FRAME RUNNING WOLLONGONG IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR CHILDREN WITH A DISABILITY

Words Hayley Griffiths @hayleyg.creative Images Spencer Dungey @loveofmine.co

It all started with three passionate women – Sian Napper, Renee Jurgielan and physiotherapist Suzy Lock had a vision to give children with mobility challenges the freedom to move and play together. This has since developed into an not-for-profit charity called Frame Running Wollongong. Their mission is to enable preschool and primary school-aged children with a disability or impaired balance to participate in physical activity while enjoying social participation, inclusion and equal opportunity.

The journey began 18 months ago with the idea of introducing innovative ‘Frame Runners’ to the Illawarra. A Frame Runner is a three-wheeled mobility device (similar to a trike but with no pedals), which allows those who can’t stand, or struggle to walk, to independently move, and with some practice, run too.

With support from the local community and a team of dedicated volunteers, the program has expanded to offer children the opportunity to experience the joy of movement, while also providing a valuable support network for parents and siblings. Founder and physiotherapist Suzy Lock explains that often she comes across parents of children with mobility issues who are frustrated with the lack of opportunity for their kids to be involved in physical activity.

“As a result, these kids can feel isolated from their peers at school or in the playground,” Suzy says.“However, Frame Running Wollongong has changed this for many children as they learn to move, work together and have fun building lifelong skills with their friends.”

Frame Running Wollongong recently became a funding recipient of the IMB Bank Community Foundation in 2022, which has enabled the organisation to expand their services and make a positive impact to the lives many more kids in the Wollongong region.“We are supporting 52 diverse grassroots projects that aim to build brighter futures for Australian communities,” the chief executive of IMB Bank, Robert Ryan, says.“Funding will provide a much-needed boost as they rebuild, recover and plan ahead after several challenging years.”

From the purchase of additional Frame Runners (costing $6000 each) and safety barriers, to further investment in volunteer training, the grant has been an invaluable contribution to help achieve the vision of the organisation.

Every week, a group of 15 or so children arrive at the University of Wollongong Sports Hub – a venue partner that operates the program – for an afternoon of games, team building and skill development with a volunteer assigned to each participant.

The program consists of one hour after school per week, where the kids experience a sporting activity – Frame Running with targeted goals, assessment, outcomes, and fun and inclusivity. And the fun is not just for these kids but their siblings, too.

The whole family is encouraged to come along, with a sibling program offered and afternoon tea shared together.

“It’s about inclusive sporting fun, playing games, making new friends and the freedom of movement, but most of all putting a smile on kids’ faces,” says Suzy.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, the Frame Running Wollongong team would love to hear from you. For more information visit framerunningwollongong.org.au