This year, we have shared about the work of some of the teams at Down Syndrome Victoria. This time we hear from our Advisory Network.
Have you heard about the DSV Advisory Network and wondered what it is and what they do? Kath, Colby, Jenny, Daniel and Jack from the Advisory Network are going to tell us all about it.
What does the Advisory Network do?
Chairperson Kath said the Advisory Network, “Provides advice and feedback and vote on different agenda items at our meetings each month. We are passionate about developing new ideas, strengthening our skills in advocacy, and other things too. We listen to each other, learn new things, and support each other.”
“We give feedback to ensure policy is in place for our community,” said Deputy Chairperson, Colby. “We talk about security, education, health, rights and events.”
Jenny added, “We have meetings online or in person and we talk about issues that affect people with Down syndrome. We talk about access to a good education, health issues, job opportunities and self-advocacy. We give advice about these issues that are important to us and give input into DSV policy.”
With a wide breadth of personal lived experience, the Advisory Network brings invaluable input. Jack told us, “I can provide advice to DSV on topics such as employment education, entertainment and recreation and community.” Kath told us that they provide advice about things like health and wellbeing, and community and connection.
The Advisory Network also does work outside of the monthly meetings. Jenny shared, “We are advocates for the rights of people with Down syndrome, and we talk to politicians and community groups, and speak in schools and hospitals.”
Jack told us that they also, “work on events, helping and supporting at things like StepUP! and Club21 activities.”
Kath shared that the Advisory Network provides members with opportunities for, “Personal development and support for achieving personal goals, interacting with others, and education support.”
What do the staff members enjoy about being in the Advisory Network?
“It means that I have a voice, is where I belong and take part to advocate and show my views, also it’s a great space to share ideas and thoughts with colleagues. I love to participate in our meetings, and sharing my view of my life makes me feel included,” said Colby.
Jenny told us, “I feel proud to be a member of the Advisory Network. It is a really important thing to do. I want to help people, and also help people to gain skills to help themselves. My favourite part of being on the Advisory Network is getting to know new people and sitting down and discussing things together. I was very excited to meet Bill Shorten in Canberra and talk about the NDIS.
“I feel proud to be on the Advisory Network. We try to make things change for people with Down syndrome. My favourite part is when we go to events. I like talking to new people,” is what Daniel has to say about being part of the Advisory Network.
Jack shared that he enjoys, “working in a team of such wonderful, motivated and positive people. They help me see my Down syndrome as something good instead of something bad. It has allowed me to see more of my abilities rather than my disabilities. I enjoy having new experiences and learning new skills.”
Kath said, “It means a lot to be on the Advisory Network. I get to have lovely experiences and we have opportunities to work to the best of our abilities by having a voice and being able to share that with others. My favourite part is being a part of a team, and being a leader or mentor of others in the Advisory Network has been the best part of being involved. I love the work we do.”
To borrow Colby’s words, the DSV Advisory Network is both an opportunity and a model for how organisations can embrace and foster, “representation from our perspective to advocate, lead and work together for a better future of opportunities.”
