Disability Self-Help Grants of up to $7,000 are currently on offer for local support groups to strengthen and enhance the social and emotional connection for people living with a disability and their carers.

Shadow Minister for Disability and Carers and Nationals’ State MP for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said this grant is a great opportunity for local networks to deliver meaningful and enriching experiences for their members, with the aim to reduce the social isolation felt by those living with a disability and their carers, particularly for those in regional and remote Victoria.

“The broad criteria ensures applicants have access to funding that can cater to their support group’s unique needs, whether it be to purchase digital equipment to support virtual access to organised meetings, to assist with the costs of catering at gatherings or for the engagement of a guest speaker at an event.

“The grant can also be used to hire support workers and interpreters to deliver successful and inclusive peer support activities for the participants and their carers.

“It is so important having appropriate and inclusive access to support networks, especially for those that foster participation within their community. This reduces the feeling of isolation for people living with a disability and those who support them.

“Social connection improves health outcomes which is both good for the individual and is good for the community.

“I encourage local disability support groups to consider preparing an application,” Mr Bull said.

Further information can be found by visiting providers.dffh.vic.gov.au/disability-self-help-grants-program.

Applications close on 14 December.

Caption: Nationals’ Gippsland East MP, Tim Bull, pictured at the Sale Greyhound Racing Club with members of the local disability community, is encouraging eligible support groups to consider applying for funding for the disability self-help group.

Monday, 13 November 2023