The implementation of the focus groups was one of the first activities developed within the scope of the Erasmus+ project Self Determination Academy (SDA), involving the three partner countries: Portugal, Ireland and Croatia. The focus groups aimed to gather relevant information to support the design of the SDA course, particularly regarding self-determination, self-advocacy, human rights and inclusion of autistic people and people with intellectual disabilities. The partners implemented these focus-groups
Each partner organised two focus groups: one with young people with and without disabilities, and another with experts in the fields of autism, intellectual disabilities, human rights and self-advocacy. Through these discussions, participants reflected on topics such as knowledge of human rights, discrimination, barriers to inclusion, accessibility, autonomy, and the importance of advocacy and self-representation. The sessions also allowed participants to share personal experiences, concerns and suggestions regarding the realities faced by people with disabilities in different social contexts, including education, employment and community participation.
The focus groups highlighted several common challenges across the three countries, such as limited awareness of rights, persistent stigma and discrimination, lack of accessibility, and insufficient support during the transition to adulthood. At the same time, participants reinforced the importance of awareness-raising, inclusive education, person-centred approaches and stronger opportunities for self-advocacy. The contributions collected through these activities played a fundamental role in shaping the structure and contents of the SDA course, ensuring that it responded directly to the real needs and experiences of the target groups.
The implementation of the focus groups also represented an important opportunity to actively involve young people with disabilities in the development of the project, reinforcing the principles of participation, inclusion and self-determination promoted by the Self Determination Academy.
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