Media Release: 22 August 2005

WOMEN WITH A DISABILITY FIND STRENGTH TOGETHER

Women's Health West, in partnership with the Laverton Community Centre and Hobson's Bay council, have launched a new support group for women with a disability in the Hobson's Bay area.

The Laverton Sunrise Group builds on the success of the Werribee Sunrise Group, which has provided support, information, friendship and fun to women with a disability in the Western Region since 1991.

"Many women with disabilities in our community are isolated," says Lindy Corbett, the Group Coordinator. "The Sunrise Groups help women connect to their community and make friendships with other women.

We also give women information that can help them take more control over their lives, for example information about family violence, self-defence, or breast and cervical screening."

The Sunrise Groups are the only groups just for women in the Western Region, and perhaps Australia-wide. "Having a group just for women is so important," says Lindy. "Women need the space to discuss issues of interest to them, from domestic violence to osteoporosis to beauty therapy."

"As soon as I heard about the group I thought - that's for me!" says Sue Axten, a recent attendee of the new Laverton Sunrise Group. "It's good to be with other women, to express yourself and exchange stories."

Sue and her four-year-old daughter have lived in the Laverton area for six months. Sue grew up around Footscray and Avondale Heights, and is very happy with her new place. "I'm lucky," she says. "I've got a housing commission unit in a new housing estate. It's beautiful. Yesterday my daughter and I went on a picnic in the park. We played on the swings, and went for a 'treasure hunt', finding feathers and things."

Like many women with a disability, Sue has had more than her share of hard times, dealing with both depression and anxiety. Being a single mother can be very isolating, which is why Sue was particularly keen to make more connections in her local area. "As a single mum, you're spending a lot of time just with your child. It's hard to get out and meet other people. You can end up feeling a little alone."

As with the Werribee Group, women in the Laverton Sunrise Group will choose the group's activities. Sue is particularly keen on jewellery-making. "I've always wanted to do that," she says. "I'd also love to get into cooking again. I'm a cook by trade, but I've been out of it for too long." Previous group activities include visits to the zoo or lunch on the town, discussions and guest speakers. All activities are free.

One of the main obstacles for women coming to such groups is transport. Being new to the area, Sue wasn't sure how to get to the Laverton Community Centre. After talking to Lindy Corbett, Sue worked out she could catch a bus and a train. "The community centre is so close to the station, it was easy," she says. Women's Health West can also provide free transport to help women get to the group.

Asked what message she had for women who think they might like to come to the Sunrise Group but feel a bit nervous, Sue said: "Just take the chance, because you're only going to meet friends, and have more opportunities. Everyone's just as scared as you are, they're only human like you! But really, go ahead and do it, and you'll find it will just make you happier." The Laverton Sunrise Group meets at the Laverton Community Centre, 3 Crown Street Laverton on the first Friday of the month.

To find out more or for help with transport of childcare contact Women's Health West.

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MEDIA CONTACT

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact our Chief Executive Officer Melissa Afentoulis or our Communications Officer on 9689 9588 or via email.