Calendar of International Disability Related Events

http://v1.dpi.org/lang-en/events/details?page=713
4th Africa Forum (IDP): CALL FOR PAPERS

Nairobi, Kenya
May 6 - 12, 2007
JAMII JUMUISHI - SOCIAL INCLUSION

The IDP (a partner of the World Blind Union) and the Africa Forum Host Committee of Kenya is proud to announce the first call for papers for the 4th Africa Forum (Nairobi Kenya, May 6 - 12, 2007).

Papers for this important Forum should be built upon the concept of Social Inclusion and the challenges and/or opportunities facing the population of blind and visually impaired citizens of Africa.

Papers should relate to one of these main areas:

   Blindness and social exclusion

   Opportunities and/or challenges towards inclusive education

   Blindness is no barrier to employability

   Leisure & sport

Authors who are selected for paper presentations will be advised and given a deadline with specific details for full paper submissions. Accepted papers must be completed and received by the program committee by March 31, 2007.

Presenters will work in panels of 3-4 based on the subject of their submissions. We are seeking papers built on practical life experience, academic research, and/or the development of knowledge from program implementation. In addition, we encourage organizations that are involved in policy development to submit papers for open discussion on the issues that their work is addressing.

Abstracts for this important conference, should not exceed one hundred and fifty (150) words, and should be submitted no later than December 15, 2006 via email to aubrey.webson@perkins.orgor via fax to +1-617-923-8076.

Registration details will be posted shortly on www.wbu-idp.org, or e-mail your interest to africaforum2007@wbu-idp.org

6-11, London, UK: The Usability Week 2007 Conference

http://www.nngroup.com/events/london/agenda.html
Usability Week 2007 takes you beyond the typical conference experience, offering a three-day usability camp, a three-day intensive session on interaction design, and several specialized, day-long tutorials that get both broad and deep on core usability topics. Come for as few or as many days as you want.
The philosophy of the Nielsen Norman Group is simple: To help companies enter the age of the consumer, designing human-centered products and services.

Human-centered products emphasize user experience over factors like technology, features, or marketing points. "User experience" encompasses all aspects of the end-user's interaction with your company, your services, and your products. Human-centered products meet the exact needs of your customer, without fuss or bother. They are simple and elegant, a joy to own, a joy to use.

Your products reflect your overall company strategy and culture. In corporate cultures that emphasize technology, features, marketing points, or your company organization (in the case of websites), user experience is not given priority, and human-centered products will not result. Are your help lines too expensive? The fact that customers need so much help is a sign of poor products. Want a better product? You probably have to reorganize your company and change your product process.

Customer-centered, human-centered design requires corporate commitment, and a seamless merging of the services of multiple disciplines, including engineering, marketing, graphical and industrial design, and interface design. The results are faster design cycles, customers who are more satisfied and more loyal, and the transition of help lines and service desks from complaint posts and cost centers into positive customer experiences: a chance to interact and renew customer commitment, a chance to increase sales and loyalty.

Who We Are Nielsen Norman Group is an expert on corporate culture and the human-centered product development process. We help you develop corporate-wide customer-centered product development strategies and processes.
Nielsen Norman Group members

What We Do We help you restructure your product process so as to lead to permanent, high-impact changes. Our goal is permanent, effective improvement in products, and for this, it is essential to examine the product process and corporate culture and goals. We help establish processes that guarantee increased quality for all future designs. Even when we provide a design review of a single product or service, the main value is not so much the improvements to specific elements in that design as it is the conceptual insights that you and your staff can apply yourself to future projects.

We help you enhance the relationship between your users, your products, and your company. For your company's products to have maximal user experience, you must have high-quality teams of engineers, programmers, marketing groups, manufacturing experts, and user experience experts. We show how all these groups can play equal, supporting roles, how all are essential if the product is to be successful.

We help formulate company strategy. Then we will help you execute the appropriate tactics. To this end, we show the role of the user experience community: Ethnographers, behavioral, interaction designers, rapid prototypers, user testers, graphical and industrial designers. These skills are essential ingredients of good products: You must have these experts on your design team. We show you how to use them and we can help you find them. NN Group affiliates are highly qualified designers across the world who can help you with your design.

7-13, Manchester, England, UK: 2007 Visa Paralympic World Cup

http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/March2007/08/c8479.html
The week-long competition is the biggest annual multi-sport competition for elite athletes with a disability in athletics, swimming, track cycling and wheelchair basketball. The events will take place at the Manchester Velodrome, the Manchester Aquatics Centre and the Manchester Regional Arena.
Last year, 340 athletes from 40 countries participated in the event, now in its third year. Canada won five medals in 2006: one gold, three silver and one bronze. The Canadian men's basketball team took the gold in front of a packed crowd at Manchester Velodrome. Canada was also represented by five swimmers, including multiple Paralympic gold medalist Stephanie Dixon, and seven athletes in athletics. No Canadian cyclists were invited by the organizers last year.
Below is basic information about the accreditation application process, media services and accommodation.

8, Parkville, Australia: Continence and Toileting Difficulties for Children with Disabilities

The Royal Children's Hospital's Department of Developmental Medicine is holding a series of information sessions for parents and carers of children with disabilities on a range of topics.

