'Sip and Say' gathering to discuss disability plan

An informal Sip and Say gathering will be held at the Umina Beach Recreation Precinct on September 10 to give Peninsula residents an opportunity to discuss the Central Coast Council's Disability Inclusion Action Plan.

The plan is being developed in accordance with the NSW Disability Inclusion Act 2014 that aims to remove the barriers for people with disability.

According to the council, the plan will outline what needs to be done over the next four years to make the local community more inclusive and accessible for all of its members.

Council has again called for input and direction from people with disability and those who work closely with people with disabilities, to help build a more genuinely inclusive community for all residents.

Council's Group Leader Customer and Community Relations Ms Judy Jaeger said the involvement of people living and working with disability was critical to the overall effectiveness of the plan.

"This plan aims to bring about long-term, significant change and will continue to evolve in response to feedback and changes in our external environment," Ms Jaeger said.

"The ongoing participation of people living and working with disability is crucial to the overall success and level of impact the plan will have on people's lives," she said.

Ms. Jaeger said there were various ways people could contribute including forums, surveys, informal and online discussions.

"We would like to hear from a diverse range of people with disabilities, carers, parents of people with disabilities, representatives from disability service providers and peak disability groups.

"All of the information we gather will shape the development of the new plan and how it will impact within our own community," Ms Jaeger said.

For those who wish to get involved in the process online, there are engagement tools available at haveyoursaygosford.com.au.

The council has added several Sip and Says informal events to its calendar as opportunities for further input and discussion over coffee at various times and venues.

The Umina Beach Recreation Precinct Sip and Say will be held near the playground at 10am on September 10.

"Come along to a community meet up to have a cuppa and chat about what would make your community more inclusive," Ms Jaeger said.

Full details for all activities, events and opportunities to be a part of the conversation can be found at haveyoursaygosford.com.au.

Further information and bookings for community forums can be made by contacting council's Disability Inclusion Officer on 4325 8109 or by emailing katie.butler@gosford.nsw.gov.au.

Media release, 30 Aug 2016

Judy Jaeger, Central Coast Council

Website, 30 Aug 2016

haveyoursaygosford.com.au