Centre for Independent Living in Lambeth
Centres for Independent Living (CILs) aim to support and empower disabled people to be equal citizens with independence, choice, control, rights and full participation in economic, social and cultural life. They use the 'social model of disability' to identify disabling attitudes and barriers, and to strive to remove them.
CILs already exist in other areas of the country. They are voluntary organisations that are developed, managed and controlled by disabled people.
The CIL model complements the vision of a cooperative council where the local community becomes actively involved in planning, developing and delivering the services they want to see provided.
Here in Lambeth consultation on establishing a local CIL began at the end of 2010 and continued until April 2011. This exercise clearly demonstrated that local people wanted a CIL in Lambeth that would be open to people of all ages and all impairments, as well as carers and allies of disabled people.
One Stop Shop for disabled people
The first service to be provided by the CIL will be the One Stop Shop for disabled people at 336 Brixton Road, SW9 7AA. Starting in March 2012, this aims to provide:
- Information, initial advice and signposting to deal with a wide range of telephone and in-person enquiries from disabled people, older people and carers
- Liaison with organisations within the building to refer clients for advice/advocacy/casework approintments where necessary
- Internet access for members of the public to search for their own information.
Volunteers
The CIL welcomes disabeld people wanting to volunteer, to find out more about opportunities go to the Team London website.
More information
If you would like more information about the CIL please contact:
David Strong - Disability Advice Service Lambeth - Tel: 020 7642 0040 - Email david.strrong@disabilitylambeth.org.uk
or
Elaine Aherne
Telephone: 020 7926 4704
Email: elaineatlambethaccord@yahoo.co.uk.