Loneliness is a growing issue affecting productivity, mental health and inclusion across the globe. While this invisible force impacts diverse groups, people with disabilities often face unique barriers that limit their potential. As businesses and communities become more connected, the challenge is finding ways to build a culture where everyone can thrive and contribute fully.

Kerry Bolton understands this. In fact, finding ways to help people connect drives everything she does. As the Founder of Caring Lotus, a Melbourne-based disability service provider, she’s inspired by her own personal experience and is passionate about uplifting people in her community.

“I started Caring Lotus because I wanted to empower people with disabilities to have more control over their lives,” she tells The CEO Magazine. “We work with many people who feel isolated, overlooked and disconnected from the community around them.

“When I started Caring Lotus, I did it with one big goal in mind: to close that gap and create a place where people feel connected and supported.

“The basis of the work we do is to provide our clients with the support they need to access the world around them. This benefits everyone: it breaks down barriers and misperceptions about disability, and it gives our clients the opportunity to feel connected.

She adds, “Loneliness isn’t just one person’s struggle – it’s something we can tackle together. We’re here to make sure no-one feels they have to go it alone. That’s where real change starts.

“For me, it’s about more than just helping our clients – it’s about building a community where kindness and connection spread beyond our walls. When people feel supported, they go on to support others, creating a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond our direct reach. That’s the impact I want Caring Lotus to have on the world.”

A bespoke service

Bolton’s outstanding work in changing lives for the better has been recognized by her nomination as a finalist for CEO of the Year Professional Services at The CEO Magazine’s 2024 Executive of the Year Awards. She attributes the operational excellence of Caring Lotus to three core areas.

“The heart of our success lies in our commitment to personalized care, innovation and a deep sense of community,” she says. “We don’t just match clients with support workers based on needs; we pair them with people who share their interests, building real connections.”

For example, Sarah, a client with a love of gardening, was matched with Emily, a support worker who shares her passion. And Ricky, a client who loves working on cars, was matched with a support worker who was formerly a mechanic.

“When Ricky was paired with a support worker who’d been a mechanic, his world changed. He felt heard,” she says.

Bolton explains that tailored solutions such as these, which may appear to be minor details, actually form the foundation of effective care. “These aren’t just details; they’re what make care meaningful,” Bolton says.

Innovative care

Technology today forms a crucial part of the care infrastructure, and Caring Lotus has placed it at the very center of its offering.

The team’s dedicated app makes life easier for staff, bringing everything they need – from quick links to client notes – all in one place. “The app frees up time, so our support workers can focus on people, not paperwork,” Bolton explains. “This way, we keep things personal even as we grow.”

This commitment to innovation also helps it achieve its mission to provide personalized care.

“We’ve developed the Caring Lotus app to streamline our operations and enhance client experiences. The app centralizes communication, forms and resources, making life easier for our staff to give our clients the best care possible. It even includes links to essential support services, so help is always at their fingertips,” Bolton says.

Spirit of community

Loneliness is a significant challenge for many people with disabilities, who are far more likely to experience social isolation compared to the general population, with 14 percent reporting they have no close friends at all. To combat this, Caring Lotus organizes a range of in-person activities aimed at building a strong sense of community and connection.

“Our events are something that I’m very proud of,” Bolton says. “Isolation is a huge issue for our clients and support workers. We hold weekly arts-and-crafts gatherings where clients can play board games, create art and simply enjoy each other’s company.”

“Each month, we organize special outings – whether it’s trips to the zoo, the Blue Lotus Gardens or movie nights. We host diversity potlucks for clients and staff to share food and stories. And for our staff, we plan fun events like dinners, scavenger hunts and trivia nights, creating moments that feel like family.”

Bolton’s vision is reflected in the name Caring Lotus. “The lotus flower blooms in muddy water, rising beautifully against the odds. In the same way, I believe everyone has the potential to overcome their challenges,” she says.

“Our mission at Caring Lotus is to make sure people feel that – every day, in every way.”