A SPECIAL course aimed at creating a better life for parents of disabled children and disabled adults is being run in Devon this year ? and organisers want to hear from people in West Devon who feel they may benefit.
Partners in Policymaking is a leadership programme which was developed in America more than 15 years ago ? now the Circles Network in Britain has been licensed to run the programme in Britain.
Course facilitator Klaas Overzee said: ?The programme provides partners with the opportunity to learn from their own experience, hear from some of the best practitioners and teachers in the UK and around the world and develop personal skills to work for change.
?Partners gain in knowledge and skill to improve the services currently on offer to them and others.?
Klaas said the programme will be run at a venue fully accessible to the disabled. However, until he knows what the demand will be for the course, he cannot say where it will be held.
The course is absolutely free and provides more than 128 hours of instruction, spaced over eight two-day sessions, once a month for eight months.
Refreshments and meals will be provided, plus accommodation, help with childcare and transport costs if necessary.
The sessions will take place on a Friday and Saturday, starting on February 28.
The course will cover the history of services to disabled people, communication, inclusive education, life planning, policies and decisions, employment and supported living, advice on health and technology and opportunities for change.
The course is funded by the Learning Council of Devon and Cornwall and Devon County Council ? because the course is free, those who attend are asked to commit themselves to all sessions and complete homework assignments.
The maximum number of people accepted for the course is twenty-five.
Anyone who would like more information about this exciting opportunity should call Klaas Overzee on 01647 441231 or e-mail: [email protected]">[email protected]