Goldfields Library Wins Disability Services Award

Goldfields Library Corporation has been awarded a disability service award for its initiative to promote community participation of the elderly and people with disabilities.

The library, which supported Scope’s Icon clients to deliver books to aged care residents, was presented with the annual statewide Scope Community Partnership Award at the Telstra Dome on Friday, November 7.

The pilot program has not only created better access to library resources for people living in aged care facilities, it has also given participants the opportunity to build friendships.

In partnership with the library’s outreach service, Scope’s ICON personnel provide a library pick-up and drop-off service to aged care facilities.

While visiting the facilities, Scope personnel also spend time with the residents and join in the activities.

Scope ICON coordinator Deidre Chapman said the partnership provided a valuable opportunity for people with disabilities to offer a much needed service.

``Scope is delighted to have this opportunity as it has enabled people with a disability to make a meaningful contribution to the community,’’ Ms Chapman said.

``We truly commend Goldfields for supporting this initiative and paving the way for other community services to promote better access and inclusion for people of all abilities.’’

For the past 60 years, Scope has been committed to empowering children and adults with disabilities to reach their potential.

Scope is also committed to overcoming the personal, structural and attitudinal barriers that prevent those with disability from participating in community life and works to make our community more inclusive, more accessible and more welcoming.