On October 30, In a world that is rapidly advancing, it is essential that our cities and communities adapt to be inclusive, accessible, and equitable. So, on Day 1 of Week 3, our team, along with Mr. Rafael Hernández Arnaiz and Mr. Pablo, a PhD student at UPCT who offered to be our translator for the day, left for Murcia to meet with the team of FAMDIF/COCEMFE-MURCIA. There, we met with:

• A duo of social workers Ms. Aguada and Ms. Clara at the main office of FAMDIF
• Manuel Garcia, the FAMDIF Architecture Head of Accessibility
• The team of the FAMDIF Social Centre for Disability (Centro de Dia)
• The team at FAMDIF’s Servicio de Integración Laboral (SIL)

FAMDIF/COCEMFE-MURCIA: A Journey of Inclusion

• Origin: The journey of FAMDIF, short for Federación de Asociaciones Murcianas de Personas con Discapacidad Física y Orgánica, or the Federation of Murcian Associations of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities, began in 1982, marking the first step towards creating a more inclusive society.
• 20 Centres for Inclusivity: Today, they boast an impressive network of 20 centres, all dedicated to supporting individuals with various disabilities.
• From Physical to Cognitive Disabilities: FAMDIF/COCEMFE-MURCIA goes beyond physical disabilities, encompassing those with cognitive concerns, creating a truly inclusive space for all.
• Fighting for Human Rights: In the 1980s, the organisation actively engaged in human rights advocacy, setting a precedent for inclusive policy-making.
• Collaborating with All Levels of Government: The organisation collaborates with governments at every level, from national to regional to local, ensuring that the opinions and needs of individuals with special requirements are considered in policy-making.
• Challenges to Be Overcome: Despite the laws in place, the city of Murcia still faces the challenge of enforcing inclusivity effectively.
• Eliminating Architectural Barriers: One of the core missions of FAMDIF/COCEMFE-MURCIA is to remove architectural barriers that hinder access and mobility for individuals with special needs.
• Education as the Key: Their focus on education, starting at an early age, creates awareness and promotes inclusivity from the very beginning.

Discussion with Accessibility Architect, Mr. Manuel Garcia

Advocating for Change: Mr. Manuel Garcia actively advises local governments on accessibility through round-table discussions, ensuring changes are incorporated into policy-making.

Minimum Requirements in New Buildings: In Spain, each level of government has its own accessibility and inclusivity regulations, leading to the application of minimum accessibility standards in new construction.

Universal Design: Mr. Garcia emphasises that all restrooms have features for people with various functional diversities.

Revamping Old Buildings: Existing structures are being retrofitted for accessibility, promoting inclusivity in every setting.

Following the United Nations Guidelines: The organisation adheres to the guidelines set by the United Nations for people with disabilities.

Bright and Accessible: Features such as high-contrast colours and QR codes provide accessibility for those with visual limitations.

Creating Accessible Heritage: Efforts are being made to make historical sites accessible through tactile setups and digital tools.

Social Centre for Disability: A Lifeline for Many

Ages Know No Bounds: The Social Centre for Disability serves as a sanctuary for individuals with diverse needs, transcending the boundaries of age. The centre extends its support to individuals with an average age of 35, recognising that the desire for autonomy and employability remains relevant across all stages of life. Regardless of age, the centre becomes a haven where individuals rediscover their potential through a range of activities.

A Multidisciplinary Approach: The centre’s commitment to holistic well-being is evident in its multidisciplinary approach. Collaborating with a diverse team of professionals, including psychologists, physiotherapists, and nurses, the centre addresses the varied needs of its patrons. By intertwining physical and mental health support, the centre ensures that individuals receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique requirements.

Integration and Rehabilitation: Beyond conventional medical interventions, the centre champions integration and rehabilitation. Recognising the importance of social connection, the centre orchestrates group activities that foster social bonds and personal growth. Through these communal endeavours, individuals not only regain physical strength but also find solace in the camaraderie of their peers.

Transportation and Rehabilitation: Understanding that access to care is paramount, the centre goes the extra mile by providing transportation services for its patrons. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that individuals, regardless of their mobility, can readily access the support and rehabilitation services they require. By eliminating transportation barriers, the centre contributes to a more equitable and accessible support system.

Servicio de Integración Laboral (SIL), FAMDIF: Bridging the Gap

Support Beyond Disabilities: In the pursuit of fostering independence and meaningful engagement for individuals acquiring disabilities later in life, the Servicio de Integración Laboral (SIL) stands as a beacon of support. Going beyond the limitations posed by disabilities, SIL focuses on vocational training, job integration, and overall employability. The organisation recognises that the journey to employment is a transformative process that extends far beyond physical abilities.

Empowering Entrepreneurship: SIL’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities transcends traditional employment avenues. By offering assistance in crafting business plans and providing microcredits, SIL actively promotes entrepreneurship. This innovative approach not only enhances economic independence but also fosters a sense of self-efficacy among individuals who might otherwise face barriers in the traditional job market.

Customised Employment Profiles: Understanding the diverse talents and capabilities of individuals with disabilities, SIL adopts a personalised approach to employment. Through tailored labour insertion itineraries, the organisation navigates the intricate landscape of abilities and preferences, ensuring that each person finds a job that aligns with their unique skills. This customisation not only enhances job satisfaction but also contributes to a more inclusive workforce.

Overcoming Employment Disparities: A core focus of SIL’s work is dismantling the disparities that individuals with disabilities often face in the job market. By addressing and combating the existing pay gap, SIL strives to level the playing field and create equal opportunities for employment. Through advocacy and dedicated efforts, the organisation seeks to reshape perceptions surrounding disabilities in the workplace, fostering an environment where everyone is valued for their contributions.