The Inclusion Champion project has been piloted in 10 central Sydney cafes with the goal of improving mainstream awareness and understanding of customers with disability.
Ryan Nance, a Linker with Ability Links, said: “This project involves a person with lived experience of disability having an honest, round-table conversation with café owners and staff about what makes a great customer experience for them.
“Making community spaces physically and socially accessible is one way Ability Links promotes inclusivity. This free NSW government initiative also supports people with disabilities, along with their families and carers, to live the life they want, as valued members of their community,” said Mr Nance.
Andrew Grant is an avid foodie, and one of the Inclusion Champions on the project.
“Whenever I leave the house, I see the experience of having a disability as if I’m taking off in an
aeroplane. I’m always looking for a runway to land on … somewhere accessible, with an accessible toilet, and a welcoming attitude. Making these new café connections through the Inclusion Champion Project is like I’m building new runways – new safe places to land,” Mr Grant said.
Café owners have been equally enthusiastic about the project.
“After chatting with an Inclusion Champion, I have made it my challenge to make my café as welcoming and accessible as possible. Not only for people with disability, but for everyone in the community,” said Kumiko, owner of Refn Café in Redfern.
“I have learned a lot. I used to think that people with a disability wanted to be treated as special, but now I realise that they want to be treated as people,” said Amy, owner of Quirk’s Café in Redfern.
After the successful pilot, Inclusion Champion will now be rolled out more broadly across NSW.
