Created by Dr Jonathon Welch AM, Social Inclusion Week aims to ensure all Australians feel included and valued, giving everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society.  It’s about connecting local communities, workmates, family and friends in order to build and strengthen relationships and networks, addressing isolation and exclusion by supporting people who may be unable to help themselves. This year’s Social Inclusion theme is Collaborate, Connect and Celebrate.

A social inclusive society is defined as one where all people feel valued, their differences are respected and their basic needs are met so they can live with dignity.

Bellingen Shire Mayor, Cr Mark Troy agreed, saying “By producing this map, we are helping to make the Bellingen Shire more socially inclusive. By providing a safer environment, where social engagement, connectedness and integration are nurtured we are encouraging individual members of our community and the wider community to come together”.

The Bellingen Shire Mobility Map reflects the theme of Social Inclusion Week and is a free map of accessible locations within the townships of Dorrigo, Urunga, Mylestom and Bellingen.  It includes useful phone numbers and information and has been developed with support from the Community Wellbeing Advisory Committee to assist people with disAbilities and their families to enable ease of access to areas throughout the shire. It is one of the strategies outlined in the Shire of Bellingen Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.

During Social Inclusion Week or any time, why not grab a Mobility Map and a friend and have a walk or wheel around your local area, get out and be included.

Maps are available from all local Information Centres, Neighbourhood and Support Centres, Bellingen, Dorrigo and Urunga Libraries or Council’s Administration Centre.  For more information contact Anna Joy on 66557300.