Search Results » Family Advocacy

"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.

Wheelchair Village

This short, satirical article, adapted from an article written in 1975, asks us to imagine what it would be like to be an able-bodied person living in a town inhabited and run by physically impaired people who all use wheelchairs.

Circles of Support - A concept for building into community

This one-page description outlines the structure, purpose and benefit of a circle of support (consisting of a group of people committed to that person) being formed around a person with a disability. Keywords: Self determination, Inclusion

Inclusive Recreation: A Parents' Guide to Quality

The authors offer suggestions as to what parents should look for when seeking community recreation programs that will genuinely include their child.

It's Summer Time! Let's go to camp!

Cynthia Burkhour is a parent whose daughter attends a typical summer camp. In this article she suggests ways of finding a camp that will welcome a child with disability.

The Doors are Opening: Mary Jo's Story

Mary Jo's mother, Virginia Esslinger, tells how her 11 year old daughter is more actively included in Girl Scouts and gymnastics as a result of the leaders having been involved with the Rural Recreation Integration Project (RRIP) (see File No. 10921).

Why Move?

David Craven's son Brian had lived in NSW institutions since childhood. In this article, Craven writes of the family's change in thinking that led to Brian and 3 friends moving from a large Sydney institution to a home in the community nearby his family.

The Senior Family Caregiver Support Project

The Senior Family Caregiver Support Project was set up to assist families in long-term planning for their family member. In this article we meet two families who give insights into the issues, concerns and obstacles facing older caregivers. Each family has envisioned a different future for their family member.