A
healthy society is one that maximises opportunity for each
of its members, regardless of their circumstances.
A
healthy society is also one that embraces diversity and is
not threatened by cultures, beliefs or behaviours outside
society’s norms.
Nobody
is a ‘burden’ on society. Everyone is part of
society and has an inherent and absolute worth as a human
being.
Promoting
social inclusion involves the active fostering of mutual inter-dependence
between individuals, groups of people and the state.
The
social exclusion of any group of people creates schisms that
are bad not only for the mental health of excluded individuals
but for mental health of society as a whole.
Social
exclusion is a ‘compound’ process. Its interconnections
mean exclusion in one area of life leads to exclusion in another.
Inclusion
therefore needs to be addressed in a holistic way. The catalysts
that promote inclusion will have wide ranging benefits, for
individuals and communities.
Specialist
services must be conceived as stepping-stones to inclusion,
not departure points for exclusion. The ultimate aim of inclusion
is enabling participation in the mainstream of society for
all those who desire it.
Excluded
groups are experts by experience. All processes of consultation,
policy-making and practice must not just include, but be driven
by, the views and needs of excluded groups.
Promoting
inclusion means leading public opinion. Clear and consistent
messages from Government, public bodies and the voluntary
sector are the only way to tackle ‘them and us’
thinking.