Tuesday 1 May: 'Cerebral Palsy, Causes, Management and Research' with Dr Gordon Baikie, consultant paediatrician.

Tuesday 8 May: 'Continence and Toileting Difficulties for Children with Disabilities' with Ms Stella Dohle and Ms Judy Wells, nurse consultants, continence.

Tuesday 15 May: 'Developmental Delay, What Does This Term Mean? Intervention and Therapy' with Dr Bronwyn Cathels, consultant paediatrician.

Tuesday 22 May: 'Autism Spectrum Disorders' with Dr Catherine Marraffa, consultant paediatrician.

Tuesday 29 May: 'Services and Support for Children with Disabilities' with Ms Amy Clancey, social worker.

Tuesday 5 June: 'Transition - Moving on to Adult Services' with Ms Felicity Sloman, transition nurse co-ordinator.

All sessions are held between 7.15pm and 9.30pm at the Ella Latham Theatre, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, and cost $15 per head or $25 per couple.

To register and for more information, download the attached form or email education.seminars@rch.org.au
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=139216

9-11, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom: International Conference on Learning in Later Life

http://www.thematuremarket.com/SeniorStrategic/United%20Kingdom-287--5.html
A LEGACY OF LEARNING:
Sharing global experiences of learning in later life'
9th to 11th May 2007, Glasgow, Scotland
An international conference for academics, professionals, practitioners and older learners to explore experiences of developing successful models, practices and principles of learning in later life.
Hosted by the University of Strathclyde Senior Studies Institute
Theme: A LEGACY OF LEARNING
Sharing global experiences of learning in later life
Date: 9th to 11th May 2007
Venue: University of Strathclyde, Senior Studies Institute, Glasgow, Scotland
Overview
The last two decades have witnessed a growing worldwide trend towards older people learning in later life. Policy makers, institutions, and older populations have become increasingly aware of the potential benefits of third age learning, both to individuals and as a new educational market. However, participation rates, levels of support and methodologies vary greatly.
This conference will bring together academics, professionals, practitioners and older learners from throughout the world to explore their experience of developing successful models, practices and understanding of core principles of learning in later life.
Closing date for applications: 6 April 2007
For more information please see this brochure.
Here you can download the delegate booking form.
For information and booking please contact:
Jan Devon or Alice Morton, Conference Office
Senior Studies Institute
University of Strathclyde
40 George Street
Glasgow G1 1QE, Scotland
Tel: 0044 141 548 4706/2735
Fax: 0044 141 553 1270
Email: janetta.devon@strath.ac.uk

9-12, Estoril, Portugal: 17th Alzheimer Europe Conference

http://www.alzheimer-conference.org/
We have received a large number of abstracts for the 17th Alzheimer Europe Conference, scheduled to take place in Estoril (Portugal) on 9-12 May 2007.
It is a great pleasure and honour to announce the 17th Alzheimer Europe Conference, which will take place in Estoril, Portugal, from 9-12 May 2007.

This year, the Alzheimer Europe Conference will be receiving the high sponsorship from His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Portugal, Prof. Aníbal Cavaco Silva.

It is therefore an honour to invite you all to attend the "Sound of Silence" conference. It will be a great opportunity to exchange views, learn from each other's experiences and to come to a multidisciplinary consensus about good practices in matters concerning the quality of life of people with dementia and their caregivers.

See you in Portugal!

11, London, U.K.: The Author of The Mental Capacity Act Manual introduces the new Mental Capacity Act

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 reforms and clarifies the law under which decisions need to be made on behalf of those who lack mental capacity. The Act will have an impact on the majority of our adult population whether as patients or carers. Its implications for health care professionals are far-reaching. Assessment of capacity will no longer be a matter purely for the clinician and yet a recent survey identified that 62% of health care managers knew nothing about the Act. Understandably, significant training implications have been identified by the Department of Health.
http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/MCA%20Training%20Richard%20Jones%20April%20to%20July%2007.pdf

10-12, Göteborg, 9th Sweden: Nordic Network on Disability Research

The 9th NNDR (Nordic Network on Disability Research) conference will take place on May 10 - 12, 2007, in Göteborg, Sweden.
The conference theme 2007 "Participation for all - the front line of disability research" provides a broad platform for current and new challenges in disability research. All groups involved with disability research and practice are welcome to participate and the programme includes social events and opportunities for networking and informal discussions.
Spring is in the air in Göteborg in May and you can truly enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the venue of the Conference which is located at Eriksberg with a magnificent view across Göteborg and the harbour entrance.
On the behalf of the organizing committee and the NNDR, I wish you warmly welcome to an event full of life and knowledge.
http://www.nndr2007.com/?Welcome
Topics:
Disability and parenthood
Gender and disability
Participation in working life
Diagnoses and diagnosing
Communication and disability
Intervention research
Design for all
Participation in school
Participation in every day life
Methods in disability research
Self-determination and empowerment
Other topics

10-24, Torshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark: International Conference on Fetal Programming and Developmental Toxicity

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/articles/partner_events/957
http://www.scandinavica.com/faroe.htm
The International Conference on Fetal Programming and Developmental Toxicity will take place May 20-24, 2007. It will focus on fetal and early postnatal development as the most vulnerable stages of human life, in regard to adverse effects of environmental hazards. The venue is Torshavn, Faroe Islands, a unique setting, where part of the conference program will include a ferry trip between the islands.

