Maureen saw need and met it

A WOMAN who founded the first volunteer-supported respite care program of its kind has been recognised with the HESTA Unsung Hero Award.

Maureen Crawford’s determination 35 years ago to support children with a disability and their families led to the establishment of Interchange. “The Unsung Hero award was the most amazing surprise for me and a big honour,” the 71-year-old said.

“It’s also lovely for Interchange and I’m really thrilled.

“But the real unsung heroes are those parents who have children with disabilities – it’s 24 hours a day, seven days a week; there’s no break.”

Forty-three years ago Maureen’s life changed when she had her second baby, James.

“You go from the first baby having no problems, life is rosy and it’s all about the joy of living,” she said.

“Then 18 months later the second baby is born with a severe intellectual disability, cerebral palsy and autism.”

Maureen said she struggled, especially when James became a toddler.

“You feel as if your whole life is tied up with a disabled child.

“I struggled to look after my other children.

“My husband was a very busy businessman, and we have families, but they have their own responsibilities. I was basically on my own.

“When I was with the children I was constantly listening and looking out for James, worrying about what trouble he could get into.”

Maureen found there was no community organisation that offered respite care and realised countless other parents would be in a similar position. So with a small group of parents and assistance from the (then) City of Camberwell, she opened the first Interchange program.

Interchange has grown to become a member body for 12 agencies throughout Victoria and interstate that offer respite and social opportunities to children with disabilities and their families.

About 4000 children are supported each year. Interchange’s growth in the early years was largely due to the tireless efforts of Maureen and many others.

“Philanthropic trusts have been tremendous in their support,” she said. “My mother gave me a great faith – seek and you will find. If you ask for help, you’ll get it.”

After 12 years building a major community-based support provider, Maureen took a step back.

“Interchange was well and truly running under its own impetus and I decided it was time to take on other roles.

“I was a trained social worker, so I completed a masters degree in psychological medicine, and am now counselling parents who are struggling with the grief of having their children diagnosed with intellectual disabilities.”

Another Victorian, Karen Barnett of Port Phillip Housing Association, took out the Social Impact gong at the HESTA Community Sector awards.