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Deinstitutionalisation in Norway: the process, challenges and solutions
- Author:
- KIELLAND Christian B.
- Journal article citation:
- Tizard Learning Disability Review, 15(4), October 2010, pp.15-21.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
This article looks back at the process of deinstitutionalisation in Norway, which took place over 20 years ago and which led to a comprehensive system of community-based services. The new system aimed to give people with intellectual disabilities the aid they need in order to live lives as close to the lives of other people as possible. Each person should be entitled to his or her own individual dwelling in an ordinary flat or house. Basic services should be provided by the municipalities instead of the counties, with specialised services given by the counties. Services should be provided to each individual person according to his or her need. This article outlines the process and examines the issues which had to be addressed during the process of change. It considers what has been achieved in the areas of housing, services to assist activities of daily life, medical attention and specialised health services, labour market participation, education, personal integrity, rights, leisure-time activities and holidays. It concludes that the goals have only been partially achieved, but that Norway is still ahead of most other countries.