ILMI eBulletin 16th February 2024

 

 


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ILMI eBulletin
ILMI eBulletin 16th February 2024   

In this issue:
ILMI Employment Consultation spaces
ILMI Valentine’s Staff   “Think-in”
University of Atypical for Arts and Disability
‘Never Know Your Place’

Update on ILMI Employment Consultation spaces: Developing a DPO analysis of how systems need to change!
IMAGE: a screenshot from one of the meetings with text that reads “This week more: disabled activists came online to collectively participate in workshops towards developing an ILMI employment campaign.”

On Tuesday (13th) and Thursday (15th) disabled activists came online to collectively participate in workshops towards developing an ILMI employment campaign.

On Tuesday we explored experiences of accessing mainstream employment support programmes. Interestingly, the majority of activists had more engagement with disability specific employment supports. There was a large discussion on how any system that is designed to support disabled people needs to be led by and staffed by disabled people. There was also a call for greater transparency on how effective these employment support programmes are run and what the actual impact is in terms of meaningful employment of disabled people when they access these services.

On Thursday night, activists explored the provision of information relating to reasonable accommodation and supports. Most disabled people found information about employment supports themselves or through peer networks and noted the need for a centralised information system for disabled employees and employers. There was a need to reform the reasonable accommodation fund and put the resources into the control of disabled people to be able to identify and resource the supports they need to actively participate in employment.

The remaining ILMI employment discussion spaces over February and March are as follows:

Role of entrepreneurs / business start-up supports for disabled people Tuesday 29th February 12 noon to 2pm

Employment and cost of disability Tuesday March 5th 12 noon to 2pm

Mainstream mentoring programmes (including within large corporations CSR) Thursday 7th March 12 noon to 2pm

All these discussions will take place on Zoom and be facilitated to develop collective analysis of how systems should be designed, built and resourced to realise disabled people’s potential in employment. These discussions will be guided by ILMI’s core values of human rights, collective empowerment and social justice.

What will this process deliver?

ILMI will have its own vision for systems change to build expectations for disabled people in accessing employment.

ILMI will have an analysis on what needs to change on different levels.

ILMI can share this analysis with disabled people to inform local and national policy discussions (especially in relation to a new CRPD implantation strategy)

ILMI can focus on key thematic policy issues under our Social Justice value in our new strategic plan to take strategic actions.

To register for specific thematic discussions, email info@ilmi.ie with the discussion you wish to attend.

ILMI Valentine’s Staff   “Think-in”
IMAGE: photo shows the ILMI Team holding a hearts banner. (Back row left to right: Peter Kearns, James Casey, Nina Byrne, Damien Walshe, Elaine Walsh. Front row left to right: Paula Soraghan, Shelly Gaynor, Fiona Weldon, Nicola Meacle and Claire Kenny – we missed you Colm Whooley!)

On Valentine’s Day, the Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI) gathered for a Staff “Think-in” infused with the organisation’s core values of human rights, collective empowerment, and social justice. Assembled with purpose, our ILMI team embarked on a journey of strategic planning and collaboration, outlining initiatives for the next three months with unwavering enthusiasm. The atmosphere brimmed with anticipation as we recognised the transformative potential of our efforts. Our work holds the promise of dismantling barriers and effecting tangible change in the lives of disabled people across Ireland.

At the heart of the Think-in lay the essence of collective empowerment. Each team member brought forth their unique insights, skills, and passion, understanding the pivotal role they played in realising our organisation’s mission. Together, we explored avenues to support and amplify each other’s projects and work plans, fostering a culture of solidarity and mutual assistance. As disabled people, we embrace our unique intersectionality and welcome others to join our movement. We understand the multifaceted challenges facing disabled people nationwide and are committed to creating an inclusive platform where all voices are heard. Whether it’s through discussions, consultations, programmes, or direct engagement, we invite you to be part of our journey. Looking ahead, ILMI embraces the challenges and opportunities that lie on the horizon. Armed with a strategic plan grounded in human rights, collective empowerment, and social justice, the organisation is poised to lead the charge towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

University of Atypical for Arts and Disability
PHOTO: Emma Fisher (Atypical Community Engagement Manager), Peter Kearns (ILMI) & Damien Coyle (Former Atypical CEO and visual-artist)

Recognising that not only physical and economic barriers ‘disable’ us, ILMI is very keen to explore solutions and creative approaches that can effectively dismantle disabling cultural barriers and medical model type non-disabled arts mis-representations with the lived experiences of disabled people. ILMI’s Peter Kearns had meetings and facilitated a disability arts social model session with Belfast based Atypical University (NI Arts & Disability Forum) this week at their new ‘Ledger’ workshop space, named after their former CEO and ILMI supporter Chris Ledger, who Peter had worked  with for over 20-years in Disability Arts in Ireland and the UK. Peter talked about disabled people being much more the arts centre ‘new’ audiences and asked attending art venue managers & staff to deal directly with disabled arts & culture makers as ‘new’ producers and directors. ILMI and NI Atypical University’s new CEO Edel Murphy will be meeting-up to explore how both DPOs can work both sides of the border to develop supports for a Republic of Ireland cross-impairment Disability Arts ‘DPO’ and replicate some of the training and arts supports rolled-out across the six-counties with disabled artists and mainstream arts venues. Peter used his Belfast visit to also continue the ongoing conversation between ILMI and Atypical on getting the award winning play NO MAGIC PILL to possibly do a UK funded tour in some theatres from Belfast to Derry.

