With International Day of People with a Disability approaching on 3 December, we want to highlight our programs for people living with a disability. Meridian supports people from the LGBTIQA+ community living with disability, mental health issues, neurodivergence, and chronic illness. This intersection impacts service accessibility, health outcomes and other social determinants of health. One of the largest reported barriers is social connection due to inaccessibility of queer and mainstream events, and difficulty connecting with others.
Disabili-Tea is a peer-led program that holds fortnightly Zoom sessions with topics chosen by participants. These aim to build capacity and empower people through increasing autonomy, resilience, and confidence for people to participate in the community. For more information: Disabili-Tea - Meridian 2023.
Out and About is a monthly social event run at various locations chosen by participants, such as museums and galleries, movies, coffee, local gardens and markets and picnics. Activities are free or low cost and limited transport may be provided. Support workers, friends, family, and assistance animals are all very welcome. To sign up
The Roundabout Project is a pilot program aimed at tackling the crucial issue of social isolation among LGBTIQ+ individuals living with disability. With funding from the Department of Social Services (DSS) and under the auspice of LGBTIQ+ Health Australia, the program is part of the Australian Government’s focus on the prevention of sexual violence and harassment for marginalised groups including the LGBTIQ+ community. Within the LGBTIQ+ community, individuals with disability often face heightened isolation, leading to increased stigma, discrimination, and vulnerability to harassment and abuse. The Roundabout Project’s aim is to address these and combat isolation by matching LGBTIQ+ individuals aged 18+ living with a disability with a trained community peer volunteer. If you would like more information, visit our website here, or please reach out to [email protected].