Leadership for social inclusion in the lives of people with disabilities

Abstract

there is widespread espousal that social inclusion is important in the lives of people with disabilities 1 , significant progress is yet to occur. This article identifies five challenges for those in leadership roles: developing a deep sense of what the concept 'social inclusion' really means; confronting the values questions; developing consciousness of what the community is taught through the actions of services; transforming the role of services and workers; and the use of theory-based knowledge. The article also explores the attributes of those in leadership roles, so that they are more equipped to respond to these challenges: ethical and moral leadership; a combination of conceptual clarity, insight, knowledge and wisdom; authentic relationships with people with disabilities and family members; an appreciation of history; and a faith and efforts in things that are likely to bring dividends.