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Description
In Estonian society, there has been a gradual enhancement in the recognition of the significance of physical accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, as of the present, only limited strides have been taken to establish accessibility and equitable opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities. The primary objective of the project is to cultivate conditions conducive to the active and inclusive participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities, thereby contributing to an improved quality of life. Within the project framework, an extensive survey will be conducted among institutions providing public and other services, evaluating their accessibility through the implementation of an easy-to-read style—a deliberate simplification of language intended to enhance information accessibility, particularly for individuals with diverse disabilities.
Active involvement of individuals with intellectual disabilities will be encouraged in conducting the survey, empowering them to play an integral role in shaping their living environment. The project''s initiatives aim to foster a heightened understanding of public services and the rights associated with their utilization among intellectually impaired individuals. Furthermore, the project endeavors to promote a better comprehension of the necessity for easy-to-read materials among personnel at service-providing institutions, particularly those who routinely engage with this target demographic. Such institutions encompass libraries, retail establishments, medical facilities, local governments, sports clubs, and other establishments frequented by the general public.
The execution of the survey will be conducted in collaboration with the project partner, Tartu Maarja Support Centre, while the Icelandic organization Landssamtökin Þroskahjálp will contribute valuable insights based on their experience in safeguarding the rights of disabled individuals.
Summary of project results
The aim of the project is to create conditions for people with intellectual disabilities to lead a more active and inclusive life. Individuals with intellectual disabilities, along with other target groups, can better understand their surroundings when they are provided with information that is accessible and easy to comprehend. Engaging in hands-on activities fosters a positive cycle of change, leading not only to direct impacts but also to indirect benefits, such as improving attitudes and increasing engagement.
The project aims to survey public service providers and map accessibility using a questionnaire written in simple language. People with intellectual disabilities through participation in the survey contribute to shaping their living environment, while service providers and officials gain a deeper understanding of accessibility issues and work to improve them.
A survey was conducted in public service institutions to assess accessibility. Before implementing the study, the Estonian Association for the Support of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (EVPIT) prepared materials in easy-to-read Estonian about the obligations of public institutions, as well as survey materials, which were then distributed to Estonian partner organizations. The survey process required multiple rounds of guidance for support persons and organizations to ensure smooth execution.
Training sessions were provided for Estonian partners on the content of the survey materials and the public sector obligations brochure, as well as on how to prepare for institutional visits and conduct surveys together with individuals with intellectual disabilities. The project partners included MTÜ EIT Tugiliisu in Tallinn, Saare County Association for the Support of People with Disabilities, Tartu Maarja Support Center, and Viljandi Association for the Support of People with Intellectual Disabilities.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the project''s implementation, causing public institutions to close, disrupting organizational work, and creating fear among participants. In 2020, movement restrictions were in place, while in 2021, conflicts arose regarding vaccinations. Due to the pandemic, one participating organization withdrew from the project, and approximately one-third of the expected participants from Tallinn were unable to take part.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and the organizational limitations, the project successfully achieved approximately two-thirds of its numerical targets. From a broader perspective, the project''s societal objectives—including experience-sharing, community engagement, raising awareness, and activating the target group—were successfully met in full.
The project had two primary impacts on the core target group: increased engagement and improved accessibility.
The project encouraged individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate more actively in society, utilize services more effectively, and reflect on their role in shaping their environment. Discussions emerged on how to improve daily life for people with intellectual disabilities and what steps they themselves could take to secure their rights and access to services.
In smaller institutions and places where simple measures can enhance accessibility, improvements are expected to occur spontaneously as a result of increased staff awareness. For example, institutions can install easy-to-read signage or other essential visual aids based on the project’s recommendations, requiring only awareness of the need and a willingness to act. At a broader level, it is expected that at one point the awareness of policy makers at local and national level increases, resulting in recognition of the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Beyond the primary target group, the project also benefits other populations, including non-native Estonian speakers, older adults, and individuals who struggle with complex language use. Clear and accessible information improves service usability for these groups as well.
Additionally, the project strengthened the operational capacity of participating organizations. New partnerships were established, and collaboration between organizations intensified. Increased daily communication helped organizations better understand each other''s capabilities, interests, and specific needs related to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Summary of bilateral results
The partnership with the Icelandic organization Landssamtökin Þroskahjálp yielded valuable exchanges of expertise and best practices. As an advocate for human rights and a supporter of individuals with disabilities, the Icelandic organization collaborates with the Ministry of Social Affairs to translate laws into simple language, ensuring greater accessibility.Through the partnership, both organizations shared their working methods and learned new approaches to improving accessibility and inclusion. The collaboration fostered a strong professional connection, which continues beyond the project’s formal timeframe. Ongoing discussions focus on potential future cooperation and the adaptation of successful Icelandic methods into the local context.Additionally, the Icelandic partners expressed particular interest in the digital solutions used in daily operations, exploring ways to implement similar tools within their own work. This exchange of knowledge has laid the foundation for further collaboration and innovation in accessibility and disability advocacy.