EASPD –European Association of Service providers for Persons with Disabilities - is a wide European network which represents around 17.000 services across Europe and across disabilities. The main objective of EASPD is to promote the equalisation of opportunities for people with disabilities through effective and high quality service systems. The work of the organisation is based on the three interconnected pillars of Impact (European Policy), Innovation (Research & Development as well as implementation of international projects) and Information (for the members). EASPD and its members are committed to use and develop models of good practices to promote the respect, inclusion, rights based on effective participation and full citizenship for those it supports, following the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. As such, EASPD advocates for the quality, accessibility, affordability and availability of community-based, user-centred social and health services for all across Europe.
EASPD and its members have long term cooperation and partnerships with users organisations, employers, universities and researchers, education providers and authorities at all levels. We strive to deliver high-quality services promoting the full participation and inclusion of all disabled persons in society. Every year, EASPD organises a series of events for its members and partners, such as international conferences, service provider networks, Disabled Persons’ Organisations (DPOs), human rights agencies, civil servants active at EU or Member State level and researchers. These events provide information on important EU policy developments in the disability and social sector, studies, projects, and at the same time allow our members to provide input from a grassroots level and discuss about employment, education and independent living issues with each other and other stakeholders. We discuss how best to respond to the sector's new challenges and opportunities, as well as to exchange know-how and best practices.
