What extra 'insignias' are you requiring?
In the world of supporting individuals with additional needs, 'badges' take on a unique meaning. These visible or digital symbols serve as a beacon of recognition, access, and support for those who carry them.
The 'Campaigner badge', for instance, represents an individual who raises awareness, fights for acceptance and inclusion, and works tirelessly to create a fairer world where everyone belongs. Similarly, the 'Organiser badge' is earned by those who coordinate and follow up with service providers for a child with additional needs, ensuring seamless service in areas such as personal assistants, social care, health care, school, and transport.
The 'Inclusion Champion badge' is worn by those who lead inclusion at a venue or online, while the 'Befriender badge' is a symbol of support, respite, and a listening ear offered to families of children or young people with additional needs. The 'Paperwork badge' signifies an individual who is knowledgeable about specific paperwork related to additional needs, such as EHCP, DLA/PIP applications, or Blue Badge applications.
The 'One-to-One badge' is a testament to those who offer dedicated support to an individual child or young person with additional needs. These badges, metaphorically speaking, are akin to the 'First Aid badge' and the 'Camping badge'—skills and experiences that, while not always visible, are invaluable in helping others navigate the challenges they face.
Everyone, regardless of their role—be it children's, youth, or families workers, parents, carers, guardians, practitioners, or supporters—can have 'badges'. For those new to the journey of making their work more inclusive, these badges serve as a roadmap, guiding them towards a more inclusive and supportive society.
By using 'badges' to help others and each other, we can make a significant difference in the lives of children, young people, and adults with additional needs, as well as in society at large. These badges increase visibility and awareness, helping reduce stigma, promoting inclusion and access, fostering recognition and empowerment, and enhancing communication and understanding.
This insightful perspective on the power of 'badges' comes from Mark Arnold, Director of Additional Needs Ministry at Urban Saints, who originally published this article on his blog, The Additional Needs Blogfather. It's a reminder that we all have skills, experiences, and potentially 'scars' that can be helpful to others, and that by recognising and acknowledging these 'badges' in others, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world for all.
This article was re-published with permission in Evangelical Focus and on The Additional Needs Blogfather.
- The lifestyle of an individual who advocates for people with additional needs could be marked by earning 'Campaigner' and 'Organiser' badges, highlighting their dedication to raising awareness and coordinating services.
- Family dynamics might involve a 'Befriender' who offers support, respite, and a listening ear to families of children with additional needs.
- Home and garden enthusiasts could find their niche in navigating the complexities of 'Paperwork' badges related to EHCP, DLA/PIP applications, or Blue Badge applications for individuals with additional needs.
- Pursuing education and self-development may include earning 'Inclusion Champion' and 'One-to-One' badges, demonstrating a commitment to fostering inclusive environments and providing dedicated support.
- Personal growth could be demonstrated through the 'First Aid' and 'Camping' badge equivalents in the world of supporting individuals with additional needs, referring to individuals who possess essential skills and experiences to help others navigate challenges.
- Career development could focus on acquiring 'Skills-Training' badges to provide professional services to individuals with additional needs, enabling them to excel in areas such as sports (like WNBA, NBA, or NCAA basketball).