14, London, UK: Sharing Patient Information

There is an increasing focus on best practice in sharing patient information within the NHS. This is as a result of the Information Governance Policy, ‘Connecting for Health’ and recent guidance from the Information Commissioner in relation to recent changes in the law and subsequent case law (data protection, freedom of information and the environmental information regulations).
Our one day course will cover the key issues in relation to freedom of information, data protection and other related guidance. It is specially designed for those health care professionals who would like the opportunity to review their knowledge about the application and implementation of the recent changes in law and guidance in these areas, and who would like to learn about related best practice. The course will cover the practical implications of everyday working including decision-making in relation to disclosure of information about patients, the NHS Code of Confidentiality, information governance as well as best practice in relation to recording information.
http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/Sharing%20patient%20info%20flyer.pdf
Monday 14th May 07
London
Monday 23rd July 07
Leeds
Monday 15th October 07
Leeds
Tuesday 4th December 07
London

14-15, Bratislava, Slovakia: European Conference on 'Millennium Development Goals: Inclusion of People with Disabilities'

eRko, the Slovak partner of the EU project "Disability Mainstreaming in Development Cooperation", is organizing a major European Conference on inclusion of disability in the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs). The conference will take place 14-15 May 2007 in Bratislava, Slovakia.
http://www.make-development-inclusive.org/newsdetail.php?wid=1024&spk=en&nb=9
eRko - the Slovak partner of the EU project 'Disability Mainstreaming in Development Cooperation' invites you to a major European Conference on inclusion of disability in the MDGS.

2007 marks the mid-term review stage of the MDGs. We must now ask the question – how well have the MDGs addressed the concerns of persons with disabilities in developing countries and what more needs to be done to make this happen ?

This International Event will bring together actors from Governments, the EU institutions, and representatives from organizations of persons with disabilities and development NGOs from the South and the North.

We will come together to discuss the issues concerning the Millennium Development Goals, to develop ideas and measures for disability to be better recognised in the practical implementation of the MDGs.

For further information please contact: Zuzana Bašistová, the Conference coordinator: zuzana[at]erko[dot]sk, Tel: +421-2-20445 254, Fax: +421-2-20445 250

15, Maroondah, Australia: Positive Ageing, Information Session for Older Adults

http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=143849
Events and Activities - Information Sessions for Older Adults
Contributor: Ann Clendinnen.
Source: Maroondah City Council.
Posted: 28-03-2007

Four information sessions will be presented by professional high quality speakers on these important topics:

Buying a Computer, Tuesday 17 April.
Power of Attorney, Tuesday 24 April.
Reverse Mortgages, Tuesday 1 May.
Positive Ageing, Tuesday 15 May.
All sessions will be held from 10.30am to midday at Maroondah Federation Estate, Rooms 1 and 2, 32 Greenwoood Avenue, Ringwood (Melway Reference 49 H10).

Light refreshments provided. All sessions are free. Bookings essential.

Please RSVP to Ann Clendinnen a week prior to the session on (03) 9298 4226 or ann.clendinnen@maroondah.vic.gov.au.

15, Parkville, Australia: Developmental Delay, What Does This Term Mean? Intervention and Therapy

15-17, Southbank, QLD, Australia: Their Lives Our Work: Building hope through practice excellence

http://www.healthnews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=108511
A national symposium, Their Lives Our Work: Building hope through practice excellence, is to be held on Tuesday 15 to Thursday 17 May 2007, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Southbank. QLD.
This is relevant for people working with children, young people and families with complex needs.

16, Online: A Conversation with Heather Logan from the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS)

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/articles/partnership_calls/1084
On this call, Michael Lerner, President of Commonweal, and Founding Partner of CHE will talk with Heather Logan, Director of Cancer Control Policy for the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), about CCS' policy position on cancer and the environment, its origins, and its reception from Canadian and other constituencies to date.

The Canadian Cancer Society recently adopted the most comprehensive policy position on cancer and the environment of any national cancer society of which we are aware. While President Jacques Chirac of France has advocated an equally comprehensive approach to the environment and cancer for the French National Cancer Plan, the Canadian Cancer Society statement stands out as what many CHE Partners consider a model statement for voluntary cancer organizations.

