It’s difficult to believe that, only 25 years ago, people with disabilities either lived at home with their parents or in institutions.
At the weekend The Ascent Group had good reason to celebrate as it was an Australian pioneer in the community living movement.
Speakers including CEO Kevin Mead, Board Chair Huntly Gordon, former General Manager, Kath Bleechmore and Community Service Consultant Dianne Beatty all paid tribute to the inclusiveness of the Armidale community.
“The idea of closing institutions and moving people with disabilities into the community was considered revolutionary at the time and a lot of places in Australia were not willing to make the change,” Ms Bleechmore said.
“But Armidale was one of two who showed that willingness and, as a result, we got $3 million over three years from the Commonwealth to implement it in 1986.”
In 1985 there were 10 adults and 10 young people with disabilities at Rusden House, a group institution, with only two staff rostered at any one time to look after them. By the following year, through the Commonwealth grant, 16 adults and nine young people had been transferred into eight rented dwellings in Armidale.
“We had marvellous support from the broader Armidale community as they demonstrated their willingness to be part of such important social change,” Ms Bleechmore said.
“Churches, clubs and societies were generous and accommodating. Real estate agents were generally trusting and willing to give us a go as renters, helped of course by the knowledge that Peter Hutchinson, as a strong supporter,n had something to do with it.”
Mr Mead said The Ascent Group, formerly Challenge Armidale, now supports 35 people with disabilities in the Community Living Service.
