Social Policy and People with Intellectual Disabilities in Poland

Abstract

The past decade has been a time of great political, social and economic change within Poland. Such changes have affected the lives of all citizens including those with an intellectual disability. However, within the English language literature there is little published concerning the impact of changes in social policy on this group of people and the extent to which their quality of life has been enhanced. This article thus considers the difficult relationship between quality of life and social policy, provides an overview of key policy developments within Poland (both general and disability specific), and outlines some ways in which they have impacted on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. It is suggested that further research is required before clear conclusions can be drawn. Areas for service development and research are thus proposed.

Social integration of adults with intellectual disabilities in Georgia: Lessons from Poland and the USA

“…At the same time a high level of decentralization within state bodies encourages the flexible financing of different social programs and service providers. New levels of local administration -provincial and regional -were created, with responsibility for the provision of rehabilitation and social services, and they make an important contribution to the development of different social services for people with intellectual disabilities (Otrebski et al, 2003).…”

“…Poland has implemented numerous changes in the welfare system for people with intellectual disabilities (Otrebski et al, 2003). These reforms were based on changes in the financial investment system and in legislation.…”