A message from Northcott Chairman, Michael Briggs

"Thank you for continuing to believe in Northcott’s mission and vision to build an inclusive society where people with disability can live the life they choose. 2021 has been another huge year in the history of Northcott. We have emerged a stronger and even more focused organisation, driven by our purpose to build a more inclusive society for all. Thank you for being part of our journey of inclusion!”.

A message from Northcott CEO, Liz Forsyth

"I could not be more proud of Northcott’s achievements in 2021. In the face of a worsening pandemic, we have continued to deliver high-quality services and supports to people with disability. Thank you for walking with us every step of the way to build an inclusive society, where people with disability can live the life they choose. We couldn’t have done it without you all, thank you!"

You helped boost children’s confidence and wellbeing through sport and fun activities – thank you!

"Generosity from corporates and donations from our community helped us to provide free, sportsbased activities that enabled children with disability to become confident, competent and caring community members."

You helped us address gaps in services for Aboriginal children and their families – thank you!

"Thanks to generous support from our longstanding partner The Profield Foundation and other incredible donors, an innovative therapy support model was put in place to address a gap in services for Aboriginal children and their families in Kempsey.”.

I-Art: creating more than art

In the first half of 2021, 25 young adults from Northcott’s Everyday Life Skills programs in Western Sydney took part in I-Art.

Pedalling to greater independence

Thirty-five-year-old Ben hadn’t ridden a bicycle for about 30 years before participating in Northcott’s Wheels4Life program in Tamworth. He’s now riding a two-wheeled bike by himself and feeling more independent!

Wheels4Life is a skills program developed by Northcott to provide people with disability with opportunities to learn and practice cycling skills so they can ride safely on local cycleways and roads. The program also aims to build the confidence of participants and increase their independence.

The 10-week program begins indoors, with participants learning cycle safety rules and riding on stand-still exercise bikes and pedestal bikes. The program then moves outdoors with participants using tandem bikes, trikes and solo bikes – depending on confidence and skill level.

Giving Tuesday, you helped us do it again!

Giving Tuesday is fast becoming a staple event in the Northcott calendar. On Tuesday 30 November 2021 you all said “YES!” to celebrating generosity, inclusion and serious fun for young adults with disability.

Giving Tuesday celebrated the International Day of People with Disability and raised funds so young adults can simply have fun after the long months of lockdown.

Fun is an essential gateway to learning. The money raised on the day has been allocated to fund sensory resources, outings and recreational activities. Most importantly, some families in need will be offered respite nights for their loved ones so they can experience independence and make new friendships.