‘Never Know Your Place’
The upcoming book, ‘Never Know Your Place’ by Martin Naughton, offers a gripping narrative of activism’s ignition—from ordinary individual to passionate advocate. It focuses solely on the beginnings of his journey, tracing his evolution into a leading figure in Ireland’s disability rights movement. This remarkable account inspires not only disabled activists but all advocates of social change.

ILMI is thrilled to announce: there is less than a month away from the release! Published by O’Brien Press on March 11th, the book will be available in both print and e-book formats. For more details, visit www.obrien.ie  Catch a glimpse of the book in a sneak peek video by co-author Joanna Marsden.

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ILMI eBulletin 9th February 2024

 

 


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ILMI eBulletin
ILMI eBulletin 9th February 2024   

In this issue:
LMI’s Disability Employment Strategy Consultation
NDA National Disability Strategy

LMI’s Disability Employment Strategy Consultation
IMAGE: two Zoom screen shots of the participants

Update on ILMI Employment Consultation spaces: Developing a DPO analysis of how systems need to change!  

On the evenings of Tuesday (6th) and Thursday (8th) disabled activists came online to collectively participate in workshops towards developing an ILMI employment campaign.

On Tuesday night, activists discussed further and adult education. Topics included the lack of supports in further and adult education, the need to reform provision of Personal Assistance in third level settings, access issues (physical, provision of ISL and so on) and the expectations for disabled people in further education through Education and Training boards (ETBs).

On Thursday night, activists explored internalised oppression and internalised ableism. In an honest discussion in a trusting space, activists spoke about the impact of societal systems on disabled people’s views of themselves. In an uplifting collective space, activists dug into how DPO spaces create that chance for disabled people to share their experiences and look at how to create ways to  build solidarity to anlayse and the impact of internalised oppression.

The remaining ILMI employment discussion spaces over February and March are as follows:

  1. Mainstream employment services; including employment activation programmes such as CE, Tus and SICAP Tuesday 13th February 12 noon to 2pm
  2. Access to information on benefits and pathways; including reasonable accommodations and supports in employment; Thursday 15th February 12 noon to 2pm
  3. Role of entrepreneurs / business start-up supports for disabled people Tuesday 29th February 12 noon to 2pm
  4. Employment and cost of disability Tuesday March 5th 12 noon to 2pm
  5. Mainstream mentoring programmes (including within large corporations CSR) Thursday 7th March 12 noon to 2pm

All these discussions will take place on Zoom and be facilitated to develop collective analysis of how systems should be designed, built and resourced to realise disabled people’s potential in employment. These discussions will be guided by ILMI’s core values of human rights, collective empowerment and social justice.
What will this process deliver? 

  • ILMI will have its own vision for systems change to build expectations for disabled people in accessing employment.
  • ILMI will have an analysis on what needs to change on different levels.
  • ILMI can share this analysis with disabled people to inform local and national policy discussions (especially in relation to a new CRPD implantation strategy)
  • ILMI can focus on key thematic policy issues under our Social Justice value in our new strategic plan to take strategic actions.

To register for specific thematic discussions, email info@ilmi.ie with the discussion you wish to attend. 

National Disability Strategy Consultation: Act Now!

The deadline for completing the National Survey is quickly approaching – Sunday, 11th February 2024. Have you made your contribution yet? Your input is invaluable in shaping a comprehensive strategy that truly reflects the needs all of us disabled people in Ireland. To get involved and share your insights, click on this link 

If you prefer alternative methods, the survey is available through various formats, catering to different accessibility needs. You can choose from options such as the Easy to Read version, Screen reader version, Irish Sign Language (ISL) version, or participate via telephone or post. Find the format that suits you best by clicking here: [Accessibility Options]

In addition to the online survey, the NDA invite you to attend two in-person Town Hall events designed to further inform the National Disability Strategy. Here are the details:

1. Galway Town Hall –   The registration for the Galway Town Hall is now closed as NDA have reached capacity. To join the waiting list, please email nda-events@nda.ie
– Date: Monday, February 12, 2024
– Time: 11 am to 3 pm (including lunch)
– Location: The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Lough Atalia Road, Galway, H91 CYN3

2. Cork Town Hall
– Date: Saturday, February 17, 2024
– Time: 10:30 am to 3 pm (including lunch)
– Location: Clayton Hotel Cork City, Lapp’s Quay, Cork, T12 RD6E, Ireland

To register for the Cork Town Hall, click on this link

Your participation is crucial in shaping policies that directly impact the lives us as disabled people. Make your voice heard and be a part of this important initiative!

