The 12 Pillars of Independent Living

The 12 Pillars of Independent Living

To further clarify what Independent Living means in practice, the disabled people’s movement has identified a range of issues that need to be worked on and improved to make Independent Living a reality.

These “12 Pillars of Independent Living” are:

·             appropriate and accessible information

·             an adequate income

·             appropriate and accessible health and social care provision

·             a fully accessible transport system

·             full access to the environment

·             adequate provision of technical aids and equipment

·             availability of accessible and adapted housing

·             adequate provision of personal assistance

·             availability of inclusive education and training

·             equal opportunities for employment

·             availability of independent advocacy and self-advocacy

·             availability of peer counseling

Under each of the 12 Pillars (plus digital inclusion) there are a wide range of practical solutions to facilitate Independent Living, disability equality and social inclusion. However, we need to organise and work for political change if these goals are to be achieved.