Campbelltown City Council and Macarthur Disability Services will host an Open Access Forum this Thursday, May 14 that explores the issue of people with disability and the criminal justice system.
Local service providers and interested community members are invited to attend the forum, which will be held at the Campbelltown Civic Hall from 10am to 1pm.
Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Paul Lake, said the latest forum was breaking new ground by raising an issue that was often overlooked or taboo.
“People with an intellectual disability, like anyone in the community, may find themselves involved in the criminal justice system, and this forum provides an ideal platform to discuss how people with disability can access help in such circumstances,” Cr Lake said.
“The forum will highlight the support programs available to people with disability from the moment they come into contact with the police, the court process, what happens if someone is incarcerated and rehabilitation back into the community post release from jail.
“It’s the first time that council has hosted a forum on this issue and we expect a lot of interest from the community as it is often an issue that is swept under the carpet given the complexities involved.
The forum will feature guest speakers and a range of information stalls from Intellectual Disability Rights Service, LawAccess, NEAMI, Macarthur Disability Services and Campbelltown Local Area Command. Refreshments will be provided.
For further information, or to register your attendance, phone 4645 4903.