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ILMI eBulletin 2nd February 2024

 

 


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ILMI eBulletin
ILMI eBulletin 2nd February 2024   

In this issue:
LMI’s Disability Employment Strategy Consultation
Age Action
Disability Arts
Leitrim DPO
ILMI VOICE
We Are Human Too
Abuse against Disabled Women Research Opportunity
NDA National Disability Strategy

LMI’s Disability Employment Strategy Consultation

IMAGE: two Zoom screen shots of the participants

ILMI’s Disability Employment Strategy Consultation recently concluded sessions two and three, fostering robust and solution-oriented discussions exclusively for disabled people. Leveraging our collective expertise and experience, our participants engaged in deep conversations, contributing valuable insights that will shape a distinctive and impactful outcome.

During the “Expectations for Disabled People in Primary and Post-Primary Education” session held on Tuesday, January 30th, discussions delved into crucial topics such as Career Guidance, the experiences of disabled people in educational settings, the pivotal role of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), and the importance of teacher training colleges, encompassing teacher expectations and in-service training.

Moving forward, our session on Wednesday, February 1st, centred on the theme of “Parental Expectations.” The dialogue explored the positive influence that high parental expectations can have on the lives of disabled people. Participants delved into identifying supportive measures that could enhance parental expectations for their disabled children. Thought-provoking questions were posed, prompting participants to consider what changes they would advocate for in the realm of parental expectations and why.

We extend our gratitude to all participants for their lively contributions. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming session on “Experiences of Further Education and Training,” scheduled for Tuesday, February 6th, from 7 pm to 9 pm. To participate, kindly email info@ilmi.ie. The session will be conducted via Zoom and is exclusively open to disabled people. Your involvement is crucial as we collectively work towards positive change.

ILMI and  Age Action

IMAGE: Photo shows Age Action Strategic Plan Launch and Board Day in The Spencer Hotel, Dublin. ILMI’s Fiona Weldon is a board member.

On the 31st of January, Age Action launched their new strategy plan. Both staff and board members had the opportunity to meet and greet and delve into the many facets of the organisation. The Cara and Repair service  and the Get Started Programme  were discussed with great interest.

Other things highlighted included the issue of Ageism and internalised ageism, and how activism can be used to capture the collective voice of older people to shift mind-sets and promote the many qualities that older people bring to their local communities.

ILMI Disability Arts

IMAGE; photo shows Peter and 2 people sitting at a table

ILMI was delighted to have a face-to-face meeting with the Arts Council’s new Access, Diversity and Equality Officers at the roadshow in Sligo’s Model Arts Centre. ILMI’s Peter Kearns championed the role of local DPOs, such as Sligo and Leitrim, in their use of disability arts to promote positive diversity cultural narratives and discourses around the representation of disabled people in mainstream arts. Peter re-iterated ILMI’s wish for the Arts Council’s strategic support for a national cross-impairment social model led disability arts DPO to collectively realise the #UNCRPD Article-30 requiring States Parties to ensure accessibility of cultural materials, activities and heritage. It also obliges them to ‘enable’ disabled people to have the opportunity to develop and utilise their ‘creative, artistic and intellectual potential’. ILMI’s meeting with the Arts Council was about highlighting the need for appropriate policies to enhance cultural participation of disabled people.

Leitrim DPO

Image : photo of Peter with 12 people in the theatre seats

First day back for Leitrim DPO advocacy & drama at Manorhamilton Glens Arts Centre rehearsing to take their Theatre of the Oppressed play about the Dept of Social Protection Green Paper on proposed new disability payments

ILMI VOICE Green Paper Discussion

IMAGE: poster with text that is detailed below 

Attention to all residents in the VOICE counties – Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford, Carlow, and Kilkenny! Seize the opportunity to voice your opinions on the Green Paper regarding Disability Reform and Employment.

On the upcoming Wednesday, 7th February, from 12 noon to 1 pm, Peter Kearns, ILMI’s DPO Development Officer, will lead a session on the Green Paper via Zoom. The insights gathered during this discussion will be compiled and submitted to the government.

To obtain the link for attending the online meeting:

– If you reside in Cork, Kerry, or Tipperary, please contact Nicola at 087 7189237 or email her at nicolameacle@ilmi.ie

– For those in Waterford, Wexford, Carlow, or Kilkenny, please reach out to Paula at 087 1630433 or email her at paulasoraghan@ilmi.ie

Don’t miss this chance!