18-19, Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland: Cultural Representations of Psychiatry

http://cfp.english.upenn.edu/archive/Science/0325.html
Swietokrzyska Academy in Piotrkow Trybunalski (Poland)
English Philology Department
Invites all the interested scholars to participate in an international two-day conference:
Cultural representations of psychiatry and mental illness
18th - 19th May 2007
The suggested topics might include but are not limited to:
Representations of the mentally ill in cinema and literature (shell-shock
and other posttraumatic shock disorders, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar
disorder, eating disorders, substance-abuse related illnesses, suicide)
Representations of the doctor-patient relationships
Gender and madness
Writing as a symptom/writing as a cure
Madness and artistic creativity
Madness and addiction in the Gothic
Madness in mythology, folklore and religion
Representations of psychoanalysis/works inspired by Freudian theories
Psychoanalytical/psychiatric reading of literary works, films, paintings,
etc.
ABSTRACTS:
We invite abstracts of up to 250 words. Deadline for topic proposals and abstracts is 25th February 2007. The organising committee will notify all the potential conference participants about the acceptance of their proposals by 2nd March. The official languages of the conference are Polish and English.
VENUE:
The conference will be held at:
Akademia Świętokrzyska, Filia w Piotrkowie Trybunalskim
Samodzielny Zakład Filologii Angielskiej
ul. Słowackiego 116/118
97-300 Piotrków Trybunalski
Poland
FEE:
The conference fee covers conference materials, coffee breaks and lunches. A selection of conference papers will be published by Naukowe Wydawnictwo Piotrkowskie.
Conference fee 150 PLZ (40 euro)
Doctoral students 110 PLZ (30 euro)
The account number and further details will be sent to the conference participants in the next circular.
ACCOMMODATION:
We can assist the participants in their hotel bookings, either at Hotel Trybunalski or one of local Halls of Residence (budged but comfortable).
Both are within a walking distance from the venue.
ORGANISERS:
Prof. Barbara Lewandowska �Tomaszczyk; Dr Katarzyna Szmigiero, Mgr Agnieszka Stanecka
Please direct any questions and abstracts to szmigierko@hotmail.com

20, Broadmeadows, Australia: Paralympic Talent Search

The Australian Paralympic Committee is currently searching for people with a disability who display the athletic ability to be potential Paralympians. Sunday 20 May, Broadmeadows.
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=148344
The Australian Paralympic Committee is currently searching for people with a disability who display the athletic ability to be potential Paralympians.

As part of the search, a series of talent search days are being held around Australia, and is open to amputees, limb deficiencies, people with cerebral palsy, people in wheelchairs and the blind and vision impaired.

Coaches from various Paralympic sports will be on hand to help identify talent, and participants will undergo a series of tests and measurements.

Those identified as showing potential in their sport will be given advice about how to further pursue their sporting goals.

The Paralympic Talent Search is coming to Melbourne for times during 2007, the first occasion being in May.

When: Sunday 20 May.

Where: Broadmeadows Leisure Centre.

There will be further dates in June (south east Melbourne), October (northern Melbourne) and December (western Melbourne), and the Talent Search will also be visiting Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and some regional venues.

22, Parkville, Australia: Autism Spectrum Disorders

23, Online: Biomedical Treatments for Autism, Asperger's syndrome and AD(H)D Conference and Chat!

The Great Plains Laboratory is happy to announce the opportunity to listen and speak directly to Dr. William Shaw about biomedical treatments for Autism, Asperger's syndrome and AD(H)D through online conferences and chats!
The web conferences will offer an invaluable FREE resource for parents and professionals from all over the world who want to find out more about the biomedical treatments for autism, developmental disorders and chronic neurological disorders, and to get answers from one of the greatest experts in biological treatments for autism and PDD.
http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/online-conference/online-conference.html
January 24, 2007 in English: "Oxalates Control is a Major New Factor in Autism Therapy"
February 7, 2007 in English: "Oxalates Control is a Major New Factor in Autism Therapy"
February 13, 2007 in Portuguese: "O Controle de Oxalatos é um dos principais novos fatores nas terapias do autismo"
March 6, 2007 in Spanish: "El Control de Oxalatos es el factor importante más nuevo en las terapias del Autismo"
March 27, 2007 in Spanish: "El Control de Oxalatos es el factor importante más nuevo en las terapias del Autismo"
April 4, 2007 in Japanese: "Oxalates Control is a Major New Factor in Autism Therapy"
May 2, 2007 in French: "Le contrôle des Oxalates est le facteur important le plus nouveau dans les thérapies de l'Autisme"
May 23, 2007 in Italian: "Oxalates Control is a Major New Factor in Autism Therapy"

23, Newcastle , UK: Embracing Diversity Seminar Series

http://www.actiononaccess.org/index.php?p=2_3_2&id=89
The Higher Education Academy and Action on Access are running a series of four seminars in different locations to bring together staff with an active widening participation or diversity brief. These seminars will form part of the Academy's Widening Participation Research Service and will assist the development of evidence-based practice as diversity and widening participation becomes increasingly important to HE institution's mission and strategy. Discussion between researchers, academic staff and outreach workers will
· publicise research findings and work in progress
· suggest ways in which research can inform practice
· highlight areas where additional research would be useful
· showcase resources to assist the development of evidence-based practice
Target Audience
This series will be particularly useful for all staff with an active widening participation or diversity brief, particularly those engaged in
· researching the HE student experience
· delivering outreach and pre-entry activities
· managing the HE student experience
Objectives
Each of these events will:
· bring together staff with an active WP brief to share practice and explore strategies
· support the embedding of WP and diversity within institutions' missions and strategic goals and across all aspects of their structures and processes
· promote curriculum development to support the learning and teaching of a diverse student population
· encourage institutions to maintain a focus on WP across the student lifecycle
LONDON Thursday 25 January 2007
UNIV OF MANCHESTER Thursday 22 March 2007
NEWCASTLE Wednesday 23 May 2007

23-25, Sydney, Australia: Women and Depression Conference

http://www.womenanddepression.herwill.net/modules/wfchannel
WOMEN AND DEPRESSION CONFERENCE 23/24/25 MAY 2007
CONFERENCE DATES: 23/24/25/MAY 2007

BACKGROUND

Women are very diverse, but experiences of depression are common. Depression cuts across age, class and cultural differences. While it may be experienced differently according to a range of factors, the broader challenges depression poses to women's emotional and physical well being are enormous.

