- PrideAbility is a social group supporting LGBTQIA+ people with intellectual disability, autism or psychosocial disability, founded in 2015 as the Rainbow Bridge Social Club
- The programme offers social activities, education and peer support, enabling members to participate in mainstream rainbow events like Mardi Gras and drag bingo
- Members report increased confidence, sense of belonging and ability to express themselves authentically through the programme
- The initiative challenges misconceptions about disability and sexuality, creating safe spaces for previously marginalised individuals
- PrideAbility recently participated in raising over £635,000 through GiveOUT day to fund LGBTQIA+ resources and support services
For too long, people with disability have been left out of conversations about love, identity, and sexuality.
PrideAbility, a social group supported by Participate Australia (a subsidiary of SydWest Multicultural Services) is changing that - creating a safe, vibrant space where LGBTQIA+ people with intellectual disability, autism or psychosocial disability can connect, express themselves and be active participants of the rainbow community.
Founded in 2015 by a mother and son determined to fill a gap in social support, PrideAbility began as the Rainbow Bridge Social Club. Today, it’s a dynamic community offering social activities, education, and peer support that empower members to live authentically without fear of discrimination or judgment.
“Having a disability doesn’t change your sexuality or your desire to express it,” says Thom Chalma, Head of Impact & Growth at SydWest, speaking with ABC Radio Sydney. “Yet for too long, people at this intersection of identities have lacked spaces where they feel seen and supported. PrideAbility changes that.”
For members like Nel, the impact has been life-changing. “It feels amazing to be part of such an incredible group,” she says. “I’ve made new friends, had new experiences, and found a sense of community and belonging. I’ve learned that I can truly be myself and have become more confident and outgoing.”
PrideAbility supports members to join mainstream rainbow activities and events like drag bingo, clubbing, Mardi Gras, Parramatta Pride Picnic, and movie nights, and provides education that helps members navigate topics often about relationships and identity - topics often overlooked in mainstream discussions.
As Nel puts it: “People compare people with disability and without disability and think people with disability can’t experience love.” PrideAbility proves otherwise.
As the program celebrates its 10th anniversary, it continues to champion diversity and inclusion, reminding us that everyone deserves the right to belong, love and express themselves.
Earlier this year, an organisation called Rainbow Giving and a coalition of other LGBTQIA+ organisations, including PrideAbility, collectively raised over $635,000 as part of GiveOUT day. These donations are raised to help fund vital LGBTQIA+ resources including counselling services, mentors, support workers, and more.
About us:
PrideAbility, a social group supported by Participate Australia (a subsidiary of SydWest Multicultural Services) is a dynamic community offering social activities, education, and peer support that empower members to live authentically without fear of discrimination or judgment.
Contact details:
Peter Skarparis
Head of Marketing & Communications
0434403273
