ENIL – European Network on Independent Living
Entity which complete it
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Where it takes place
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Type of disability
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Why is it a good practice of the Person-Centered Model?
ENIL is based on the Person Centered Model because it embodies the key principles of this approach by prioritizing the autonomy, rights, and individual needs of people with disabilities. The network aligns with this model by: (1) placing individuals’ choices and autonomy above institutional frameworks; (2) advocating for systems and policies that support flexibility and personalized care; (3) providing platforms for individuals to speak, advocate, and lead in decisions affecting their lives and (4) becoming an example of rights-based and people-centered advocacy.
Integrated Assessment (Person, Family, Housing) and Life History
ENIL uses evaluations as an essential part of its work to monitor the impact of its initiatives and to promote continuous improvement in the implementation of the rights of persons with disabilities. Examples include: independent living surveys, monitoring the implementation of the CRPD or impact assessments of its initiatives.
Personalised Care and Support Plan for the Life Project
The project focuses on enabling individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in society. These features are reflected in: (1) deinstitutionalization, the plan actively supports transitioning from institutional care to living within the community; (2) personal assistance, central to the plan is ensuring access to personal assistance services, which are flexible, individually tailored, and controlled by the person receiving the assistance; (3) choice and control, every aspect of the plan emphasizes the individual’s autonomy in making decisions about their life; (4) advocacy and empowerment, individuals are supported to assert their rights and navigate systems that may present barriers; and (5), assistive technologies.
Support groups
ENIL actively encourages and supports peer support groups and networks as part of its mission to promote independent living for people with disabilities. These support groups are essential to the project, as they provide a platform for people to share experiences, support each other, and collectively advocate for their rights.
Case Management and Resource Coordinator
ENIL itself operates as a network advocating for independent living rights, these roles are often implemented through local or affiliated organizations following ENIL’s principles.
Highlined results
ENIL has achieved significant milestones in promoting the rights and independence of disabled individuals across Europe. Here are some of their highlighted accomplishments: (1) advocacy and policy influence, as guidance on independent living and European Parliament engagement; (2) capacity building and community engagement, as Freedom Drive events and youth network development; (3) campaigns and awareness raising, through European Independent Living Day or Anniversary of the Independent Living Movement and (4) strategic planning and future directions, through the Strategic Plan 2026-2029.
Inspiring ideas for other enviorments. It can works! 😉
ENIL can inspire other organisations with key practices that focus on the autonomy and rights of people with disabilities. It emphasises a person-centred approach, promoting self-determination through personal assistance, peer support networks and personalised plans that respect individual preferences. ENIL also promotes deinstitutionalisation, encouraging the transition to inclusive community settings, and uses the framework of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) to ensure that its initiatives promote equality and dignity. It also strengthens leadership training for young people and organises events such as the Freedom Drive and the European Day of Independent Living, raising awareness and social activism.
Other observations
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Evidence and indicators
Research papers and reports and factsheets