The right to independent living is realized through coordinated services that support the everyday participation of people with disabilities in society. International experience shows that these valuable services and activities are more practical and effective when delivered by organizations centered on the participation and leadership of people with disabilities. Independent living centers therefore provide the following main forms of support.
Personal assistance services
People with disabilities who take part in independent living programs have different needs. Depending on their functional abilities, some require support from others with everyday activities. Personal assistance enables them to participate in social and cultural life, study effectively and work. The independent living center assesses each person's needs and assigns assistants who have completed training and developed the necessary skills.
Assistants are trained and appointed to provide services suited to the person's needs, with an understanding of human rights and human dignity. They must respect the person's wishes, independence, choices and dignity, and strictly protect their privacy.
Peer counseling
Psychological distress is one of the major difficulties people with disabilities may face. Group and individual conversations with peers who have similar disabilities play an important role in finding ways to overcome barriers to participation and other disability-related challenges. Internationally, this service is known as peer counseling. It is a core activity of independent living centers. It can motivate people to participate in society, seek employment, overcome difficulties, develop themselves and pursue education. Through this service, people with disabilities identify and understand their own approaches to the many challenges life can present. A trained person with a disability facilitates the sessions according to a defined theme and program.
Social participation and independent living programs
Some people with disabilities experience long periods of isolation because social protection systems do not meet their needs and because of negative attitudes in society and their families. Limited access to education and social interaction can also mean that activities others consider straightforward become difficult for program participants.
For example, a person may fear that they cannot manage banking, particularly using modern smart devices, or feel embarrassed or anxious. They may even believe they cannot prepare their own meals. To help address these concerns, the center assesses the person's circumstances and may arrange a temporary residential stay as part of an independent living program. Support may be needed for 1 to 6 months or, for some people, for several years. Helping someone become a valued, responsible member of society is not straightforward when they have spent a long time isolated, spoken only with family members, and had limited opportunities to make decisions and choices or take responsibility for matters affecting them. This service makes that development possible.
Independent living programs and peer counseling help people become active members of society who want to participate. Assessments and conversations determine which services each person needs, how much support is appropriate and for how long.
Training and information services
Training and information activities should be delivered regularly to support independent living, employment and greater social participation. Training is planned around each person's needs and interests and covers areas such as daily life, relevant laws and government services.
Other
Other support includes encouraging participation in public seminars, training and meetings, and involving people in advocacy to create an accessible environment for everyone and change negative social attitudes.