Disability and Accessibility in Social Services Award

This award recognises a public authority or social services provider that has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing accessibility, inclusion, and quality of life for people with disabilities. It honours initiatives that break down barriers, promote community and independent living, and ensure equal access to social services for individuals with disabilities.

Examples of key areas in disability and accessibility in social services:

• Inclusive and Accessible Social Services – Ensuring that all public services, from healthcare to housing, are designed to be fully accessible and responsive to the needs of people with disabilities.
• Independent Living and Community Support – Expanding access to personal assistance, home adaptations and community-based care, reducing reliance on residential care.
• Education and Early Intervention – Ensuring children and young people with disabilities receive inclusive education and early support services to enhance their opportunities.
• Workforce Development and Disability-Inclusive Employment – Supporting job opportunities for people with disabilities through training, workplace accommodations, and inclusive hiring policies.
• Digital and Technological Accessibility – Leveraging assistive technology, AI, and digital solutions to enhance accessibility and improve service delivery.

Special consideration is given to initiatives that:

• Adopt an innovative approach to improving accessibility and disability inclusion in social services.
• Empower individuals with disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard in service design, delivery and assessment.
• Demonstrate measurable impact, showing how services have improved the quality of life, autonomy, and inclusion of people with disabilities.
• Promote cross-sector collaboration, integrating disability-inclusive policies across social care, health, education, and employment sectors.
• Are scalable and transferable, offering models that can inspire similar policies and practices across Europe.