Making Grants Accessible: Embrace Access and Georges River Council Lead the Way with Easy Read
- Embrace Access
- Apr 18
- 2 min read
In a significant move towards inclusivity, Embrace Access partnered with Georges River Council to simplify the grant application process using the Easy Read format. This initiative aims to make vital community funding more accessible, particularly for individuals with communication disabilities or low literacy levels.
The Challenge: Barriers in Accessing Information
For many Australians, complex language and dense documentation can be significant obstacles. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 1.2 million Australians have a communication disability, affecting their ability to understand and be understood by others. Additionally, about 30% of Australians have literacy skills low enough to make them vulnerable to unemployment and social exclusion .
These statistics highlight the importance of accessible communication, especially in processes like grant applications that can significantly impact individuals and communities.
The Solution: Implementing Easy Read
Georges River Council recognized these challenges and collaborated with Embrace Access to develop Easy Read versions of their grant application materials. Easy Read is a communication style that uses simple words, short sentences, and supportive images to convey information clearly and effectively.
By adopting Easy Read, the Council aimed to:
Enhance understanding of grant processes for all community members.
Encourage participation from individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to communication barriers.
Promote equity and inclusion in community development initiatives.
The Benefits: Empowering Communities
The implementation of Easy Read materials has led to several positive outcomes:
Increased Engagement: More community members, including those with disabilities or low literacy, are now able to understand and participate in grant opportunities.
Enhanced Confidence: Individuals feel more empowered to apply for grants, knowing they can comprehend the requirements and processes.
Strengthened Community Ties: By making information accessible, the Council fosters a more inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to contribute.
A Call to Action: Embracing Accessibility
The success of this initiative serves as a compelling example for other local government bodies. By adopting Easy Read formats and prioritizing accessible communication, councils can:
Break down barriers that prevent community participation.
Ensure equitable access to opportunities and resources.
Demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
Embrace Access offers expertise in developing Easy Read materials and training organizations to communicate effectively with diverse audiences. Their team, comprising speech pathologists and individuals with lived experience of communication disability, is uniquely positioned to guide organizations in creating inclusive communication strategies .
Join the Movement
If you’re part of a local government or organization, consider how accessible your communication materials are. Embrace the opportunity to make a difference by ensuring everyone in your community can access and understand the information they need.
Contact Embrace Access today to learn how you can implement Easy Read formats and promote inclusivity in your community.
