For three decades, Belinda Toohey has worked at the intersection of advocacy, disability support, and community care – and now she’s turning her focus to a group she believes has long been overlooked; mothers.
The Founder and chief executive of Including You Disability Services is launching a support group for mums raising children with disabilities.
The group will offer connection, shared learning, grief support, and a space to celebrate children’s achievements – something Ms Toohey said is long overdue.
“There’s a gap for mothers who have children with disabilities, and to be able to seek assurance, guidance and learning from other mums will be amazing – whether they have newborns or have raised children with a disability,” Ms Toohey said.
She said the new mothers’ group isn’t about policy or professional accolades – it’s about connection.
“I’m not the perfect mum. It’s not about being arrogant like I know it all,” Ms Toohey said.
“I’m just there to facilitate sharing and offer referrals, because I’ve been in the industry a long time. And we’ve got really talented staff who are offering their time pro bono because they see the need.”
Ms Toohey wants the group to offer emotional and practical help, from strategies to navigate day-to-day life, to help accessing services and referrals that most general mothers’ groups can’t provide.
“With a mothers’ group you have a circle of support, but it’s also about grief,” she said.
“Grief isn’t just one situation when a child is born with a disability – that grief goes on for a lifetime. I want to have those conversations and build resilience.”
“If a mum is returning week to week, finding it invaluable, making friendships, or heading home after a session feeling less isolated– that’s success for us.
Register: director@includingyou.com.au or 0401 740 300
