Episode #50 | Damien Porter – Inclusion, Empathy, and Education: Lessons We All Need to Hear

In this episode with Damien Porter, we dive into the power of inclusive education and the lived experience of raising a family where disability is part of daily life. Damien shares heartfelt stories and practical insights on how schools—and society—can better support, empower, and include people with disabilities. Here are the key takeaways from your podcast episode with Damien: Inclusive Education Builds BelongingMainstream schooling helps students with disabilities develop social skills, confidence, and equality by learning alongside their peers. Support Staff Make a Big DifferenceStudent Support Officers (SSOs) are crucial in mainstream settings to assist with non-academic needs, enabling students to participate independently. Lived Experience Should Shape SystemsInvolving people with disabilities in school planning, accessibility design, and policy-making leads to more practical and inclusive outcomes. Empathy Grows Through CuriosityDamien encourages open dialogue—letting children ask honest questions about disability helps normalise difference and build empathy early. Self-Worth is Key to Post-School SuccessYoung people with disabilities need to believe in their value and potential to thrive in employment—not be limited by outdated assumptions. Never Assume—Always AskMany assumptions are made about people with disabilities; real understanding only comes from asking, listening, and learning from lived experience. More About Damien Damien is a passionate disability advocate with 47 years of lived experience. A proud father of three and devoted husband, Damien’s commitment to access and inclusion is deeply personal — his wife and two of his children also live with disability. He champions the rights of people with disabilities to live full, meaningful lives, and is a strong voice for inclusive education, advocating for students with disabilities to be supported in mainstream schools whenever possible. Damien brings compassion, lived wisdom, and practical insights to every conversation. Email: [email protected] Linkedin: Damien Porter Take the Your Schools Wellbeing ScorecardJoin the Wellbeing Wizard Waitlist