장애인복지법 15조 개정에 따른 지역사회에서의 정선장애인 복지서비스 확대 방안

Methods of Expanding Welfare Services for Individuals with Mental Disabilities Following the Amendment of Article 15 of the Disability Welfare Act: Focusing on Welfare Centers for the Disabled

Background/Objectives: This study aims to determine ways to expand programs to effectively support the rehabilitation and independence of individuals with mental disabilities, with a focus on disability welfare centers, in anticipation of the forthcoming amendment to Article 15 of the Disability Welfare Act. Methods: To objectively identify the welfare service needs of individuals with mental disabilities in Chungcheongbuk-do, a sample of individuals availing of disability welfare centers and psychiatric rehabilitation facilities were surveyed. Additionally, focus group interviews were conducted with middle managers who oversee program implementation at these facilities to address the welfare service needs of individuals with mental disabilities. Results: Individuals with mental disabilities expressed a preference for livelihood, housing, and leisure programs as desired welfare services. Middle managers of community welfare organizations, such as disability welfare centers, emphasized the need to expand welfare ser vices to promote “normalization” and ”community integration” for individuals with mental disabilities. Conclusion/Implications: To expand welfare services for individuals with mental disabilities, it is crucial to enhance various services using the strengths and capabilities of disability welfare centers.