A Review of Literature on Natural Community Supports
We commissioned a review of literature on natural community supports in the context of independent living. It specifically set out to address the question: “what is the role of natural supports in facilitating independent living on the part of people with disabilities?”.
The findings, published in 2011, informed a survey of service providers.
Exploring the Use of Natural Community Supports in Promoting Independent Living among Adults with Disabilities in Ireland
We commissioned a nationwide survey of service providers which provide supports to people with disabilities, regarding their experiences of mobilising natural supports to enhance independent living for people with disabilities in their local communities.
Weafer and associates carried out the survey on behalf of the NDA and data were collected by means of a telephone and self-completion survey. The survey team reported in early 2012.
Read the full 'Exploring the Use of Natural Community Supports in Promoting Independent Living among Adults with Disabilities in Ireland' report.
Living at Home with a Disability - The Experiences of People with Disabilities of Support from Their Community
This 2012 research report explores what makes independent living easier or more difficult for people with disabilities. In particular, it looked at how everyday contacts and networks, the natural supports that a community offers, can support someone with a disability to live in their own home and participate in their community.
The research is based on 54 in-depth interviews with people across a range of disabilities, ages and urban and rural settings. OCS carried out the research on behalf of the National Disability Authority.
Read the full 'Living at home with a disability - the experiences of people with disabilities of support from their community' report.