Coinciding with National Carers Week, representatives from carers support organisations, advocacy groups and carers in the South Western Region gathered for the screening of 'On Richard's Side' at Deakin's Warrnambool campus.
The documentary tells the story of Richard, a man with an intellectual disability since birth, and provides an honest portrayal of the demands and rewards of caring for a loved one.
The documentary, filmed over a 30 year period, formed the starting point for a day of reflection and emotion for all those in attendance. We were also honoured to have Richard’s mother, Deirdre Croft, in attendance from Western Australia. She shared her reflections after the film’s screening before joining all attendees for lunch and an informal discussion.
Engagement between attendees and presenters was unique, intimate and moving, and Deirdre’s intelligent and insightful manner opened many conversations of empathy and understanding. An accomplished writer and advocate, she has over the years accumulated much research, diaries and contacts in the area of intellectual disability, self-determination, decision-making, and carer’s issues.
After lunch, Dr Jo Watson spoke about her internationally recognised research into supporting the communication needs of people with an intellectual disability, and methods for ensuring their voice is heard.
“Although Richard wasn’t with us physically on the day, we were left with a deep connection to this young man, his family and his wonderful circle of friends,” Jo said. “Our new friendships are not only with Deirdre and Richard but with the Warrnambool area’s caring community and we plan to continue to nurture this connection in years to come.”
“The documentary screening was the catalyst for a very open, honest, and often emotional conversation about caring for and about people with very complex support needs. Those present opened their hearts about their loved ones and their experiences of caring for and about them. It was a privilege to be in the room.”
Although the crowd was lower than expected, engagement at the event was unsurpassed. Each of those attending have a wide circle of networks, and we anticipate that disability and inclusion at Deakin is now well-known in the south western region of Victoria. Many valuable community connections for future events, research and engagement were also made.
Co-host Patsie Frawley said of the event, “This day was an exercise in connecting Deakin University to people we might rarely meet about an issue that we most certainly have a stake in as researchers and educators in disability and inclusion. The film and friendships formed on the day all centred upon what it takes for people with disabilities to be truly included and to belong.”
A reflection of our School’s commitment to engagement with community at a very real level, the event showcased the application of our research, with Deakin providing a site for knowledge-sharing and networking.
Many thanks to our colleagues at the Warrnambool campus, particularly Geraldine and her team in Community Engagement.
For those interested in sharing the film with their students, please get in touch with Dr Jo Watson.
A discussion guide is also available.
