Poots launches new Northern Ireland Physical and Sensory Disability Strategy and Action Plan

A new strategy and action plan aimed at delivering improved outcomes, services and support for people who have a physical, sensory or communication disability has been launched by Health Minister Edwin Poots.
~ Wednesday, 22 February 2012

Speaking at the launch, the Minister said: “This Strategy and Action Plan sets out a framework for the development of services to people with physical or sensory disabilities in Northern Ireland for the next three years.”

“I believe that it represents an important opportunity for all of us, working together, to improve the way services and support for disabled people, both adults and children, are planned and delivered.”

Mr Poots was at the Island Civic Centre in Lisburn, where The Cedar Foundation was holding a “Celebrating Achievement” event, marking 70 years of providing services for people with disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.

Stephen Mathews, Chief Executive of The Cedar Foundation, said: “We are delighted that our Service Users have been involved in the consultation process for this Strategy and we welcome its launch at our Celebrating Achievement event.”

“This forward looking Strategy will support the modernisation of services for people with disabilities. It will ensure there is a focus on partnership and community inclusion to deliver more effective person-centred services.”

The Minister concluded: "This Strategy recognises the pivotal place that families and carers have in improving life opportunities and in supporting those with a disability to live as independently as is possible.

“I believe that we can build on the good work that is already being done across Northern Ireland by the statutory and voluntary sectors and deliver further improvements in services for disabled people in our communities.”

The document is available on the DHSSPS website

Notes to editors:

1. The Minister for Health commissioned the Department to develop a Physical and Sensory Disability Strategy for NI.

2. A Disability Strategy Project Team was established in December 2009 and formally began work in January 2010.

3. The Strategy sets out the strategic direction for the further development of services and support for disabled people over the next three years (2012 – 2015) and the Action Plan contains the key actions with associated timescales for the delivery of these services and support.

4. Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 02890 520505, or out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.