Cavan Disability Network

O’Herlihy Access Consultancy (OHAC) collaborated with the Cavan Disability Network in conjunction with Cavan County Local Development  to deliver ‘Train the Trainer’ disability equality training for network volunteers. The aim of the course was to allow volunteers to be able to meet with the private, public and voluntary sector within Cavan and surrounding counties to promote the importance of accessibility and Universal Design. Volunteers included people with disabilities and those with lived experience of disability This initiative also aimed to raise awareness, educate members on disability-related issues, and equip them with the skills necessary to promote inclusivity and accessibility within their community.

Purpose

The training programme aimed to:

• Enhance Understanding of Disability Educate participants on the current context and models of disability, including social and medical models.
• Legislative Knowledge Summarise relevant disability equality legislation to inform members of their rights and responsibilities.
• Etiquette and Language Foster an awareness of appropriate language and behaviour when interacting with people with disabilities.
• Overcoming Barriers Develop practical skills to identify and overcome barriers to accessibility, ensuring inclusion for all individuals, regardless of ability.

The training incorporated the following components

The Disability and Equality Context

• Understanding Disability Sessions covered the historical and social contexts of disability, the shift from the medical to the social model, and the importance of Universal Design.
• Legislation Overview Detailed explanations of key legislative frameworks such as the Disability Act 2005, Equal Status Act 2000-2015, and Building Control Act 1990/2007, highlighting their impact on accessibility and inclusion.

Interactive Exercises

• Group Planning for Accessibility Participants engaged in exercises to develop accessibility checklists for different public services like cinemas, restaurants, and retail stores. This helped them think critically about diverse accessibility needs.
• Barriers Identification Through discussions and practical exercises, participants identified common barriers faced by people with disabilities in various environments, including public transport, education, and public buildings.

Etiquette and Communication

• Positive Language Use Training emphasised the importance of using respectful and inclusive language, avoiding terms that may be considered outdated or offensive.
• Effective Communication Strategies Tips and best practices for communicating with individuals with different types of disabilities were provided, ensuring that interactions are respectful and supportive.

Impact

The training had a significant impact on the participants and on the wider community in several ways:

• Increased Awareness Participants reported a heightened awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and the importance of creating accessible environments.
• Practical Skills Members of the Cavan Disability Network gained practical skills to advocate for and implement accessibility improvements in their community.
• Policy Influence The knowledge acquired enabled the network to better engage with local policymakers and influence the development and implementation of inclusive policies and practices.

The collaboration between Cavan Disability Network and OHAC exemplifies the power of education and training in promoting disability equality within the community. By equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills, the training fostered a more inclusive community, ensuring that accessibility and equality are at the forefront of local development efforts.