Sharing Places supports people with disability who are aged 18 years and over who have a primary intellectual disability that is likely to be permanent, results in substantially reduced capacity in the areas of functional life skills, mobility, communication, interpersonal and social skills, learning, work and leisure. Sharing Places provides for participation in community, social and civic activities; development of daily living and life skills including work readiness transition skills training; development and implementation of communication strategies and use of augmentative communication aids and, development and implementation of behaviour support programs leading to positive outcomes for all participants.

Participants are supported by professionals who are committed to supporting participants to enhance personal growth, through a diversity of programs and quality of lifestyles within community environments.

Why we joined the campaign

Sharing Places is a charity, not for profit organisation that employs permanent support workers. This is especially important because of the high and complex support needs of the people we support and the need for our staff to get to know each person very well so we can provide supports that are respectful and responsive to each person’s individual needs. Having permanent staff is essential for continuity of care and quality support and, as a result, approximately 80% of the organisation’s income is spent on staff wages and on costs which leaves a small percentage to fund other essential services.

We use fundraising to fund items such as our vehicle fleet, most of which are modified for wheelchair access and ensures people, who would normally find it extremely difficult to access the community, are able to access activities and opportunities for inclusive community experiences. We also utilise fundraising to purchase essential specialised equipment such as pool chairs, hoists, and adjustable change tables.