Siblings Australia calls for continued support as funding gap widens
Siblings Australia, the only nationwide organisation dedicated solely to supporting siblings of children and adults with disability, is raising the alarm over a widening funding gap that threatens its crucial work. The South Australia-based organisation has long served as a lifeline for siblings and their families, offering programs, peer support groups, and resources designed to help them navigate the unique challenges they face alongside their disabled brothers and sisters.
Chief Executive Dr. Shannon Schedlich emphasises the importance of ongoing support to continue their vital work.
“There are over 4 Million Australian siblings of varying ages that need vital support as they have the important role of being their disabled sibling’s longest relationship and are at most risk of developing mental health issues in their lifetime.
“Our programs are specifically there to support siblings and provide a space where they can be themselves and a group of people who can understand their challenges and celebrate their wins and we urge as many people as possible to donate whatever they can to help us continue this very important work.”
Currently operating under an Information Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) grant from the Department of Social Services, Siblings Australia is facing uncertainty as its existing grant comes to an end. Although a new grant has been secured, it cannot be used to maintain the successful programs already in place, creating a gap that needs to be urgently addressed. The organisation is calling out to the wider community to help them continue their crucial support and advocacy work for this often overlooked group.
For many families, the impact of Siblings Australia is deeply personal. Sami Glastonbury, a mother of three from South Australia, has relied on the organisation’s resources since her children were young. Sami’s son Frank has an intellectual disability, and his teenage sisters, Coco and Gigi, have found invaluable support through Siblings Australia.
“The Siblings Australia handbook was a game changer for me in raising Coco and Gigi,” Sami shared. “It ensured that their needs and feelings were recognised alongside Frank’s, helping us all to support one another.”
Coco and Gigi continue to benefit from the peer groups provided by Siblings Australia, where they can openly share their experiences and challenges. “Whether their feelings are positive or negative, they know they can express them in a safe space and receive understanding and support from others who are living through similar situations,” Sami added.
The potential loss of Siblings Australia’s services has prompted urgent calls for support from the community. “This organisation has made an enormous difference in the lives of so many families, including mine,” Sami urged. “We cannot let it disappear. Whether through donations, corporate sponsorships, or spreading the word, every bit of help is vital to ensure that Siblings Australia can continue its important work.”
As Siblings Australia faces this challenge, the message is clear: support is essential to ensure that siblings of people with disabilities can continue to get the help they need.
What programs does Siblings Australia offer?
SibWorks: A peer support program for siblings aged 8-12. It helps them connect with peers and develop positive coping skills while dealing with the challenges of having a brother or sister with a disability1.
SibWise Online Learning Program: This program aims to build understanding of the sibling experience and provides guidance on how to best support siblings in various contexts (personal or professional).
SibConnect: A monthly virtual support group for adult siblings, providing a space for sharing experiences and connecting with others who understand their unique situation.
SibChat: An online community specifically for adult siblings, allowing them to engage, discuss, and find support.
These programs play a crucial role in acknowledging and supporting SA siblings and those siblings interstate within families affected by disability or illness.
How You Can Help:
Provide a Testimonial: Share how Siblings Australia has positively impacted you or a sibling you know. Email your testimonial to mailto:[email protected].
Refer Corporate Partners or Funding Opportunities: If you know of potential corporate partners or philanthropic opportunities, consider referring them to support Siblings Australia’s programs.
Make a Tax-Deductible Donation: Any donation over $2 is tax deductible. Donate via https://www.givenow.com.au/siblingsupportisvital
For more information, visit siblingsaustralia.org.au
