Children with disabilities in Australia deserve better

Living with a disability in Australia has been exhausting this year. The long anticipated results of the national disability insurance programme review are anticipated this month, and the 12-volume report of the royal commission into violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people with disabilities was issued at the end of November.

Inclusion Australia, as the national peak body for intellectual disability, is deeply concerned about the issue of the polished pathway. This term describes the sad pattern seen in kids who go to special schools. They are more likely to stay segregated in their lives.

The polished pathway concept highlights the interconnectedness between various segregated pathways that individuals with intellectual disabilities often find themselves trapped in. These pathways encompass a range of areas, including education, employment, housing, and social integration.

Children in special schools have limited access to inclusive education due to separate and isolated learning environments. This lack of integration can hinder their ability to develop social skills, build relationships, and learn from their typically developing peers. As a result, these children may struggle to transition into mainstream schools or inclusive educational programs, perpetuating their segregation within the education system.

This segregation in education can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s future opportunities. As they progress into adulthood, individuals who have been educated in segregated settings may face limited employment prospects.

Some employers may not hire individuals with intellectual disabilities if they haven’t attended inclusive schools and gained experience. This is because these employers believe that individuals with intellectual disabilities need to learn and gain experience in inclusive educational settings. This perpetuates the cycle of segregation, as individuals are often funneled into sheltered workshops or other segregated employment options, further limiting their potential for growth and independence.

The issue of housing is also intertwined with the polished pathway. Individuals educated in segregated settings may struggle to find suitable housing options that promote independence and community integration. This can lead to a reliance on group homes or other segregated living arrangements, further isolating individuals from mainstream society.

Furthermore, the polished pathway extends to social integration. Individuals who have been segregated throughout their lives may face challenges in forming meaningful relationships and participating in community activities. Not being in inclusive environments when young can lead to feeling alone and having fewer chances to socialize.

Inclusion Australia wants to make life better for people with intellectual disabilities by promoting inclusive practices in all areas. This includes advocating for inclusive education, promoting inclusive employment opportunities, and supporting the development of inclusive housing options. Removing barriers for people with intellectual disabilities can help create a society that values and includes them fully.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/oct/04/royal-commission-disability-review-report-ndis