About Us
Belonging Matters is a not for profit capacity enhancing service that provides education, resources, mentoring and advice about social inclusion and belonging. It was developed in 2003 by individuals with a disability and families who have a passion for social inclusion! We are people friendly and value driven. On this web site you will find a range of useful resources that aim to inspire and build the knowledge of people with a disability, their families and allies to enable people with a disability to have opportunities and pathways typical of other citizens in the community - lives that are personally fulfilling, unique, socially inclusive and empowering.

CEO Deb Rouget provides a summary profile of Belonging Matters.
Why is Belonging Matters important?
What is Belonging Matters
Belonging Matters Vision:
“A community strengthened by the inclusion of all.”
Belonging Matters Mission Statement:
To inspire, educate and build capacity at the grass roots to assist people with disabilities to live valued lives in community.
Belonging Matters Core Guiding Principles:
Belonging Matter’s believes that people do better when they experience:
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The same opportunities & rights as their fellow citizens
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Belonging & social inclusion in the community
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Valued social roles
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Lifestyles that enhance their individuality & uniqueness
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Self-determination & empowerment
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Lifestyle arrangements that focused on their strengths, abilities, interest & passions
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Freely given relationships from people who love & care about them (family & friendships)
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Respect, self-worth, dignity & self esteem
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Compassion
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Welcoming environments & people in them
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Responsive, flexible & creative supports & opportunities
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Support processes that are people friendly
How We Can Assist You
Belonging Matters aims to bring a range of educational resources and advice that will assist you to:
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Hold a positive vision for an inclusive life
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Have typical opportunities and experiences and lead an inclusive life
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Build informal networks and relationships
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Self-direct your lifestyle including having control over resources and services
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Plan and implement ideas
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Learn for the experience of others who have much wisdom to share
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Pursue mentoring and leadership roles
We do this by providing:
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Educational opportunities, workshops, retreats and conferences (see events)
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A range of resources such as books, DVDs, videos, articles and links to other resources (see resources)
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Information and advice via the phone and mentoring (see services)
Referral:
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No referral is required