Since March 2020, every person has experienced the impact of the drastic social, political, health, and economic changes brought about by the worldwide pandemic. This year International Day of Persons with Disabilities should function as an opportunity to recognise that marginalised people living with a disability are amongst those most impacted by COVID-19. Reset and recovery provides us with unique opportunities to build a better, brighter future and a more inclusive community that is "responsive to the needs and human rights of people experiencing disability" (WHO, 2020).
Ideal for All is a Disabled Peoples User-Led Organisation (DPULO), and since 1996 has provided inclusive and accessible information, advice, and co-produced services to more than 30,000 people.
Ideal for All provides Direct Payment support services, award-winning integrated Employment, Skills and Health and Wellbeing programmes (recognised by an ERSA award in 2020). Delivery is completed by Peer-support and condition management/independent living and the charity has developed 7 acres of derelict land over 3 sites into accessible community horticultural assets to support these socially enterprising activities.
"Our award-winning person-centred services highlight our continued commitment to supporting individuals with a disability. As an organisation, we believe in the importance of empowering and enhancing the capabilities of people with disabilities through creating opportunities for individuals to be independent and active citizens in their communities, particularly during this post-COVID era" (Khatija Patel, CEO of Ideal for All).
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a great opportunity for us all to take action towards making our world more inclusive for everyone. As part of this effort, we are starting the day's events with our Youth Group, showcasing their strength, and taking their lead to celebrate resilience. By borrowing their hashtag #AllTogetherDifferent21, we aim to unite everyone in the face of adversity, ensuring that disabled peoples' voices are heard. Set against the backdrop of our Employment partnership project with West Midlands Combined Authority and funded by National Lottery Community Fund, our 'Stand Out' team are asking you to join us by wearing colourful clothing. We encourage everyone to participate, using the hashtags #StandOut and #AllTogetherDifferent21 and tagging @idealforall on Facebook and Twitter to spread awareness. We hope you will join us in celebrating.