Working On an Equal Basis With Others analysing Policy and Practice Together With Staff and Service Users

• Published in: Journal of intellectual disability research Vol. 63; no. 7; p. 717
• Main Authors: Björne, P., Runesson, Ingrid
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: CRPD; moderate intellectual disability; Work
• ISSN: 1365-2788; 0964-2633

Introduction: According to Swedish legislation, persons with ID have the right to support that enables their full inclusion in society, “living like others”. One tenet, as specified in the CRPD, is the opportunity to gain a living through freely chosen work on the labour market, “on an equal basis with others.” These concepts need to be understood in relation to people with moderate to severe ID. Methods: To explore the concepts of “work” and “living like others” in support for people with moderate to severe ID, two researchers engaged staff and persons with ID in translational research. Each group met six times separately, and one time together. Results: The staff group found that the organisation lacks structures that support the implementation of the goals of the CRPD. Organisational requirements, such as legislation on public procurement, availability of buildings and other facilities, as well as staffing, are factors that need to be addressed. Values based discussions involved the question if people with ID (in general) can take on the responsibilities of work. Preliminary data show that service users are satisfied with their opportunities to choose fulfilling and meaningful activities. Implications: The CRPD must be built into the organisational structure.