We Are Human Too
A co-production of the Clare Leader Forum.

IMAGE: Cover of the book in black and white a maze with a red dot and text that reads “We Are Human Too”

This ground-breaking book delves into the dark reality of neglect, abuse and deprivation of liberty faced by disabled people in Ireland. Edited by Ann Marie Flanagan, it’s a testament to the activists who challenged limiting attitudes and fought for emancipation, independent living, and human rights. This book emerges as a powerful narrative of claiming one’s own freedom. It’s a call to action for society to reject ableism, transcend charity models, and stand in solidarity.

We Are Human Too book launch. Everyone come celebrate! Please book your free ticket NOW! click here  Friday 1st March at 12 noon at the The Templegate Hotel in Clare (Doors open 11:45)

You can order your copy from the Ennis Bookshop Online Store after the launch date and if you sign up for their newsletter there’s a 10% off deal! If you can’t make the launch in Clare make sure you get your copy of this ground breaking book!


IMAGE: photo shows some of the members of the Clare Leader Forum

Abuse against Disabled Women

IMAGE poster with text detailed in the post, with Trinity and women’s aid logos

Advertisement for a confidential research opportunity, abuse against disabled women by their partners is a severe problem. If you identify as a disabled woman and have experienced abuse through a romantic partner or partners, please spend an hour participating in an interview. Please email Susan Flynn at sflynn7@tcd.ie or Sowmia Sundaresan at sundarsl@tcd.ie to find out more or communicate your interest in participating. Thank you.

National Disability Strategy Consultation: Act Now!

The deadline for completing the National Survey is quickly approaching – Sunday, 11th February 2024. Have you made your contribution yet? Your input is invaluable in shaping a comprehensive strategy that truly reflects the needs all of us disabled people in Ireland. To get involved and share your insights, click on this link 

If you prefer alternative methods, the survey is available through various formats, catering to different accessibility needs. You can choose from options such as the Easy to Read version, Screen reader version, Irish Sign Language (ISL) version, or participate via telephone or post. Find the format that suits you best by clicking here: [Accessibility Options]

In addition to the online survey, the NDA invite you to attend two in-person Town Hall events designed to further inform the National Disability Strategy. Here are the details:

1. Galway Town Hall –   The registration for the Galway Town Hall is now closed as NDA have reached capacity. To join the waiting list, please email nda-events@nda.ie
– Date: Monday, February 12, 2024
– Time: 11 am to 3 pm (including lunch)
– Location: The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Lough Atalia Road, Galway, H91 CYN3

2. Cork Town Hall
– Date: Saturday, February 17, 2024
– Time: 10:30 am to 3 pm (including lunch)
– Location: Clayton Hotel Cork City, Lapp’s Quay, Cork, T12 RD6E, Ireland

To register for the Cork Town Hall, click on this link

Your participation is crucial in shaping policies that directly impact the lives us as disabled people. Make your voice heard and be a part of this important initiative!

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Think Brain Health: Discover how healthy behaviours support your incredible brain webinar

We recently hosted our Think Brain Health: Discover how healthy behaviours support your incredible brain webinar, which was live streamed last week (Wednesday 24th January). In case you missed it, or wish to watch it back, you can access it here.

During this webinar, which was hosted by HSE Healthy Ireland and the National Dementia Office, Sarah Mc Cormack, HSE Healthy Ireland Lead, Health & Wellbeing was joined by expert panellists to discuss our brain and the healthy behaviours we can adopt to look after it. Topics covered included physical activity, healthy eating, sleep, social connectivity, avoiding harmful use of alcohol and not smoking.

We had high engagement from our audience on the day, and received very positive feedback following the webinar.

03:35 Dr Seán O’Dowd, Consultant Neurologist, Tallaght University Hospital; and Clinical Lead, National Dementia Services
14:05 Panellist discussion with Professor Brian Lawlor, Professor of Old Age Psychiatry and Site Director of Global Brian Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Catherine Blake, Dean and Head of the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dr Seán O’Dowd, Consultant Neurologist, Tallaght University Hospital; and Clinical Lead, National Dementia Services & Cathy McHale, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Institute of Memory & Cognition, Tallaght University Hospital
44:38 Q&A with Paul Maloney, Programme Manager, National Dementia Services, Services for Older People, Change & Innovation, HSE
54:14 Panellist take-home message

As promised, please find links to information, resources and supports to help adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle behaviours below:

• A variety of booklets, leaflets and resources can be downloaded/ordered from www.healthpromotion.ie, which includes The ‘Know Your Numbers Card’, a useful reminder for you to get to know more about key numbers that influence your health and wellbeing (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugars, body mass index, waist measurement, alcohol, healthy eating and active living)

Physical Activity
Physical Activity Guidelines
HSE Free Online Yoga, Pilates and Strength and Conditioning exercise videos

Healthy Eating
• Information on making healthy choices; planning and preparing food, including portion sizes.
101 Square Meals Recipe Book: Easy-to-prepare, low-budget, tasty and nutritious recipes.

