BCIL Connect Transport for disabled adults

Description

BCIL Transport service was set up in the social model to help and empower disabled adults to have a full and connected life in their community. We have three wheelchair accessible vans that provide this service in Dublin 15 taking adults to appointments and social events when the need arises. Word of mouth has spread about our inclusive dependable service so we are busy supporting older and disabled adults to get out and about and take that course in the community centre or make it to the hairdresser along with getting to the Doctor on time. Our drivers are friendly efficient and trained in disability equality, they are the backbone of the service. As people get older they are more likely to develop a disability and issues such as transport can be come important and stressful, so knowing that BCIL are there to help is a huge comfort for the community. As an organisation at the cold face of disability and age we report our findings up to our umbrella organisation DFI and also to Fingal County Council and the local Councillors mostly through the Public Participation Network. We are aware that as people get older and develop an impairment or disability such as loss of sight or hearing or arthritis our service takes the time to encourage the person to travel so not to lose independence or autonomy

Aim of Initiative

Our aim is to provide safe secure and reliable transport as part of our services to encourage and empower people to take part in their community. Transport being available reduces the isolation felt by many disabled and older people as they are willing to attend events and be safe in the knowledge they can get home without issue.

Who is it aimed at

Originally the service was aimed at the disability community but as it has aged we cover Disabled adults and older people who have aged with the service.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Funding, Sourcing the funds to update the vans. BCIL have sourced funding from all areas to help update and keep the vans on the road
2. At BCIL our core values are underpinned by the philosophy of Independent Living and all our activities are aimed towards promoting Independence, Choice, Rights and Empowerment. We listen to our members to keep improving our service.
3. Keeping up high standards for staff and members, consideration of our members and being flexible when needed.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Funding
2. Cost of Living
3. Timing

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Accessibility: Ensuring that our transport is fully accessible to people with disabilities and older adults ensures their participation in taking part in their community
2. Affordable: As our service is donation based it is affordable as taxis are extremely expensive.
3. quality of service: BCIL are more than a transport service as the need that arises for each member is supported and they can advocate for themselves.