Personal Stories

Life is better when we live in inclusive and diverse communities.

Source: Inclusion Ireland, 19 Stories of inclusion.

Margaret’s story shares the journey of 68 year old women who moves into her own home after a life time spent in residential and institutionalised settings.

Margaret speaks about the importance of planning and developing her skill set.

Having a choice, control and freedom in her life are also important.

Margaret’s story shows the power of communities, employment and sharing interests and hobbies with others. She also speaks to the importance of being respected.

 

Manifesto Point 2:

Strong personal relationships, connections and networks give us a sense of belonging and safety.

Source: Inclusion Ireland, 19 Stories of inclusion.

John’s Story follows his move into a home of his own after spending a life time in institutionalised care since the age of 13.

His story is a clear message about the importance of being able to share our gifts and talents within our chosen community.

It also shows us the positive impact being seen and respected by our community can have on us.

John’s story highlights how our lives can change for the better with the right supports.

 

Manifesto Point 3:

Our lives are better when we focus on each other’s strengths, abilities, interests and gifts.

Source: Clan Beo, Moving Home Movies.

Maitius’ story shares with us his journey of moving from a small town to Galway city to enable him to follow his dream and attend the Blue Tea Pot theatre company.

His story is shared by himself and his parents. It offers really useful and practical information by breaking down each stage of his journey.

 

Manifesto Point 4:

We live better lives when we have the power and control to make our own decisions.

Source: Inclusion Ireland, 19 Stories of Inclusion.

Orla & Brendan’s share their journey from their first meeting to moving in together to saving for their wedding.

This married couple also show us how they live together, speak about the importance of the right support, the need for families to believe in their loved one and what is possible for them.

Both Orla and Brendan are passionate about equal rights for all, the power of advocacy, sharing their story to enable others to find their voice and speak up.

 

Manifesto Point 5:

Our lives are better when we can access and direct supports to match the vision of our lives.

Source: Genio.

Catherine’s story follows her returning journey home to Clara after spending 27 years within a residential setting.

It shows the positive physical and emotional change within Catherine within 10 weeks and then after a year.

The clip shows the steps that enabled Catherine to move into her own home and to reconnect with her family.

It captures the development of her community roles, the deepening of her relationship with her family and their emotional journey.

The clip highlights the importance of planning and the level of detail given to every aspect of support. It also shares the honest reflection from staff and her family. It offers clear examples around the importance of freedom, choice and control.

 

Manifesto Point 6:

We believe significant change in thinking, policies and practices is necessary to support our human rights, equality and a better life for all.

Source: Open Future Learning.

A Day in the Life, shows the many stereotypes that people with disabilities face on a daily basis.

It uses role-play in a humorous way to highlight the misguided perceptions of others.