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Description
The main aim of the project is strengthening of the advocacy capacity of the network of disabled people organisations – Tallinn City Forum of Disabled People whose main aim is to stand for rights of disabled people and to be a strong partner for the local government in the field of disability politics. Strong and well-functioning network will be better able to formulate joint proposals to improve the quality of living of disabled people and their families in Tallinn City, make local government better consider the needs of disabled people in designing services and in urban planning.
Summary of project results
The purpose of the project was to strengthen the network of organizations representing people with disabilities—specifically the activities of the Tallinn Forum of People with Disabilities. The forum''s goal is to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities, act as an effective influencer, and serve as a strong partner to local governments.
The project aimed to develop a functional and effective network capable of creating joint action plans to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and their family members. Another key objective was to enhance the collaboration network, ensuring it becomes a more effective partner for local governments. This would encourage local authorities to better consider the needs of people with disabilities when planning public services and support measures, as well as in designing the urban environment.
The project involved several key activities aimed at strengthening the network of people with disabilities'' representatives and fostering cooperation with local authorities. One of the main activities was the regular meetings of the Forum of People with Disabilities, which attracted new representatives interested in continuing this form of collaboration. Additionally, a training day for local government specialists was organized, raising awareness about the potential for mutual cooperation between the Forum and the authorities.
A significant outcome of the project was a meeting with the Social and Health Committee of the Tallinn City Council, which led to the first inclusive discussions and debates on issues affecting people with disabilities. Lastly, the organization of the Tallinn Disability Committee’s work took into account several proposals made in a petition letter, improving the committee''s approach to inclusivity and ensuring that the needs of people with disabilities were better considered.
The Forum of People with Disabilities has proven to be an effective platform for gathering valuable input, and this will continue with meetings planned three to four times a year. These meetings provide an opportunity to directly share important information and suggestions collected from the target group at the city level. The participation of representatives from new organizations for people with disabilities in the discussions and informational seminars of the Forum contributes to the organization’s sustainability and enhances its operational capacity.
Thanks to the meetings initiated through the project at the Tallinn City Council and the Disability Committee, there has been increased consideration of the interests of people with disabilities and their advocacy organizations. This shift is likely to foster the broader development of civil society, as the needs and perspectives of people with disabilities and their representatives are increasingly taken into account in society.