PHA launches virtual Disability Week NI programme
The PHA is aiming to raise awareness of ‘hidden disabilities’ by developing an online programme of activity to celebrate Disability Awareness Week NI from Monday 30th November to Friday 4th December 2020.
The event has an international line up of speakers, hailing from India to Oregon. Their key aim is to break down barriers to access and inclusion and raise awareness of the needs of people with a disability. In partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council, the event will be the fifth annual celebration of the week, ahead of International Day for People with Disabilities on Thursday 3rd December.
Fiona Teague, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement for the Western Area in the PHA, said: “This is the first virtual Disability Week NI programme. It will engage and showcase the excellent work happening not only locally but across the world, and we hope to learn more about how we can continue to improve this locally.
"Whilst we are not able to bring people together this year to celebrate this organised programme of events is a welcome opportunity to remain connected at this time, and learn more about how we can all contribute to making services, programmes and our physical environment more inclusive and accessible for people with a disability.
“It is vital that we continue to promote health and wellbeing for everyone through this challenging time.
"I would encourage everyone to access the programme and get involved in the events that can be accessed online from the safety of your home, there really is something for everyone."
Access and Inclusion Officer at Derry City and Strabane District Council, Louise Boyce, thanked all the partners who are also supporting the development and delivery of the programme.
"The restrictions and public health advice to reduce the spread of COVID-19 have created many challenges in developing an online programme that people can access remotely, but it has equally created an opportunity to reach out to a much larger audience,” she said.
"I would like to thank all the venues, businesses, initiatives and artists for their support in developing the innovative and varied online programme that can be accessed worldwide through the internet.
"While many of our cultural venues are currently closed, work continues to improve their access and inclusion provisions and to develop arts projects that support our pan-disability community, their families and carers."
For further information on Disability Awareness Week visit derrystrabane.com/disabilityweekNI.