Paths towards independent living and social inclusion in Europe

Increasing emphasis on independent living and social inclusion is driving deinstitutionalisation - the shift away from a reliance on residential institutions towards family- and community-based settings for the provision of care and services. The aim is to ensure that people at risk of marginalisation have opportunities to participate fully in society and to exercise their personal rights and freedoms. An institutional culture that gives rise to social isolation and loss of autonomy can be present in any care setting, but it is commonplace in long-stay residential institutions such as children's homes and nursing homes. Although deinstitutionalisation strategies have been adopted across the EU, shortcomings are apparent. This report presents evidence on changes in the extent of institutional living in the EU over time, as well as information on national deinstitutionalisation strategies and practices. It includes two person-centred case studies that illustrate the benefits of deinstitutionalisation and greater social inclusion and the challenges encountered in efforts towards these goals.