Beyond Borders Travel expands horizons for people with disability

At 55, Claire McCue is stepping into her future with confidence and independence her family never thought possible, thanks to UnitingCare’s Beyond Borders Travel program.

Beyond Borders Travel offers supported small group adventures for people living with disability, helping them learn life skills, build independence and open new doors.

Beyond Borders Travel program manager Nickola Zeeuwen said small group travel provides a perfect environment for people living with disability to thrive.

“We see lasting friendships built between people who may have struggled with social isolation in the past,” Mrs Zeeuwen said.

“Social interaction and new experiences are so important in a person’s life, supporting them to build confidence and achieve goals they may have never dreamed of.”

In Claire’s case, the program has helped her make a significant life decision.

“I came back from my latest trip and sat my family down to share some big news with them. I told them I was going to move out of home and live with people my own age,” Ms McCue explained.

“They couldn’t believe it, especially Mum, because I’ve been living with her for my whole life. But everyone is very pleased I am moving forward in my life and becoming more independent.”

Claire has an NDIS package, which helps her access Beyond Borders Travel holidays. So far she has been on trips to Sydney, Coolangatta, and a comedy cruise. She is looking forward to another cruise in November this year and a trip to the Parkes Elvis Festival in January 2020.

Mrs Zeeuwen said the small group environment of Beyond Borders Travel is the secret to their success.

“We cap participant numbers at no more than 12 per trip and find that makes all the difference in developing friendships, boosting self-esteem and basically being a catalyst for other positive change within a person’s life,” Mrs Zeeuwen said.

“We believe Beyond Borders Travel is quite unique in its service offering and it’s been a pleasure to see how the program has empowered Claire and other people living with disability.”

All trips with Beyond Borders Travel are customised to the client’s needs. Visit unitingcareqld.com.au/holidays to get involved.

Media contact:
Ellen McGruer 0439 765 048
media@ucareqld.com.au