Meaningful employment of young adults with intellectual disabilities in Latvia
2017
Broka, A., Vidzeme Univ. of Applied Sciences, Valmiera (Latvia). Inst. of Social, Economic and Humanities Research | Mihailova, H., Vidzeme Univ. of Applied Sciences, Valmiera (Latvia). Inst. of Social, Economic and Humanities Research | Demme-Vimba, D., Vidzeme Univ. of Applied Sciences, Valmiera (Latvia). Inst. of Social, Economic and Humanities Research
Employment is a right of citizenship and one of quality of life determinants remaining low among the persons with disabilities, especially those with intellectual disabilities (ID). Initiated Deinstitutionalization (DI) process encourages for an open discussion whether there is a need for more radical change in shift from the individual or medical (more institutionalized) model towards the social model of disability in Latvia (DI action plan 2015−2020). Development and initiation of alternative social services goes in line with recognition and usefulness of social model of disability but lacks legal and even political voice in the process of its implementation. The aim is to assess the availability of meaningful employment opportunities for persons with ID in realm of DI action plan. It is an attempt to raise attention about the need for the social disability model signifying the practices for development of applicable comprehensive services for persons with ID in Latvia. Literature studies (research analysis on the topic) as well as empirical evidence (conducted in 2014−2016 from primary sources: in-depth interviews, life-stories, focus-group interviews with involved parties in DI process in Latvia, case study of Vidzeme region) raise a serious concern and demonstrate inconsistency in policy planning and its actions. Finally, preconditions for employment opportunities are discussed.
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