Building Belonging Together: Community Gathering & AGM

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This International Day of People with Disability, join Hunter Circles for an evening of conversation about what keeps people safe, what we're learning about building friendships and belonging, and what we can do together to create communities where everyone matters. We'll be joined by visiting researchers, advocates and community members to share ideas, research findings and reflections from the past year. Here's what's planned: 5.15–5.30pm | Hunter Circles AGMA short AGM to take care of formal business. 5.30–6.00pm | Panel: What keeps people safe?A conversation with: Jeff Smith, NSW Ageing and Disability Commissioner Professor Sally Robinson, Flinders University Ruby Nankivell, Flinders University, a community researcher with lived experience of intellectual disability Leigh Creighton, Peer Leader at Hunter Circles Drawing on research, lived experience and advocacy, we'll explore the role of relationships, community and belonging in preventing everyday harm, and why keeping people safe is about more than services, policies and procedures. 6.00–6.20pm | Building belonging – what we're learningOver the past two years, Hunter Circles has been part of Community for Everyone, a project supporting people with intellectual disability who are profoundly isolated to get to know community members with shared interests, build friendships and become part of community life. Professor Karen Fisher (UNSW), who co-led the project research, will share key findings and reflect on what we've learned along the way. We'll also share some of the stories, ideas and resources emerging from our work. 6.20–6.30pm | What's next for Hunter Circles?A look ahead to our Meet-Ups, Community Conversations and opportunities to get involved. From 6.30pm | Drinks, nibbles and conversation Everyone is welcome. Registration is free. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the City of Newcastle. Before our evening gathering, Hunter Circles is hosting Working Together: Preventing Everyday Harm, a free,