A wide range of events were hosted across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area last week to celebrate the seventh annual Disability Awareness Week .
With funding from the Public Health Agency and in partnership with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, the events showcased and recognised the Council area’s commitment to access and inclusion through the arts and raised awareness of the needs of those with disabilities.
The programme included performances, videos and information sessions to raise awareness of the importance of creating the conditions where people with disabilities experience equal opportunity and face no barriers to participation.
The aim of this week of celebration is to join together to support people with disability in our communities to promote health and social wellbeing through the arts.
Catriona Doherty, Access and Inclusion Officer at DCSDC, said the organisers were delighted with the public’s response to the programme.
“Arts and culture activity have a wide range of health benefits for people with disabilities and these events were an ideal way to discuss and maximise those within our Council area,” she said.
“The programme raised awareness of the importance of creating the conditions where people with disabilities experience equal opportunity and face no barriers to participation in any element of their lives.
“Council, through our commitments set out in the Strategic Growth Plan and our Disability Scheme and Action Plan, is committed to working to promote positive attitudes and to encourage participation by disabled people in public life and across our communities by creating accessible and user friendly environments for everyone to enjoy.
“Sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to and participated in our programme this year, your support is appreciated,” she added.
Highlights of Disability Week included the Northwest Spectrum Group Creative Christmas Showcase, an Art Masterclass with Art by Tori at the VOID Art Gallery, a Stage Beyond performance of the Great Dictator on the steps of the Guildhall and the Foyle Deaf Association Choir giving a signed performance at the Millennium Forum.
Other events of note were the Tuned In Album Launch at the Nerve Centre and the Destined launch of the Christmas Grotto at the Foyle Valley Railway.
Training and information sessions from Mencap, Guide Dogs NI and RNID were also well attended.
For more information on Access & Inclusion Project please visit: www.derrystrabane/inclusion
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