A month-long festival, aimed at increasing engagement in Newcastle of people with disabilities launched on Friday.
The Count Us In Festival includes a range of events, held across the city, including everything from inclusive games and activities to educational opportunities and kicked off at Wheeler Place with an Inclusive Games event.
“The Count Us In Festival effectively and respectfully links people with disabilities with the broader community and breaks down the barriers to inclusion,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
“We can all think about the role we play to help create a City that includes all people socially, culturally and in the workplace.”
She added that diversity was reflected in the eclectic range of activities featured in the program.
“From inclusive skateboarding, surfing, barbecues, and comedy shows to board games, documentary screenings, low sensory museum experiences and picnics, there are plenty of opportunities for people of all ages and walks of life to get involved,” she said.
Activations focus on education and awareness, such as the role local business can play in creating employment opportunities and making their workplaces more inclusive for people with disability, positive parenting sessions and workshops that focus on support networks for carers.
The Lord Mayor said there was no shortage of positive reasons to develop accessibility within our social and built environment.
The Count Us In Festival runs from Friday 27 September to Friday 25 October.
Head here for full details about the program of events and how to get involved.