Quitting Smoking
For free support to help you quit smoking:
• Visit www.quit.ie
• Call 1800 201 203
• Email support@quit.ie
• Free text QUIT to 50100

Avoiding Harmful Use of Alcohol
• For resources, including a directory of local supports and counselling services, a ‘Self-Assessment Tool’ and ‘Drinks Calculator’ visit www.askaboutalcohol.ie.

Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Information and resources for the public available on www.yourmentalhealth.ie.
• Resources available on www.healthpromotion.ie under the ‘Mental Health’ topic.

Sleep
• Learn tips for better sleep.

Community Supports and Social Connection
• Social prescribing is about making contact with a range of non-clinical community supports which can have significant benefits for their overall health and wellbeing. Visit www.allirelandsocialprescribing.ie/services-map for a list of social prescribing services and their contact details across the country.
• Libraries Ireland – Find your local library to avail of lending services, online learning and information about what is happening in your community. As part of the Healthy Ireland at Your Library programme each library has a dedicated section with books, information and resources on health and wellbeing in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

For HSE Staff
• The  HSE ‘Staff Health and Wellbeing – Resources and initiatives for adopting healthy behaviours’ brochure presents resources that have been developed at a national level and are available to all HSE staff to support their Personal Health and Wellbeing and to create supportive environments.

Thank you for your support, and if you require any further information please email HSE Healthy Ireland: healthyireland@hse.ie or the National Dementia Office: understandtogether@hse.ie
Go to the HSE Health and Wellbeing Website & our Ezine for more, listen to our Podcast, follow on Twitter, subscribe free on YouTube & join our Mailing List

 

 

 

ILMI eBulletin 29th January 2024

 

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ILMI eBulletin
ILMI eBulletin 29th January 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

As always if you want to know more about any of these articles or ILMI’s work in general then do get in touch. You can reach us at info@ilmi.ie

 

 

 

In this issue:
Joint Committee on Disability Matters report
ILMI Disability Employment Strategy
ILMI in TY
ILMI in MDI
NTA Mystery shoppers
ESRI Research
NDA NDS Consults Cork/Galway

Joint Committee on Disability Matters report on harmonisation of national legislation and the UNCRPD

On Wednesday 24th January, the Joint Committee on Disability Matters launched their report “Towards Harmonisation of national legislation with the UNCRPD”. This report reviews all articles of the UNCRPD and how they are progressing in an Irish context.

The progress review is based on information received from the Committee, including presentations and submissions made by DPOs such as ILMI. The Committee has judged progress has been made, and whether it is limited or good progress. It also notes whether there is no progress or where the situation has worsened.

Over the 33 articles reviewed, the Committee in its view feels good progress has been made on four articles with limited progress on twelve articles. It notes no progress on eleven articles and regression on two. Worryingly, the two articles that the Committee have noted a regression or worsening of circumstances are article 19 (Independent Living) and article 25 (Health).

The Committee report also makes a number of progressive recommendations to realise the UNCRPD, including a right to independent living and the need for legislation to a right to Personal Assistance, as per the ILMI PAS NOW campaign.

You can read a copy of the report here

Join the ILMI Disability Employment Strategy Online Discussion Series!

IMAGE: a cartoon book and laptop with text that reads “We invite you as a disabled person to be a part of our ILMI Disability Employment Strategy Online Discussion Series!. Navigating Education – Expectations for Disabled People. Tuesday, 30th January  at 12 noon to 2 pm, via Zoom. To register email info@ilmi.ie

Your expertise is the driving force for change!

At ILMI, we believe in the power of collective empowerment.

We believe that real inclusion comes from disabled people bringing their lived experience to collective discussions. We believe that disabled people are the experts and know what real inclusion looks like. We know that in a DPO we can develop our own critical thinking about how systems and structures need to change to bring about real change.

This is what are going to do to develop solutions-focused employment strategy, one that is practical and designed to work to meet disabled people’s needs. That’s why we invite you as a disabled person to be a part of our participative online discussions, where your journey becomes the foundation for crafting an ILMI Disability Employment Strategy that truly works for everyone.

All the themes were Co-Created with the “Strategies for Change” (SFC) Employment Working Group:

Next Session: Navigating Education – Expectations for Disabled People Tuesday 30th Jan at 12 noon to 2pm .email info@ilmi.ie to register

As a disabled person, you are the expert in your own life. You know the barriers, the challenges, and most importantly, the solutions. Join us in this collaborative effort to tease out the nuances, explore themes in-depth, and create a disability employment strategy that leaves no one behind.

