Inclusive Living and Person-Centred Technology Member Fora learning together in Barcelona
In September, the Member Fora on Inclusive Living and Person-Centred Technology came together for a joint study visit organised by Som-Fundació in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Members from Greece, Portugal, Italy, Slovakia, and Spain were in attendance.
This visit was carried out in the framework of EASPD's Lighthouse Network, which allows members to share solutions and good practices. It promotes peer learning by bringing together EASPD members with expertise in specific topics, allowing them to learn from one another to continue to provide modern, high-quality services.
The group met first at Som-Fundació’s offices, where participants had the opportunity to share their wishes and expectations for the visit. After a scenic walk through Monjuïc, participants heard an overview of Som-Fundació key areas of work, including independent living projects, supported decision making initiatives, volunteering initiatives. The recent legislation surrounding supported decision making in Catalonia and Spain was at the core of the discussion, and it is clear that Som-Fundació is concretely applying this legislation to promote the autonomy and self-determination of the people they support. The morning also included presentations from the Autonomous University of Barcelona on accessible media and the use of VR for social skills development.
In the afternoon and on the second day, participants visited other Catalan organisations, including EASPD members DINCAT and Associació Alba. This allowed participants to see a diverse range of services in the region, and see how a “360 degree” model of care can improve the lives of people with disabilities.
Participants left the visit full of praise for the programme, and with an appreciation for the opportunity to hold joint events with other Member Fora. Moreover, the visit highlighted the strong collaboration between Som-Fundació and other local disability services. Coming together to explore shared areas of interests and expertise really brought the spirit of the Lighthouse Network to life.