Social Inclusion

Theme: Social Inclusion Social Inclusion and Health Gain: Delivering on the promise Roy McConkey (Ireland) co-referent: Raymond Ceccotto (LUX)	Roy McConkey
The delivery of health gains for people with intellectual disabilities is proving an elusive goal: an indication in itself of the complexity of this endeavour. To date, much effort has been expended on addressing the physical and mental ill-health of individuals. A complementary approach, with a focus on social and societal influences on health and well-being, may ultimately be more fruitful. Strategies for counteracting social exclusion and building people’s social capital seem core to delivering on the promise of a healthier and more fulfilled life for citizens with an intellectual disability, irrespective of which country they live in.
Roy McConkey Roy is Professor of Learning Disability at the University of Ulster; a post jointly funded with the Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland. He has previously held posts in England, Ireland and Scotland and acted as a consultant to various United Nations agencies and International NGOs.