This is more than a consultation session; it’s a dynamic exchange of ideas, a convergence of experiences, and the genesis of a strategy that paves the way for inclusive and meaningful employment opportunities for all disabled people.

SOUTH DUBLIN CoCo ‘TY’ NOISE MUSIC COLLECTIVE and ILMI WORKSHOPS

IMAGE: South Dublin CoCo ILMI & Noise music Collective creative writing workshop for lyrics on lived experiences with TY students… a legacy of our work with Selina

Building on years of dedicated Disability Equality advocacy with South Dublin County Council, spearheaded by Selina Bonnie, ILMI is thrilled to return to Clondalkin post-primary schools for ‘TY’ programs, offering creative-writing workshops centred on the ‘Lived Experience’. These workshops, now a permanent fixture in South Dublin TY new year programs starting from 2024, are made possible through funding, a poignant legacy from our dearly departed Selina. Under the guidance of ILMI’s DPO Development Officer, Peter Kearns, these sessions aim to empower young people to craft their own lived experience lyrics. Partnering with NOISE Music Collective, the lyrics will be transformed into songs and ballads. Peter Kearns notes, “These engaging sessions with TY students in mainstream schools not only allow us to connect with disabled youth but also pave the way for them to consider joining our new Dublin DPO groups, particularly a Dublin Youth DPO gang.”

ILMI in MDI
On Wednesday Fiona was invited by Tania Quill (Project Officer of MDI) to speak at the Launch of Their Case Study Report. In Fiona’s presentation she talked about the importance of Independent Living as professed by the Disabled Peoples Movement. She explained that Independent Living is a philosophy, a “belief” and a particular way of living your life. Independent Living practitioners are Disabled People who are very aware that the world needs to change in order to accommodate/include them and not the other way round – it is embedded in social model “thinking”. Independent Living was born as a reaction against a tradition of institutional and/or family-based care and both “believers and thinkers” who require human support seek it in the form of Personal Assistance (PA).

A PA is an individual who is contracted by a Disabled Person to provide them with the support they need in different aspects of daily living including, personal support, domestic tasks, assistance at school, university, in the workplace, or when out and about.

Fiona told the audience that Home-Helps are NOT PA’s, Carer’s are not PA’s and Health Care Assistants are not PA’s. These people might be very nice and good at their job but if you do not choose them, or have the freedom to direct what needs doing then you are not in control.

Personal Assistant Users are very clear what Independent Living is and what it is not. They know that it is not about living on their own or doing things by yourself for yourself, it is being in control of how things are done. But moreover, having a PA supports us to life “self-determined lives”. PA’s is an interdependent relationship, PA supports us both inside and outside our homes and they get paid – it is a win win contractual agreement.

Disabled people need to be aware of large scale traditional disability service providers as these are in the business of providing specialised services that keep Disabled People from living like everyone else. Know that these services do not have any quality of life outcomes and will never relinquish their power even if they are doing a bad job.

Henceforward, Disabled People that need human support must demand Personal Assistance over any other service offered.

“We need to come together, using our lived experience “as a collective, and as a force not to be reckoned with” to dismantle the systems that “exert power over us”

Join our Movement and become “the Change Makers”.

NTA Mystery shoppers
Interested in carrying out some mystery shops on public transport? Then contact Sarah@banda.ie at the research company Behaviour and Attitudes (B and A). They are hoping to carry out the Mystery Shops by disabled people and older people in February/March and September/October of this year.
B and A would like a range of people on various types of transport nationwide and they will inform people if they are a suitable candidate and what the payment structure is.

ESRI Research
The recent research from the ESRI sheds light on the pervasive problem of ableism, uncovering how negative stereotypes surrounding certain impairments fuel prejudice and discrimination. The study, involving 2000 adults, emphasises that while society generally condemns prejudice against disabled people, higher levels of ableism are observed towards “mental health conditions”, “intellectual disabilities”, and autism compared to physical or sensory impairments. Notably, a connection between ableism and sexism was also revealed, indicating the complex interplay of biases. Ailbhe Conneely’s article for RTE further underscores the impact of ableism on disabled people’s lives, revealing that negative stereotypes can be employed to justify prejudice. The study shows that creating more inclusive communities and workplaces may be instrumental in combating ableism, with respondents familiar with disability exhibiting lower levels of prejudice. Dr Shane Timmons, the lead report author, highlights the importance of addressing subtle ableist beliefs to create a more inclusive and understanding society.

