cbr

Over the decades, CBR workers have developed closer associations with their communities and became increasingly aware of the reality of life experiences of people with disabilities. They became aware that, although people with disability live within families or communities of some kind, their life experiences vary enormously and the strategies used to support them need to reflect these differences. They began to include people with disabilities in their work force, to listen and understand more about the need to address the social and political aspects of disability. This fostered a process whereby CBR changed from using a primarily medical approach to one that also addressed social and rights issues. UN agencies sought to clarify what CBR is all about and made this clear in a joint position statement. In this position statement, they emphasize the need for equalization of opportunities, poverty reduction and social inclusion. At the same time, they promote the involvement of people with disability and their families, policy makers, planners and professionals in the planning and implementation of community action.