27/4/2009 - Centre for Independent Living opens in Cumbria

A new centre to help disabled and older people in Cumbria live independently has been officially opened today (Monday 27 April 2009).

Councillor Stewart Young, Leader of Cumbria County Council, unveiled a plaque to open the Cumbria Centre for Independent Living (CIL) - based at Port Road Business Park in Carlisle.

Run by disabled people for disabled people, the centre is supported by Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Disability Network and Disability Association Carlisle and Eden. Also involved in the countywide development of the CIL are Allerale Disability Association, Copeland Disability Forum and Barrow Disability Association. 

CILs are a national initiative, with a plan for every local authority to have a user-led centre up and running by 2010. The new Carlisle centre is Cumbria's first. 

There are plans in place to deliver a countywide user-led service for disabled people in Cumbria. As part of this drive, the range of services available at locations across the county will be broadened over the coming year.

Existing examples of how services have already developed so that they're driven by the individuals receiving them include:

- Direct Payments Advice

- Employment support and training

- An IT recycling project (previously C2 Enterprises)

- Debt advice

It is also planned to add other services including advocacy, co-ordinators for independent living, and an occupational therapy equipment store and assessment service over the next few months.

Councillor Young said:

"This centre is a fantastic example of how different organisations can work together to eliminate barriers and give disabled and older people the support they need to live independently. It marks an important benchmark in the ongoing programme to deliver a county-wide service led and delivered by disabled and older people in Cumbria. After all, the people who know best what support they need to live life as they wish are the people receiving the services."

Fred Wilenius, Chief Officer of the Disability Association Carlisle & Eden, said:

"Centres like this are the key to independent living for those who need support to remain active and valued members of their communities. The advice and support of professionals and others who have direct personal experience of living with disability or other support needs is invaluable in maintaining independence, choice and control. The ongoing drive for self-directed support in Cumbria has the potential to have a huge positive impact on individuals’ lives." 

Disability Association Carlisle and Eden (DaCE) has commissioned research to assist with future development of services across Cumbria, with the aim to find out from people themselves what kind of services and support they feel are needed and the best way to provide those services, to ensure they are fully accessible and appropriate to their needs.

Anyone wishing to take part in this research should phone DaCE on 01228 674882 or email CILresearch@aol.com.

For more information about the Cumbria Centre for Independent Living, please contact Fred Wilenius on 01228 672398.

ENDS

Media enquiries to Gareth Cosslett, News Manager on 01228 226332