The
Philosophy of Independent Living evolved
as a means of providing choice and opportunity to people
with disabilities, enabling them to participate fully
in everyday activities. The philosophy stresses independence
through self-directed services, mobility, employment,
the importance of living arrangements, consumer assertiveness,
and participation in community activities.
Originating
in the 1970's when many physically disabled individuals concluded
that they were not sufficiently involved in their own rehabilitative
process, the philosophy challenged existing environmental,
educational, architectural and attitudinal barriers, and
called for programs designed to enable physically disabled
people to live and integrate into the community.
The
independent living movement created and nurtured principles
which promote basic dignity and self worth of each individual
person with a disability. Support service programs for people
with disabilities now enable access to the community by providing
assistance in everyday activities.
Bellwoods
Centres actively promotes an independent living philosophy
for people with disabilities, through flexible services, client
participation, and active integration into the community. Our
clients are able to initiate and contract all required personal
assistance and services. Our staff promote and teach independent
living and adaptive coping skills, and utilization of community
resources.
