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A significant theme to emerge from my research was how a holistic, personalised approach had a positive impact on the wellbeing of disabled people. Across the various places I visited, it was clear that when support is personalised and considers the whole person, it not only addresses immediate wellbeing needs but also empowers individuals to live fully, with greater autonomy and purpose. This reinforced my view that truly effective support must be as diverse and complex as the people it serves, providing the foundation for more inclusive wellbeing.
Having met with many disabled people on my travels, I asked the question;
What does wellbeing mean to you?
“Not being seen as odd, different, unusual”
“Not being seen as odd, different, unusual”
“Being able to get on the train and not having to worry if the train will have somewhere there to help me when I get off”
“Being able to get on the train and not having to worry if the train will have somewhere there to help me when I get off”
"Being given the freedom to make choices”
"Being given the freedom to make choices”
“Not feeling like I’m living life on the sidelines”
“Not feeling like I’m living life on the sidelines”
“Being seen as a person. I don’t want disability to be an exception anymore where someone is surprised to see a paraplegic. It’s just normal”
“Being seen as a person. I don’t want disability to be an exception anymore where someone is surprised to see a paraplegic. It’s just normal”
“Being seen and valued for who I am, without judgement or pity”
“Being seen and valued for who I am, without judgement or pity”
This highlights the importance of understanding that wellbeing is unique and a one size-fits-all concept is not the right way forward. I was struck by their desire to not to be viewed as exceptions, but rather as an integral part of the social fabric.
Each of the countries I visited, together with the organisations I spoke with and the people I met, deepened my understanding of how a personalised approach is key to better wellbeing.
Below are my findings from organisations around the world:
New Zealand
Tasmania Healthy Eating Programme
Australia
New Zealand
Canada
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