March 8 is International Women’s Day, observed for over one hundred years to mobilise and highlight issues impacting the advancement of women, as well as celebrate achievements. Today, as has been for years, the end goals are gender parity and equal opportunity.
While there has been advancement, there remains much to be achieved. Culture, geography, societal attitudes, representation, religion, and institutional and organizational norms continue to present barriers to advancement. These are often highlighted on International Women’s Day (IWD).
But IWD also provides an important platform for raising awareness of issues that might not always get the attention they deserve.
This includes the role of women in caregiving, including care for individuals living with a disability.
“IWD is an opportunity to reflect on progress and continue to strive for change”
Cassie Kenyon, General Manager, Hearth Allied Health
Cassie Kenyon, General Manager of Hearth Allied Health points out that generally, women often carry much of the caring responsibility and it can lead to unrecognized burden.
“Caregiving is vital work. It is disproportionately provided by women, and that can lead to stress, financial instability, and neglect of their own health, career or aspirations,
Cassie says.
“This includes the emotional, physical, and financial strain that comes with looking after family members who need additional care.
Disability brings added dimension to care
Cassie Kenyon says that in the case of disability care, it is especially important to recognise that it can be a lifelong commitment.
“It is under recognised that often disability care affects women’s career trajectories, income potential, and mental health.
“The recognition of this commitment is often limited to family and friends rather than broader societal acknowledgment.
“What this means is women who provide care for disabled family members rarely receive the acknowledgment, help or financial support that would help ease their challenges.
Societies and economies risk missing out
There is wide global recognition that women play a key role in the stability and development of communities and nations, the undervaluing of their work means the full contribution is often not realized.
Cassie Kenyon says in the case of caregiving, when this work is undervalued, it can perpetuate systemic bias.
“It leads to a situation where women often give so much of themselves without receiving enough in return, which can impede their full participation in society, whether it’s in the workforce or in other areas.
“Acknowledging and supporting women’s caregiving roles would create a more balanced society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
The importance of sharing stories and insights
Rebecca Coombe, General Manager of Finance at Hearth says that she has increasingly realized how powerful it is when women share their experiences.
“For me, just opening up can create ‘aha’ moments that lead to real change. This includes speaking about balancing work with family, dealing with biases, or finding the courage to peak up in a room of strong voices”, Rebecca says.
She adds that the testimonials keep her engaged every day.
“It's about understanding that every story can hold value”
Rebecca Coombe, Hearth General Manager, Finance
“I rely on these stories daily to hold myself accountable and responsible for not allowing things to slide backwards out of complacency.
“They are a constant reminder that progress isn’t something we can take for granted. It’s easy to assume that once a barrier is broken, it stays that way. But the truth is, without active effort and vigilance, things can backslide.
“These stories give me the push I need to stay engaged, to speak up when I see something that doesn’t sit right, and to always strive for better. It’s about keeping the momentum going and ensuring that the progress we make is not just a moment in time but a lasting change.”
