Search Results » Family Advocacy

"Like an Angel that came to help us": The origins and workings of New Hampshire's Family Support Network

This report describes New Hampshire's innovative family support services. It details the legislative history of the program as well as its implementation throughout the state, and draws lessons for others interested in developing family-centred programs.

Developing Natural Supports in the Workplace: A Manual for Practitioners

This manual has been developed from ideas, strategies and practices developed and implemented by a supported employment organisation (Pioneer) in order to maximise on-site sources of assistance and inclusion for people with disability through developing natural supports in the workplace.

Collaboration in change: perspectives on integration in education settings

This brief paper emphasises the need for collaboration, based on 'shared ownership', between all stakeholders in the process of school inclusion (the author uses the term 'integration').

Guide to Lobbying: a guide to support strong advocacy by parents who have a son or daughter with a disability

This easy-to read guide to lobbying is designed to assist parents in their advocacy role. It emphasises the strength of joining with others in lobbying, as well as giving useful and practical tips on lobbying.

Mother matters: a fresh look at prenatal genetic testing

In this paper, Lippman takes a woman-centred approach to examine some of the issues around prenatal testing, questioning the themes of 'reassurance' and 'choice', as well as considering the concept of 'risk' and the message that prenatal testing sends about disability.

Social Role Valorisation and Special Education

Basing his arguments on Social Role Valorisation (SRV) theory, John Hall argues that the medical model is an inappropriate response to the education needs of children with disability and leads to segregation and its consequent life-wasting practices.

Looking for Quality Support

Tanya Barton highlights some of the issues that she has encountered since making a decision to live in a home of her own, leading a lifestyle of her choice.

"I wish it had happened years ago"

When Sutherland hospital (an institution in the UK) closed, many families were fearful for their family member. However, they have now discovered that their relatives, despite having high support needs, have really benefitted from the move to the community. All families are now enthusiastic about the move.

Universal design: realism or idealism?

The notion of 'barrier-free' design has been around since the 1970's; however, physical environment is still far from being fully accessible. In this article, Clark discusses the options for achieving an environment that is accessible to all.

President's Message

In his editorial, John Moxon underlines the fact that one of the biggest problems facing people with disabilities is the attitude of others.