Investing in inclusion is the key to dismantling ableism. The report notes, “Having a close relationship with someone who has a disability predicted more positive attitudes across social contexts.” This insight highlights the transformative impact of personal connections in fostering understanding and breaking down prejudices. To effectively combat ableism, there needs to be a steadfast commitment to realising the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Investing in inclusion across various aspects of society, including health, education, and employment, is key. By removing societal barriers and creating conditions where disabled people can access mainstream services and spaces as equals, we pave the way for a more equitable and compassionate society. In essence, the path to eradicating ableism lies in actively fostering inclusion, embracing the principles of the CRPD, and integrating awareness of ableism into the everyday societal psyche and lexicon of the Irish population, where it can be recognised, acknowledged, and challenged, fostering empathy and dismantling discriminatory attitudes that impact on our lives on a day-to-day basis.

ESRI Press Release with links to the research on this link

RTE Report from Ailbhe Connelly on this link

NDA NDS in person Consultations Cork and Galway 

All info on this link

Cork
A free public in-person Town Hall event will be held in Cork on Saturday February 17, 2024, to help inform the National Disability Strategy.
Town Hall Details
Time: 10.30am to 3pm including lunch
Location: Clayton Hotel Cork City, Lapp’s Quay, Cork T12 RD6E, Ireland.
Please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FTTF27R to register.
Galway
A free public in-person Town Hall event will be held in Galway on Monday February 12, 2024, to help inform the National Disability Strategy.
Town Hall Details
Time: 11am to 3pm including lunch
Location: The Galmont Hotel & Spa Lough Atalia Road, Galway, H91 CYN3
Please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YLDG69B to register.

 

 

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ILMI eBulletin 19th January 2024

 

 


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ILMI eBulletin
ILMI eBulletin 19th of January 2024  

As always if you want to know more about any of these articles or ILMI’s work in general then do get in touch. You can reach us at info@ilmi.ie

In This Issue:
Employment
SFC Employment Working Group
Joint Committee on Assisted Dying
VOICE
Opinion piece in the Journal
National Disability Strategy survey

Disabled People and Employment Opportunities: Developing a DPO analysis of how systems need to change!

IMAGE: text reads “Systems need to change” in a text message format coming from ILMI, over a close up photo of a man in a suit holding plans using a wheelchair  

Developing an ILMI vision for systems change in Employment
From January 2024, LMI is creating online cross-impairment thematic discussion spaces to develop our own vision for employment.

What the Green Paper discussions on social welfare changes and employment for disabled people demonstrated was the need for ILMI as a DPO need our own long-term vision that is based on the lived experience of disabled people for what systems should look like.

What is the need?
There is an absence of a DPO- led discussion on what actually needs to happen on a systems level to increase the participation of disabled people in employment. The Comprehensive Employment Strategy 2015 to 2024 was developed in a completely different context, where no collective spaces for disabled people existed (DPOs) for disabled people to develop their own analysis of what didn’t work, what would work and how disabled people would be part of building inclusive systems and supports.

What are we going to do? How will this work and what will we develop?

  • We will create spaces for disabled people to move from how dysfunctional the system currently is towards disabled people identifying based on their expertise on how the system should change
  • We will build a shared analysis for disabled people to bring to politicians and policy makers on real systems change for disabled people in relation to employment
  • We will build a DPO led the narrative on how thing needed to change on clear but interlinked themes that show the complexity of employment.

Thematic discussions: Sign up to have your voice heard:
Working with the Strategies For Change employment working group, ILMI has identified themes that need to be explored to build a shared analysis on to inform an employment system that works for disabled people.

Themes and dates for discussions are as follows:

  1. ILMI Employment Strategy: A Call to get involved. What is this campaign? Why are ILMI doing this? When will this happen? And how will it be managed? January Wednesday 24th 12 noon to 2pm
  2. Expectations for disabled people in Primary and Post- Primary education; including Career Guidance and disabled people;  the role of SNAs and Teacher training colleges and teacher expectations (including in-service training) January Tuesday 30th January 12 noon to 2pm
  3. Parental expectations (including education and employment) Thursday 1st February 12 noon to 2pm
  4. Experiences of further education and training; Tuesday 6th February 7pm to 9pm
  5. Peer support and internalised barriers Thursday 8th February 7pm to 9pm
  6. Mainstream employment services; including employment activation programmes such as CE, Tus and SICAP Tuesday 13th February 12 noon to 2pm
  7. Access to information on benefits and pathways; including reasonable accommodations and supports in employment; Thursday 15th February 12 noon to 2pm
  8. Role of entrepreneurs / business start-up supports for disabled people Tuesday 29th February 12 noon to 2pm
  9. Employment and cost of disability Tuesday March 5th 12 noon to 2pm
  10. Mainstream mentoring programmes (including within large corporations CSR) Thursday 7th March 12 noon to 2pm

All these discussions will take place on Zoom and be facilitated to develop collective analysis of how systems should be designed, built and resourced to realise disabled people’s potential in employment. These discussions will be guided by ILMI’s core values of human rights, collective empowerment and social justice.

What will this process deliver?