THIS CONFERENCE

This conference explores the challenges of depression in relation to women. The approach is multifaceted, to reflect both the diversity of women, and the complexity of depression per se. But it contains an underlying and unifying theme which is rarely acknowledged either in biomedical discourse or popular debate:

Depression is always influenced by social and political dimensions. While not reducible to socio-political factors, depression cannot be seen in "personal" terms alone

This suggests the need for holistic healing in the wide senses of the term. Depression is clearly not gender specific, and many aspects of the conference may be pertinent to men. But the focus on women is maintained. There are senses in which depression is gendered in ways which have yet to be considered, and creation of a space in which women can explore some of the issues involved is a high priority. The aim is to discuss topics from a range of perspectives, and to combine a diverse audience of women with a view to increased understanding and practical strategies in the healing and management of depression.

WHO IS PARTICIPATING?

Researchers, health professionals, clients and interested women from all walks of life have beeninvited to participate. Many have responded and are listed under Presenters and Expressions of Interest. Parallel sessions will be offered, as well as opening and closing plenary sessions, in which contrasting and common issues will be discussed.

WHEN AND WHERE?

The WOMEN AND DEPRESSION CONFERENCE 2007 is taking place in Sydney at: The Carlton Crest May 2007

23-27, Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Opening the Sensory World to Children & Adults with Complex Disabilities

http://sensoryconference.ca/emphasis07.html
Conference papers and presentations cover all areas related to the sensory field including the effective use of Sensory work with special populations (ASD, dual diagnosis, Down's Syndrome etc.) focusing on programs, innovations, clinical practices and areas of research.

Areas of presentation include:

Sensory Difficulties and Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Behaviour and Sensory Expressions
Snoezelen and the Sensory System
Neurobiology and Sensory Impairments
Brain Neuroplasticity and Sensory Work
Sensory Interventions across the Life Span
Sensory Activities in the Education System
Communication and Sensory Impairments
Using Music, the Arts & Sandplay Therapy to Meet Sensory Needs
Yoga and Sensory Functioning
Research and the Functioning of the Sensory System

& any other areas pertaining to the Sensory Field
http://sensoryconference.ca/preconf07.html
We Offer 5 full day Pre-Conference Workshops on Wednesday, May 23rd
Registration opens at 8am. Workshops will run from 9.00am -5.00pm
Workshop # 1: Mandy Williams (B.App.Sci OT): A Sensory-focused Banquet: Ingredients for individualized sensory-focused activities for adults who are unintentional or early intentional communicators
Workshop # 2: Ellen Yack, M.Ed., B.Sc., O.T.: The Links Between Sensory Processing and Behaviour
Workshop # 3: Linda Messbauer, M.Sc., O.T.R.: The use of Snoezelen/MSE now... The New Science that supports it.
Workshop # 4: Michelle Manning, B.A. Psychology: I am not cheap, I am financially challenged: Integrating Sensory experiences inexpensively into the classroom and daily living
Workshop # 5: Brenda Weinberg, M.A. (Psychology) a Ph.D. candidate: Art in the Classroom and the Therapy Room

24, Paris, France: Promoting Policies for Inclusion and EFA at UNESCO

Following the presentation of the UN Special Rapporteur's report to the Human Rights Council in March, UNESCO will host the launch of the report to the worldwide education community. With the participation of the UNESCO Director General, Mr. Koichiro Matsuura, and the UN Special Rapporteur himself, Mr. Vernor Munoz, UNESCO is planning a day of roundtable discussions for Member State delegates, UN partner organisations, education institutes and Paris-based staff. Topics will include: developing policies on the basis of normative frameworks, esp. the new Convention, monitoring and planning for inclusion and the major challenges in truly meeting the needs of learners with disabilities. The launch and roundtables will be followed by an exhibition of art by and on person's with disabilities.
e-mail: ie@unesco.org
We welcome you to our seventh issue of "e-FlagNews" from the joint secretariat of the UNESCO Education for All (EFA) Flagship - The Right to Education for Persons with Disabilities: Towards Inclusion. We would like to welcome our new readers and reiterate our main aim which is to keep you updated on some of the important recent and forthcoming activities concerning the right to education for persons with disabilities.
The Flagship joint Secretariat is shared by University of Jyväskylä, FIDIDA and UNESCO. For those of you who are not familiar with our flagship, might we suggest you read more about us through this link: http://www.inclusionflagship.net

24-25, Gold Coast, Australia: Cerebral Palsy Australia National Conference, Thinking Outside the Chair - Innovation, Creativity and Collaboration, the Future of Disability Services

http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=144975
The conference is designed for both service providers and users and will focus on new solutions and innovation, particularly relating to research, service delivery, and empowerment.

