facilities, attending peer leader meetings at QDN, contributing to a Queensland Government project, participating in QDN's LGBTIQA+ peer group, and chairing WWDA's AGM during this AGM season.

    In a world where change is often gradual, Karin Swift's story serves as a reminder that every small victory, every voice raised, contributes to a larger narrative of progress. As a proud graduate of Griffith University, Karin continues to inspire and lead, demonstrating that education is not just a means to an end but a catalyst for transformative change. Her flexible and purpose-driven approach to work serves as a positive example for others navigating the evolving landscape of the professional world and a reminder to employers of the benefits of an inclusive work culture and environment.

    Find out more about the Citizen Researcher Essentials Course by emailing: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

  • Griffith Design Café is revolutionising access through co-design

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    Transforming Lives through Co-Design: Griffith University's Inclusive Futures initiative brings together a diverse alliance of designers, engineers, occupational therapists, and individuals with disability. The success of the Disability Design Café pilot project has led to the integration of its co-design blueprint into a course for design students. Our collaborative designs will soon be accessible to the public, promoting inclusivity and innovation. Join us in reimagining disability design and breaking barriers.

    Read the story in full on the Griffith News: https://news.griffith.edu.au/2023/11/28/griffith-design-cafe-is-revolutionising-access-through-co-design/

    Visit the Design Hub: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/hub-page/design-hub

    Find out more or get involved, by emailing Matt McShane: m.mcshane@griffith.edu.au

    A montage of colour photos from the Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Design Cafe Pilot program, with Photo 1 (top left) showing the guest speakers including Matt McShane, a wheelchair user, paralympian and program lead on the far right, Photo 2 (top right) attendees sitting in groups around a large table participating in co-design activities, Photo 3 (bottom) all attendees assembled outside Griffith University ADaPT building on the Gold Coast, all smiling together for a group photo.

    A montage of colour images from our Design Cafe Pilot held at Griffith University in the ADaPT building, Gold Coast. Image 1: Researcher Sam Canning notes down on butchers paper ideas devised by the group, 2: A participant shares his ideas for co-design, 3: The Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Team Jo Kek-Pamenter, Maretta Mann, Bek Barker together with Design Cafe Lead Matt McShane, a Paralympic basketball and wheelchair user, 4: Participants sit at a table brainstorming ideas, 5: Matt McShane addresses the Design Cafe cohort, 6: Members of the ADaPT engineering team standing and smiling for the camera.