Opening borders for people with disabilities

"Making life boundless for people with disabilities" is the joint motto of a research cooperation between CSHI (Center for Social & Health Innovation) at MCI and the Deaconry Rosenheim, one of the largest providers of social services for people with disabilities in Upper Bavaria. The EU-funded Interreg project aims to improve the social space-oriented and inclusive participation of women and men with disabilities in the areas of work & education, housing and leisure in the border region of Bavaria - Tyrol. The showcase project started in the middle of the peak of the Corona crisis and thus focuses on a population group that is often talked about but rarely given a voice of their own.

Even though structures have already been established between Bavaria and Tyrol that make cross-border living and working possible, demand-oriented care and the right of choice and desire are difficult to achieve for people with disabilities, and they are often rooted in the systems of their respective home countries. In addition to the lack of cross-border services, this is also due to a lack of knowledge about what is on offer in the neighbouring country as well as a lack of knowledge about personal rights and administrative hurdles.

The research project is based on the knowledge and experience of people with disabilities. It also draws on the experience of relatives and experts in institutions and politics and includes legal expertise. The aim is to create as solid a basis as possible for expanding existing services and improving access. The project runs from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021.

"We are firmly convinced - especially in times of isolation and the reintroduction of hard borders - to promote the networking of social, economic and political actors. This is done above all in the interests of vulnerable groups who will suffer most by the consequences of current developments such as the difficult labour market situation and tight public budgets," the two project partners agree.

Project contact person:

Sascha Gell, sascha.gell@mci.edu, Phone: +43 (0)512 2070-7423
Lukas Kerschbaumer, lukas.kerschbaumer@mci.edu, Phone: +43 (0)512 2070-742