Darlington Association on Disability Mission Statement
Darlington Association on Disability is an organisation led by disabled people, which exists to promote independence and choice.
Dad supports disabled people and their carers through the provision of services, support and information and by tackling issues affecting disabled people both locally and nationally.
Introduction
Darlington Association on Disability (DAD) was established in 1986 as a voluntary and charitable organisation led by disabled people. It exists to promote independence and choice, and supports disabled people and carers through the provision of services, support and information and by tackling issues locally and nationally. DAD promotes the social model of disability, and as part of that remit is actively involved in promoting disability equality and awareness of the Disability Discrimination Act.
DAD acts as a focal point for consultation with disabled people and carers. It also manages a range of services / projects to support its aims including:
Playcare and leisure services for disabled children and young people (DASH)
Free loan service which supplies powered wheelchairs and scooters (Shopmobility)
Support and information to carers and strategic policy development work on carer’s issues (Carers Service)
A user led disability initiative offering education, training, self-development skills, social and leisure opportunities (Dimensions)
An information service handling a wide range of enquiries from disabled people and carers, the general public, voluntary and statutory agencies including the local Community Rehabilitation Team (Information)
A user led group working in partnership with a wide range of organisations, which enables people to work together to promote and consult on access issues in the widest sense (Access Interest Group and Consultancy)
Promotion of the social model of disability and the Disability Discrimination Act (Disability Equality Training).
Support for disabled people to take control of their care needs by managing a payment from the local authority to purchase the service of their choice (Direct Payment Support Service)
Recruitment and support of volunteers across the organisation (Volunteer Project).