  • ILMI will have its own vision for systems change to build expectations for disabled people in accessing employment.
  • ILMI will have an analysis on what needs to change on different levels.
  • ILMI can share this analysis with disabled people to inform local and national policy discussions (especially in relation to a new CRPD implantation strategy)
  • ILMI can focus on key thematic policy issues under our Social Justice value in our new strategic plan to take strategic actions.

To register for specific thematic discussions, email info@ilmi.ie with the discussion you wish to attend.

You can also register to be on a mailing list for all discussions and opt in as suits your time.

These spaces are for disabled people only.

For disabled people who are unable to attend discussions, we will facilitate ways for people to feed in their thoughts to contribute to this ILMI process.

SFC Employment Working Group

IMAGE: Screenshot of group

One of ILMI’s most remarkable achievements over the  three years has been the ground-breaking Strategies for Change course. It was designed to equip the participants (all disabled people) with the skills and knowledge to work collectively as activists and achieve change. The graduates have utilised their learning by establishing  working groups that focus on a particular topic that disabled people have to contend with. One of the themes that emerged was employment, a subject that has many facets but the members of the employment working group were determined to work together to address some of the issues related to this topic and produce something of tangible benefit for all disabled people.

The working group recognised many of the barriers  that disabled people encountered when trying to find employment, but they realised no one had ever directly asked disabled people what would the perfect suite of employment supports would like.

Now, The working group are very excited to see ILMI undertake the first intensive consultation with disabled people, an opportunity for people to articulate their vision of the type of employment supports that would really meet their needs. This process starts on the 24th of January until the 7th of March, each online meeting focuses on a particular topic and all the information will be compiled into a document which will be presented to relevant stakeholders.

Joint Committee on Assisted Dying met on the topic of “engaging with disabled people”

IMAGE Screenshot of Peter Kearns

Peter Kearns, a disabled activist, artist, and DPO development officer with the Independent Living Movement Ireland, expressed significant concerns about assisted dying at the Joint Committee on Assisted Dying. He highlighted the apprehension among disabled people, emphasising that the consideration of assisted dying comes at a time when they lack essential supports for leading fulfilling lives. Kearns cautioned that the introduction of assisted dying could lead disabled people to perceive themselves as burdens due to insufficient support. He urged the committee to focus on providing necessary practical, emotional, and medical support for disabled people to lead dignified lives, emphasising the importance of choice, control, and agency throughout their our course.

Video link is here

Opening statement, Peter Kearns, DPO Development officer, Independent Living Movement of Ireland (ILMI) link is here

RTE Article “Disabled people have ‘huge concerns’ around assisted dying, committee hears” link is here 

ILMI VOICE

IMAGE: poster for VOICE Coaching sessions detailed below

Exciting updates and upcoming events!
Come along to get involved!

On Tuesday, 23 January from 7-8pm via Zoom, the newest member of the VOICE team, Colm Whooley will talk about his role as VOICE Peer Mentor/Coach. Colm will explain how the process of Coaching works and answer any questions you may have. There will be opportunities to avail of a one-to-one coaching service.

The ILMI VOICE team will also outline how the project promotes the empowerment of disabled people and how you can get involved.

On Wednesday, 7 February from 2.30-3.30pm via Zoom, there will be an online consultation on the Green Paper. The session will be hosted by ILMI’s DPO development Officer, Peter Kearns. This will be a vital opportunity for any disabled people living in Kilkenny, Carlow, Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, Wexford or Waterford to have their voices heard on this significant proposal!

The VOICE Team will also be starting a five-week series of workshops on the 13th February that might be of interest to you. VOICE is a cross impairment space, so all disabled people over the age of 16 are welcome. The sessions take place on Zoom every Tuesday for five weeks from 7-8pm.

If you don’t feel confident about participating online, we can support you with training and we have a limited number of tablets that can be provided, if access to technology is an issue for any disabled person in Cork, Tipperary, Wexford or Waterford.

If you would like to register for the online session, please contact Nicola Meacle, VOICE Community Development worker for Cork and Tipperary, email her at nicolameacle@ilmi.ie  or phone her on 087 7189237.

If you live in Waterford or Wexford, please contact Paula Soraghan, VOICE Community Development worker for those counties at paulasoraghan@ilmi.ie  or phone her on 087 1630433.

Opinion piece in the Journal
Housing has always been a crisis for disabled people with thousands without a home
Jacqui Browne writes how Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs) can bring about policies to give disabled people choice and control over their lives.

“Why do we as a country continue to ‘throw good money after bad’?
It goes back to who is sitting around the table and setting the agenda for what disabled people actually want and need.”
Full article here 

National Disability Strategy
The NDA invite you to complete a short survey that will help shape the new National Disability Strategy. The survey will remain open until February 11 and is available in English, Irish, Easy to Read and a screen reader compatible version. Visit  here for the links.

This survey is part of a wider consultation process that is explained further here

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