International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2022: ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development’

Posted: 30/11/2022

The theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities is ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world’.

The day itself, which takes place on Saturday 3 December 2022, was first proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly 30 years ago to promote an understanding of disability issues and to provide support.

There are three topics which are encompassed by this year’s theme:

• innovation for disability-inclusive development in employment – including consideration of assistive technologies, and how these could improve accessibility to employment;
• innovation for disability-inclusive development in reducing inequality – with a focus on both public and private sectors and promoting diversity;
• innovation for disability-inclusive development with sport as an exemplar case.

We regularly act for and support those with significant disabilities and appreciate the challenges they face on a daily basis, whether in their schools, workplaces, public areas and, indeed, their own homes, without the required support, access and equipment.

Claims are focused on recovering damages to fund items such as care, therapies, equipment, assistive technology and appropriate accommodation in light of these challenges. Specific examples and how such input could make a difference are set out below:

• communication aids (low and high tech), with personalised interfaces, to enable communication in both private and public settings;
• mobility aids to enable independent mobility in private and public spaces;
• environmental control systems, with adapted interfaces, to enable independent control of the individual’s environment;
• level access accommodation to facilitate and enable independence;
• occupational therapy to consider function, and any equipment/adjustments to enable independence and engagement;
• physiotherapy to maintain physical function and reduce the risk of deterioration;
• speech and language therapy to optimise communication and feeding;
• care and support to ensure that the individual can access the opportunities, as far as possible, that they would have had, but for their disabilities.

With the right interventions and support, we have seen individuals thrive and succeed in education, work and the sporting arena. Former clients who have been labelled as having severe physical and cognitive disabilities have gone to university, found roles in the workplace, and represented their country in the international sports arena.

Advances in technology over the last few years really have provided ‘transformative solutions’ and it is hoped that this will continue, to ensure that those with disabilities thrive in an ‘accessible and equitable world’.

If you, a family member, or a friend, have any concerns about events or treatment leading to disability, the Penningtons Manches Cooper team can provide initial advice and an informal, no obligation chat. Please contact us on 0800 328 9545, email clinnegspecialist@penningtonslaw.com or complete our online assessment form.

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