This concept has different meanings in the various European countries. For this project however we have set some criteria for community-based settings. This to identify those settings which this project deals with.

In general community-based settings are small-scaled settings for people with disabilities. They are alternative residential housing facilities that replace the larger residential settings where people with disabilities used to live.

In literature and research on de-institutionalisation the use of community based settings is associated with various benefits for the quality of life for people with disabilities. (LINDSAY, W.R.,2002):

• more homely and better material environments;
• increase in assessed adaptive behaviour upon resettlement;
• more extensive participation in activities of daily living;
• greater involvement in activities in the community.

To avoid confusion on this concept we set out some guidelines to identify a community-based setting:

MUST BE:

• People living in at home with their families or in a setting integrated in the local community.
• Less than 8 persons together or one family in a house
• The house is located in a town, city or village.
• The client enjoys significant autonomy in relation to support in daily activities.
• A service where residents are supported to interact with the community.

CAN NOT BE:

• Segregated and separated from services and houses for other people.
• A mini – institution.
• Approach determined by the needs of an institution or a group of professionals without involvement of the client.
• Only limited to one aspect of support, must be holistic addressing social issues, as well as employment, education and other needs.

We were also inspired by following definitions:
Definition of Thomas (1990)
“A system which envisages using existing resources within the community to promote inclusion”.

Definition of UNDP (1993)
“Community based rehabilitation is a strategy for improving service delivery for providing more equitable opportunities and for promoting the human rights of disabled people”.

To have a look at the different descriptions of community based settings in the European countries that were available in this project. Click here (under 'categories', select 'definition of a community-based setting'.)

Back