Researchers from the Monash Krongold Clinic
Researchers from Monash University's Krongold Clinic have been awarded the Scope Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald Research Grant, which will enable the co-creation of a digital toolkit that empowers young people with disability to engage in community programs in ways that builds their autonomy and competence.
The toolkit will include online resources that young people with disability can view online or download to help them set, achieve and communicate their goals in community programs, like sport and art.
The $32,000 grant will enable the researchers to understand the key barriers and enablers for self-determination of young people with disability in community settings.
The research project will build on the national award winning AllPlay program and decades of research on inclusion of children with a disability.
"We're pleased to award this grant to the team from Monash University. We selected this project as it fits with Scope's research priorities, including improving social participation and reducing health and wellbeing inequities." said Kate MacRae, Scope's CEO.
"We believe this research and toolkit will make a real difference in the lives of young people with a disability."
"Significantly, the participatory approach that the team is taking aligns with Scope's own co-design framework, ensuring that people with disability are not only consulted but play a central role in developing the solutions that work for them."
The project will engage with a small group of young people with disability to co-create a digital toolkit for young people with disability that enables them to build their independence and decision-making capacity so they can participate in community programs and achieve their goals.
The research team is led by Dr Bethany Devenish, Research Fellow with the Monash Krongold Clinic at Monash University's Faculty of Education.
"We're excited to receive this grant in support of our work. Participating in community programs such as sports, dance or drama has enormous benefits for young people. Our aim is to build self-determination in young people so they are empowered to access these programs and seek out the necessary supports that can help them to achieve their goals.
"Young people with disability who are self-determined experience a more positive quality of life and better physical, social, emotional and academic outcomes."
The team of researchers also includes Professor Nicole Rinehart, Director of Monash Krongold Clinic, Dr Ana Mantilla, Deputy Director Research at the Monash Krongold Clinic, and Emily Chan, Researcher. The Monash Krongold Clinic is dedicated to fostering an inclusive Australia that caters to the needs of every child facing developmental challenges or disabilities. The vision is to ensure that all children and youth, regardless of their abilities, are treated respectfully and provided opportunities to flourish within their local communities. Striving to integrate research and community, the clinic offers evidence-based, accessible, co-designed, and community-driven programs and training initiatives with a clear goal to empower individuals and promote a stronger sense of community inclusion.
On completion of the participatory phase of the project, the toolkit will be distributed across Australia to community programs via the AllPlay platform. The utilisation of the toolkit will then be evaluated.
