no inclusion

inclusion

When I was born, the doctors told my parents that I would never be able to speak or move my arms and legs in a relatively coordinated manner.

I attended a school for people with disabilities. Half of my school friends died during my school years due to their disabilities. Those were terrible experiences.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities stipulates that schools should strive to be inclusive. This was decided at a UNESCO World Conference in 1994.

I obtained a school leaving certificate. Nevertheless, they wanted me to work in a workshop for disabled people (WfB). But I didn't want to.

It is important to judge people according to their individual abilities. I am “only” physically disabled. What is wrong with having a job in the primary labor market with the appropriate conditions (e.g., assistance)?

Should I work in a workshop for people with disabilities (WfB)?

No! I got a job as an office clerk at an outpatient care and social services provider. Thanks to the work assistance program, I was assigned my own assistants who helped me with my work. My workplace was also made barrier-free in line with my disability. My employer received financial support for this.

I was still living with my parents. But I wanted to become independent.

My job gave me the opportunity to gain a foothold in a “normal” environment. With the help of personal assistance, I was able to build a life for myself within my own four walls. Thanks to aids and barrier-free facilities, I can move around relatively independently.

I was also able to build up my social circle with the help of personal assistance. I wanted to encourage other people with disabilities to become active too. So I founded a diving club where people can socialize and even do something for their physical health.