Define Social Inclusion

1)Define the term social inclusion. Social inclusion can be defined as a concept where everyone in society or in a community feels valued, their beliefs and culture are respected, people with disabilities are treated with dignity and given the opportunity to contribute to their respective community. Social inclusion also involves ensuring people’s basic needs are being met, all people have equal opportunities to gain employment, everyone is able to access educational opportunities and are able to find safe and affordable living accommodations.
The Collins Dictionary defines social inclusion as: Social inclusion is the act of making all groups of people within a society feel valued and important.
2) Describe what contributes to social inclusion.
For a person to feel included in society they must have access to high quality, nutrition food, suitable and affordable shelter, and access to health care, including mental health services, addiction counselling and medical care on a timely basis. There also needs to be affordable and convenient transportation available for the person to be able to use the services provided by the community. Society must also promote equal access to job opportunities (employers need to accommodate a person needs with disabilities. For example, having flexible hours of work, allowing frequent breaks, and allowing the person time off for counselling/medical appointments) A person must have the capability to gain skills training or education so they may improve their quality of life( better job, personal growth or acquire a new skill) Society must also allow our individuals to have a say on how our society is run ( ability to vote, protest and advocate for themselves).Be able to access recreational activities such as community ran arts and cultural events and the ability to participate on sport’s teams. When a community addresses the above-mentioned factors, the community will become socially inclusive.
3) Select one of the inclusion, themes listed in the MHCC