Inclusive markets aim to spread Christmas cheer
Beacon of Hope Project will host two volunteer-led festive markets at Wests Illawarra, starting on 14 November
Beacon of Hope Project is breaking down traditional market barriers with two family-friendly, disability-inclusive Christmas markets at Wests Illawarra over two weekends in November and December.
Founder Samantha Bruce says one of the biggest hurdles facing women trying to run a market stall is insurance costs.
Beacon of Hope will remove that hurdle by covering the insurance cost of the inclusive market so women and small businesses can trial businesses without needing to arrange and pay for their own cover first.
Shoppers will be under no pressure to buy or engage with vendors whose stalls have a "No Pressure" sign, and shoppers can request a "No Pressure" lanyard at the entrance – a big positive for people with sensory needs.
There will also be a dedicated sensory spot – a tent with sensory items, beanbags and fairy lights when shoppers need a break. Quiet time, when music is turned off and lights lowered, will be held from 2-2.30pm, and volunteer sensory assistants will be present. All aisles will be accessible to all participants.
The first Inclusive Christmas market is an all-ages market with more than 20 stalls on Saturday, November 14, from 11am-3pm.
Lots of handmade creations will be on offer, including clothing, jewellery, gifts and candles. Belt out a tune at Christmas karaoke from 11.30-1pm, smile in your Santa photo from 12.30-2pm, pick the winning ticket in the Christmas raffles or hope your number comes up at market bingo. Free tea and coffee is available.
The second market, on December 5, is for vendors 25 years and under.
Vendors will be selling handmade items, original works, pre-loved toys and treasures plus more. It’s a great way, says Samantha, for kids to make money before Christmas. Santa will visit from 12.30-2pm and every entry in a Christmas-themed colouring-in competition receives a ticket for the market raffle.
Again, insurance costs will be covered, and the same sensory facilities will be available.
Beacon of Hope Project is a volunteer, peer-led support community organisation that Samantha founded from her own lived experience. She started the organisation last year, using her victim service recognition payment to build a platform where healing leads to systemic change.
A group of like-minded women supported her mission, and it evolved into a community in which the knowledge of experience is breaking down barriers, creating safe spaces and showing hope is real.
For further information, follow the organisation on social media or email:
