A Year of Impact at Inclusion Services

A Year of Impact at Inclusion Services

Over the 2024-25 period Y Whittlesea Inclusion Services has focused on strengthening accessibility, increasing choice, and improving overall experience for people with disability and their families. Our programs have delivered meaningful impact within the community. From expanding support options and enhancing communication, to creating more inclusive environments where everyone can participate fully and confidently.

A major focus has been elevating the voices of people with disability in program design and decision-making. By ensuring lived experience shapes the way we plan and deliver services, we are building a culture where people feel heard, respected and empowered to reach their goals.

Wrap Basketball: 23 years of Connection and Community

For more than two decades, Wrap Basketball has been a cherished fortnightly highlight for participants of all abilities. Driven by 8–9 dedicated volunteers, the program continues to offer belonging, friendships and joyful connection. As Felicity shares, “It gives everyone something to look forward to and allows everyone to be themselves and be celebrated.”

This year:

Our Impact in Inclusion Services This Year

This year, Y Whittlesea Inclusion Services has continued to make a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of children, young people and adults with disabilities across our community. Through personalised support, skill-building programs, inclusive recreation, and much-needed respite opportunities, we’ve helped participants grow in confidence, independence and social connection.

Families and carers have shared how our programs have provided not only enriching experiences for their loved ones, but also vital moments of rest and reassurance knowing they are supported by a skilled, compassionate team.

From camps and group programs to one-on-one support, every experience has been designed with dignity, choice and belonging at its heart, creating stronger pathways for participants to thrive and shaping a more inclusive community for all.

Key outcomes included:

Respite Camps: Building Independence and Confidence

Our Respite Camps continue to deliver meaningful experiences that help participants grow, make friends, explore new activities and strengthen life skills. Families also benefit from essential respite, knowing their loved ones are supported by skilled, caring staff.

Family Spotlight: Marcus & Kelly

“Our son Max has benefited immensely from The Y’s specialised respite services. These person-centred camps have fostered his independence, social connection and confidence, and the structured breaks have been vital for our family’s wellbeing. We would be lost without the support, care and dedication the Y has provided.”

Our Inclusive Future

Looking ahead, we will deepen our collaboration with participants, families and advocacy groups, expand inclusive support opportunities, and further strengthen the skills and capability of our staff.

These commitments ensure we continue to build a community where people of all abilities feel included, respected and fully supported to achieve their goals.