Rehabilitation and habilitation of persons with disabilities: recommendations of the European Disability Forum

The document of the European Disability Forum highlights the problems and barriers in the field of rehabilitation of persons with disabilities in the EU, and provides recommendations for improving access to quality services.

The European Disability Forum (EDF) has prepared a policy paper on an important topic access to quality rehabilitation and habilitation services for people with disabilities in the European Union.

In the document:

• The importance of rehabilitation and habilitation for people with disabilities is described in detail;
• international standards (the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, WHO initiatives) were analyzed;
• describes the current problems and barriers in the field of rehabilitation services in the EU countries;
• clear recommendations for the European Union and member state governments to improve access to medical and social rehabilitation services.

Main challenges:

• limited availability of rehabilitation services in communities;
• lack of qualified personnel;
• Insufficient number of auxiliary aids and support services;
• problems with transportation and infrastructure accessibility;
• uneven quality of service provision.

The document emphasizes: rehabilitation and habilitation should be accessible, person-centered, voluntary and ensure participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making.

This position paper will be useful for professionals, authorities, NGOs and all those working to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities in Ukraine and Europe.

Full text of the document - [download here]

European Disability Forum (EDF) - is an independent non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of 100 million European citizens with disabilities. EDF is a unique platform that brings together representative organizations of people with disabilities from all over Europe. The organization is led by people with disabilities and their families, making it a powerful and united voice for people with disabilities in Europe.

Unofficial translation by the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine.