Growing up with a disability has provided me with unique challenges and triumphs, and working at Bedfords in South Australia has been a beacon of hope and purpose for me. At Bedfords, I am surrounded by a community who understands and shares similar experiences, as it is a place where everyone, like me, is working with disabilities. Bedfords is not just a workplace, but a nurturing environment where we are empowered to contribute meaningfully to society and gain independence.

Unfortunately, Bedfords is now at risk of shutting down, which would be devastating for all involved. The closure would not only result in the loss of jobs but also the loss of a supportive community that many of us with disabilities rely on. The safe environment of mutual understanding and acceptance cannot be easily recreated in other workplaces.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, people with disabilities have a participation rate in the labor force of only 53.4%. It is crucial to maintain spaces like Bedfords that are dedicated to improving these statistics and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

I am calling out to the government and the community to help us find solutions to keep Bedfords operational. Potential avenues for assistance include increased funding, community initiatives to bolster financial support, or exploring sustainable business models that could allow Bedfords to keep its doors open. By saving Bedfords, we are saving a lifeline for people like me who depend on this institution for personal and professional growth.

Please sign this petition to protect our community and support the rights and livelihoods of individuals with disabilities at Bedfords. Together, we can ensure that Bedfords continues to provide opportunities and support for those who need it most.

so please help us we can’t let this happen to our our beloved community and family because we are human beings too and we want to do things just every one else in this country and if you take it away from us there is no where else that we can go and do things anymore and please help us now  it will mean a lot to us thank you