“Although around 20 percent of the population of people in the workforce have a disability of some kind, a recent survey found that only 6 percent of volunteers describe themselves as disabled. Traditionally, disabled people benefited from volunteers” (Skill: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities). “Disabled people remain under-represented in the workplace and volunteering. Popular images portray disabled people as passive recipients of assistance from volunteers rather than as individuals using their skills and experience to assist others” (City University Centre for Careers and Skills Development). These comments may sound all too familiar to those of us promoting inclusion in community service here in the U.S. However, these remarks are attributed to several projects in England that promote and include volunteerism by people with disabilities.

The projects’ descriptions further assert that people with disabilities are an “untapped resource” but with accommodations and attitudinal changes, this pool of potential volunteers can successfully serve. Among the many examples of accessibility mentioned are flexible schedules, sign language, ramps, and personal supports. Interestingly, the projects mention that although the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995 protects employees, volunteers are not afforded this protection.

The UK projects recommend partnering with disability organizations to jointly conduct recruitment strategies. Additional guidance includes offering specific and finite opportunities to inexperienced volunteers. UK CSV and the UK CSV-RSVP.

In conclusion, it is interesting to travel outside our American national and community service parameters to examine how other countries are including individuals with disabilities. We find some similarities, differences, and many thoughtful strategies that we may not have considered. The highly recommended report referenced below includes interesting findings from the various perspectives of volunteers with disabilities. Findings describe:

• The range of experience, skills and abilities which people with disabilities can and do contribute
• Benefits and rewards of volunteering which people with disabilities experience
• Concerns, barriers and problems which people with disabilities face as potential volunteers
• Recommendations for recruiting and supporting people with disabilities as volunteers
• Views on what makes a good volunteer

This material originated from the report entitled, “Who's Helping Whom? Creating Opportunities for Older People with Disabilities.” The report was the product of a research project that examined the number of and quality of experiences for volunteers with disabilities in England. The summary of findings was presented at a conference in 2000, “Disability Need Be No Handicap” in London. The full report can be ordered by mailing to Director, CSV's Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme, 237 Pentonville Road, London N1 9NJ.