At Humdrum, we’ve long embraced an unconventional but impactful approach: you shouldn’t be able to tell who’s a support worker and who’s an NDIS participant. This ethos extends to everything we do, including our annual Christmas party. For us, it’s not just about festive fun; it’s about genuine inclusion in a way that words or a social media post on the 3rd of December simply can’t match.
Since we hosted our first party, we decided on one simple rule: everyone involved in Humdrum is welcome. Whether you’re an employee, NDIS participant, plan nominee, or advocate, the Christmas party is your space too. This commitment to inclusivity goes beyond marketing and staff retention, weaving a sense of belonging into the very fabric of our community. Is it financially wise? No. Does it cause ripples and rubs some people the wrong way? Yes!
Engagement Matters More Than Ever
In 2024 there is nothing more important than engagement.The real magic happens when people come together, break down barriers, and connect on a human level. In a world that’s increasingly fragmented—where social isolation and transactional exchanges have replaced face-to-face interactions—fostering genuine engagement has never been more critical. Our Christmas parties is a place where people become peers. Working with and spending time with Peers creates a connection and an engagement that spills over into the new year and into formal work relationships. It allows an NDIS participant and a support worker to go from transaction to understanding. These moments remind us that the strength of our community lies in our relationships, not in the services we provide or the titles we hold.
The Pitfalls of Segregation in Support Work
Too often, the support industry inadvertently creates barriers. Uniforms, hierarchical structures, and rigid office environments can draw unnecessary lines between workers and participants. These elements, while seemingly innocuous, perpetuate an “us and them” mentality. They reinforce the idea that workers are service providers and participants are merely clients.
Humdrum believes this dynamic is outdated and counterproductive. If we truly aim to foster equality and community, then we must model it in everything we do, including our celebrations.
Why Inclusion at the Christmas Party Matters
Inclusion isn’t just about accessibility; it’s about dismantling hierarchies and embracing equality. Sharing a meal, a laugh, or a dance floor at the same Christmas party may seem like a small gesture, but it speaks volumes. It communicates that everyone, regardless of their role or title, is an integral part of the Humdrum Communirty.
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A Model for Other Providers
We take pride in our Christmas parties not just because they’re fun, but because they embody our core values. More importantly, we hope our approach inspires other NDIS providers to rethink how they celebrate their communities.
Our industry separates participants and workers, even during events meant to bring people together. But if we’re building our livelihoods around supporting and advocating for this community, shouldn’t we be celebrating everyone as equals?
It’s time for other providers to open their doors and embrace the people they serve. A shared Christmas party isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a powerful act of solidarity that breaks down the walls between service providers and participants.
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