There will be a series of workshops and panel sessions, plus guest speakers including author, broadcaster and columnist Phillip Adams, Radio National 'Health Report' presenter Dr Norman Swan, Paralympic bronze medallist Marayke Jonkers and community advocate Ric Thompson.
When: Thursday 24 and Friday 25 May.
Where: Jupiters Casino, Gold Coast.
The Australasian Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine is holding its annual workshop, 'Moving ahead for children with cerebral palsy', in conjunction with the conference.
When: Wednesday 23 May, 9am to 4.30pm.
Where: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

24-27, Ottawa, Canada: CANCER, It’s About Prevention. It’s About Time!

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/articles/partner_events/1171
At least half of all cancers are preventable - so why are many cancers still on the rise? Why do Canadians have so many chemicals in their blood? Why are we still being exposed to so many carcinogens in the air we breathe, the water we use, the products we use and the food we eat?

Prevent Cancer Now and the Saunders-Matthey Cancer Prevention Coalition are co-sponsoring a national conference to ask these important questions, and develop a solid response. Outstanding keynote speakers, topic workshops, regional organizing workshops, and launch of the book Cancer: 101 Solutions to a Preventable Epidemic.

25, Windsor, Australia: All Abilities Karaoke Dance Parties

Karaoke Dance Parties 2007

Come shake your booty and give your vocal cords a workout as the Joint Councils Access for All Abilities Karaoke Dance Parties return for 2007. These are events for people aged 18 and over. Friday 25 May (and again in August and November), Windsor.
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=146968
When: Friday 25 May (with parties also being held on Friday 31 August and Friday 30 November), 7pm to 10pm.

25, North Adelaide, Australia: "Through the Looking Glass" Attachment theory within a feminist framework

http://www.yonknet.org.au/group/noticeboard/items/20070406010b.shtml
Women's Health Statewide in association with Respond SA
present
2007 Friday Forums FREE from 3-5pm on the last Friday of the month

This is an opportunity to hear vibrant speakers presenting diverse practice perspectives on issues related to Violence and Abuse. It is our intention to create an opportunity for shared conversations on a variety of themes. Stay to relax and network while enjoying delicious drinks and nibbles.

23 February                 Effects of Domestic Violence and Trauma on
Women - Dr. Peter Mertin and Danielle Zerk

30 March               ‘’Never use alcohol as a Lubricant’’: exploring the issue of sexual assault within the drinking environment - Brindi Johstone

27 April                    The Pros and Cons of Screening Tools in Violence and Abuse Work - BJ / Second Story

25 May                 "Through the Looking Glass" Attachment theory within a feminist framework - Jude Hill

29 June                     Connections between violence/ abuse, mental health and grief/loss - Helen Duffy

27 July                         "Adults talking about CSA: Client and worker, experiences of disclosures and help seeking" -                                                 Respond SA Research

31 August                   Sexual Violence Prevention Research Project- Marg Rowntree

28 September           Work with men who have been sexually abused in childhood and who use violence in their relationships

26 October                  Supervisory Practices

30 November           Children into State Care, Commission of Inquiry Report

Forums are held at Women's Health Statewide, 64 Pennington Tce, North Adelaide
Bookings are essential on 8239 9600

25, Whistler, BC, Canada: 4th Annual Health Care Provider Conference Reaching New Peaks

http://www.worksafebc.com/news_room/conferences/default.asp
WorkSafeBC's Health Care Services is hosting the 4th Annual Health Care Provider Conference. The conference seeks to recognize our health care providers by providing an opportunity for continuing education and networking. Speakers will bring their expertise and perspective on a broad range of injury and rehabilitation topics.
Conference highlights:
Rick Hansen, C.C., O.B.C., President and CEO Rick Hansen Foundation
The Aging Workforce: Promise or Peril in the Workplace? by Dr. Glen Pransky, MD, MOcc.H., Director in the Centre for Disability Research, Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety
Evidence-Based Decisions in Workers' Compensation Health Care by Dr. Gary Franklin, MD, MPH. Research Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, and of Medicine - Neurology, Medical Director in Washington State Department of Labor & Industries
Concurrent Sessions (Participants may choose from two different sessions):
There and Back Again: a Round Trip Journey through Return-to-work Practice and Research by Dr. Andrew Clarke, MD. Occupational Health Physician from Clarke, Brown Associates.
Identifying Factors Related to Disability and Return to Work in Low Back Pain (limited to 100 people) by Dr. Jill Hayden, DC. Centre for Research Expertise in Improved Disability Outcomes Western Research Institute, University Health Network.

26, Melbourne, Australia: Carer Support Forum

A one-day event to provide carers with the information, resources and skills to find balance in their lives. Saturday 26 May, Melbourne.
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=146999
The Support Forum, presented by Can-Survive, is a one-day event to provide carers with the information, resources and skills to find balance in their lives.

The forum will address all aspects of carer needs, and will include presentations on the psychological aspects of caring, respite, health and depression.

