Let’s make it better! Good practices in local government efforts to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities
Let’s make it better! Good practices in local government efforts to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities

Summary/Abstract: Objectives:Meeting the basic needs of people with disabilities is a vital component of inclusive local social policy. The aim of this article is to analyze how local governments can use a local diagnosis of the needs of people with disabilities to design and implement measures that increase the accessibility of public services, autonomy, and quality of life for this group of residents. Good practices in this area are illustrated using the example of initiatives undertaken in Słupsk, a city in northern Poland.Material and methods:A total of 158 participants took part, including people with disabilities, their caregivers, and professionals working in the support sector. The survey examined eleven areas of life, including healthcare, education, employment, housing, and autonomy.Results:The study found that most areas did not fully meet the needs of residents with disabilities. Based on these results, recommendations were submitted to local authorities. A follow-up analysis six months later showed that some recommended measures had been implemented, others were underway, and further actions were planned by 2030. These initiatives are discussed as examples of efforts to develop a more inclusive local policy.Conclusions:The study demonstrated significant gaps in meeting the needs of people with disabilities across key areas of daily functioning. However, the implementation of several recommendations by local authorities shows that evidence-based research can effectively shape inclusive municipal policy. The example of Słupsk illustrates how systematic evaluation and collaboration with stakeholders can contribute to the development of targeted initiatives that improve accessibility, autonomy, and overall quality of life for residents with disabilities.

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