Literacy is often hidden in everyday moments — reading a form, understanding an appointment, following instructions or knowing how to ask for help.

That was the focus of a Functional Literacy Session delivered by Read Write Now at Bennett Brook Disability Justice Centre, where disability justice officers, clinicians and support staff explored practical ways to strengthen literacy support in daily interactions with residents.

The Caversham-based centre supports people with cognitive impairments who are involved in the justice system. The session looked at how functional literacy — including reading, writing, speaking, listening, memory and digital skills — can support confidence, participation and greater independence.

Discussion covered how low literacy, learning disability, cognitive impairment, trauma, stress and shame can affect communication, memory and understanding. Staff were introduced to practical strategies such as plain English, visual supports, step-by-step guidance, modelling, repetition and supported practice.

A central focus was delivering literacy support in ways that are Aboriginal culturally responsive, respectful and practical, recognising the importance of culture, trust, relationship and lived experience in learning.

The session reinforced the role literacy plays in dignity, independence and participation — and the value of collaboration between education, justice, disability support and community-based literacy programs.