Attendees will also get to attend two of four interactive workshops, exploring legal and financial issues, a philosophical approach, peer support and humour.

26, Toronto, Canada: Making Connections: Oral language, reading and writing intervention

Ontario Branch of the International Dyslexia Association ONBIDA
http://www.idaontario.com/registration/07AnnualConference.doc
3rd Annual Conference
May 26, 2007
89 Chestnut Street, Toronto, Canada
INTRODUCTION
The ONBIDA is a scientific and educational nonprofit organization concerned with the specific language disability, dyslexia. The ONBIDA Annual Conference focuses on dyslexia and related traits or conditions. We are interested in a broad spectrum of research and practical presentations along these lines. The objective of our conference is to bring up-to-date information to our diverse audience, which includes educators, researchers, physicians, psychologists, social workers, speech-language pathologists, administrators, parents, persons with dyslexia, and others.

26-28, Kampala, Uganda: International Federation for Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus 18^th International Conference

IF is holding its 18th International Conference on Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus 26-28 May 2007 in Kampala, Uganda. The international Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus community will be present to learn more about preventing Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus as well as preventing secondary disabilities. Register at http://www.ifglobal.org/home.asp?lang=1&main=1by filling out this registration form and emailing it to info@ifglobal.org. The latest programme can be downloaded at http://www.ifglobal.org/uploads/documents/070314-draft_schedule_IF_Conference.pdf

27, Musgrave Park, South Brisbane, Australia: 2007 MS Brissie to the Bay Bike Ride

http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=147474
The MS Brissie to the Bay Bike Ride, Queensland’s largest charity bike ride is on again, and you are invited to jump on our bike and ride for MS!

Ride for fun, ride for fitness or ride to beat your personal best. Ride on your own or compete as a team. Whatever the reason and whatever distance, Ride for MS and support people living with Multiple Sclerosis.

Join over 3500 participants riding in varying distances: the 10 kilometre Riverside Ride, ideal for families with small children; the 25 kilometre ride; and the classic 50 kilometre Brissie to the Bay.

The MS Brissie to the Bay Bike Ride is a great social event for all! Enjoy free post-ride entertainment and relax after the ride in a great environment for participants, families, friends and colleagues, with great prizes up for grabs for all riders!

29, Parkville, Australia: Services and Support for Children with Disabilities

31, Sydney, Australia: Housing and support for people with disability

http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=142188
The conference aims to bring together the diverse groups involved in providing housing and support for people with disability, to look at innovative approaches and recent research.

It also aims to encourage a greater range of organisations to consider providing housing which works for people with disability.

State and local government organisations, community housing associations, housing developers, housing providers, people with a disability, advocates, carers, support services and researchers will all find the conference useful.

There will be a range of speakers including people with a disability who will reflect on what worked for them, plus housing researchers, experienced service providers and representatives of the Real Estate Industry and the Housing Industry Association.

When: Thursday 31 May, 9am to 5pm.

Where: Avillion Hotel, corner Pitt and Liverpool Streets, Sydney.

Cost: Per person - $200 for government agencies and private business, $135 for sole traders, $70 to $110 for community organisations (depending on size), $70 for individuals. These early bird rates apply until Thursday 3 May.

June

3 Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Walk Now For Autism 2007

http://autismspeaks.org/sponsoredevents/walk_calendar.php
Autism Speaks' Walk Now for Autism, the nation's largest grassroots autism walk program, is our signature fundraising and awareness event, taking place in communities across the United States, as well as in Canada and the United Kingdom. Powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, this successful grassroots fundraising effort not only generates vital funds for autism research but also raises awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for increased research funding to combat this complex disorder.
Toronto Sun, June 3 Toronto, ON, Canada
London TBD London, UK

4-5, Melbourne, Australia: From Advocacy to Policy - Communities Driving Change

http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=143804
Events and Activities - Communities in Control Conference 2007
Contributor: Andrew, Infoxchange Australia. (XP)
Source: Our Community
Posted: 28-03-2007

The theme of the 2007 Communities in Control Conference is "From Advocacy to Policy - Communities Driving Change".

The conference brings together more than 1500 people from right across the community sector along with government representatives and business leaders.

Some of the topics to be covered at the conference include creating social movements, methods for achieving change, ways community can engage with government, getting government to work to a community agenda and communities using the media to shape policy.

The conference's keynote speakers are:

Angela Glover Blackwell, founder and president of PolicyLink, an American research and action institute;
Bernard Salt, leading advisor and media commentator on consumer, cultural and demographic trends;
Justice Michael Kirby, justice of the High Court of Australia;
Eva Cox, academic, researcher, broadcaster and advocate for women's rights in Australia;
Jack Mundey, former union branch secretary and leader of the 'green bans' that halted the demolition or alteration of buildings that had significant cultural or environmental heritage.
When: Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 June, 9am to 5pm.

Where: Moonee Valley Racing Club, Members Gate 1, McPherson Street, Moonee Ponds.

On Sunday 3 June from 10am to 4.30pm, a pre-conference skills day will be held, to teach people the marketing, media and advocacy secrets necessary to find extra funds and support.

