Majority of Romanians express concern about unintentionally disrespecting individuals with disabilities, as per research findings
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Half of Romanians without disabilities want to help those with disabilities, but many are scared to offend, according to a study by CED Romania and Accenture, backed by European Accessibility Resource Centre AccessibleEU. This groundbreaking study, which analyzed the perspectives of non-disabled, disabled people, and their caregivers, reveals striking disparities concerning the social integration of those with disabilities.
The key findings sound an urgent alarm, urging society to better align with the actual needs of people with disabilities. In defining their essential needs, 82% of people with disabilitiesfocus on social activities and cultural and recreational activities, whereas 68% of non-disabled individuals prioritize state assistance and psychological counseling.
When given the responsibility, 85% of non-disabled individuals believe the government should act as the primary integrator. However, 47% of people with disabilities and 72% of caregivers advocate for increased community involvement. The principal barriers, as reported by non-disabled individuals, revolve around a lack of knowledge, interaction experience, and fear of offending.
"A Family of Millions," a national awareness-raising initiative by CED Romania and Accenture, will aim to break down these barriers. To incite societal engagement, the project partners are unveiling "The Door of a Family of Millions," a symbolic monument in Bucharest. This structure will symbolize the threshold that society must cross to bridge the gap between isolation and integration.
Cristina Căluianu, founding member and board member of CED Romania Center for Excellence in Diversity, emphasizes the importance of concrete actions in promoting real integration. "We cannot talk about inclusion as long as we remain at the level of statements. We need tangible actions to make a difference."
The study also delved into the opportunities for community participation through the professional environment. With an astounding 78% of people with disabilities in Romania not taking part in professional activities or seeking employment in the past year, the study indicates the labor market's inadequacy in integrating them. A majority believe the education system is insufficient for their professional preparation, while only 40% of non-disabled individuals consider professional participation essential for an independent life.
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Source: Radu, Dreamstime.com
- In light of the study, it's alarming to see that while 85% of non-disabled individuals believe the government should take the primary responsibility for integration, 47% of people with disabilities and 72% of caregivers advocate for increased community involvement in health-and-wellness and mental-health matters.
- The study further reveals that while 68% of non-disabled individuals prioritize state assistance and psychological counseling, 82% of people with disabilities focus on social activities, cultural, and recreational activities, highlighting the need for a shift in the emphasis on health-and-wellness and mental-health services.