The skills day is recommended for community group and local government representatives.

Following the conference on Wednesday 6 June from 9.30am to midday is a youth in communities forum.

This is a session for 17 to 25-year-olds to consider the lessons learnt during the conference and plan pathways for local action in their communities.

5, Parkville, Australia: Transition - Moving on to Adult Services

6-8, Melbourne, Australia: ACE Disability Employment Network Conference 2007, Raising the Bar

The ACE Conference is an important annual event for the Disability Employment Network. As part of its ongoing commitment to industry development and growth, ACE aims to provide delegates with opportunities to think, question and respond to a range of critical industry issues in ways that are meaningful to their organisations, jobseekers with disability and the industry more broadly. Wednesday 6 to Friday 8 June, Melbourne.
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=145047
The ACE Conference is an important annual event for the Disability Employment Network. As part of its ongoing commitment to industry development and growth, ACE aims to provide delegates with opportunities to think, question and respond to a range of critical industry issues in ways that are meaningful to their organisations, jobseekers with disability and the industry more broadly.

The theme for this year’s conference is 'Raising the Bar', providing a focus on identifying and promoting good practice in each facet of DEN service delivery and practice.

Confirmed Speakers include:

The Hon Dr Sharman Stone, Federal Minister for Workforce Participation;
Senator Penny Wong, Shadow Minister for Workforce Participation;
Susan Scott-Parker, Chief Executive, Employers' Forum on Disability, UK;
Dan O’Brien, Rehabilitation Continuing Educational Program, University of North Texas, USA;
Dr Christopher Newell AM, University of Tasmania;
Dr Bill Saunders, Clinical Psychologist, Western Australia;
Donna Eiby, CEO and Founder of Bid Management International.

This year’s sessions will focus on the following:

Managing performance;
Managing and using systems and technology to best advantage;
Good practice through practical direct worker-focused sessions;
Employer demand strategies;
The review of the Case Based Funding model;
Disability employment policy – where does this need to go in order to 'raise the bar'?
Enhancing human resource practices;
The role of advocacy in enhancing employment outcomes for people with disability.

When: Wednesday 6 to Friday 8 June 2007.

Where: Grand Hyatt, 123 Collins Street, Melbourne.

7-8, Melbourne, Australia: Cultural Diversity in Ageing 2007 National Conference

Beyond every person is a long journey' - meeting the aged care needs of our culturally and linguistically diverse community. Melbourne, 7 and 8 June.
http://www.healthnews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=146696
By 2011, nearly 23 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over will be from a culturally and linguistically diverse background, with one in five people aged 80 and over from that background as well.
The Centre for Cultural Diversity in Ageing is holding its 2007 Conference in Melbourne on 7 and 8 June at the Sofitel hotel, to assist the aged care industry understand the needs of our culturally and linguistically diverse society. The conference will explore issues around language and communication, current and future service responsiveness, culturally inclusive management and policy development.
When: 7 and 8 June 2007.
Where: Hotel Sofitel, Melbourne.

8, London, U.K.: The Author of The Mental Capacity Act Manual introduces the new Mental Capacity Act

10-12, Vienna, Austria: 4^thInternational Conference on Children's Health and the Environment, Reducing Environmental Risks for our Children

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/articles/partner_events/986
The objectives of this conference are:

to provide an international forum for the latest research findings in pediatric environmental health;
to provide insight in the activities in the field of science and policy interface;
to define the relationship between environmental contaminants and children's health in the world;
to identify opportunities to minimize childhood exposure to environmental contaminants;
to build a multi-sectoral platform of knowledge at an international level;
to develop a greater awareness among health professionals about children's health and the environment;
to initiate policy review and future directions in research in the field of children's environmental health;
to renew old friendships and initiate new ones;
the conference should target the global one, risks from environmental hazards for children from all over the world.

Who should attend?
This cross-sectional conference is intended for health professionals, scientists (clinical, environmental epidemiological and community oriented) and policy makers who have a special interest in children's environmental health, as well as leaders from the private sector, non-governmental organisations and community organisations, and all levels of government.

13-15, Vienna, Austria: Intergovernmental Midterm Review of the Pan-European Environment and Health Process

http://www.healthandenvironment.org/articles/partner_events/972
In accordance with the Budapest declaration, which was adopted at the Fourth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health in Budapest 2004, an Intergovernmental Midterm Review (IMR) will be held in Vienna June 13-15, 2007.

The aim of the meeting is for countries to report back on the status of implementation of the Budapest Conference Declaration through the development of children’s environment and health action plans (CEHAPE). The progress achieved so far will be examined, and the challenges still faced by Member States will also be assessed. Another goal is to contribute to the development of the agenda of the Fifth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health that shall take place in 2009.

In parallel with the IMR, an NGO and youth meeting will be convened to ensure that all stakeholders can report back on the implementation of commitments and express their concerns and suggestions towards the implementation of CEHAPE.

Before the IMR, the 4th International Conference on Children’s Health and the Environment will also take place in Vienna June 10-12, 2007. The conference is organized by the International Network on Children’s Health, Environment and Safety (INCHES) and by the Private University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology (UMIT).

The conference shall be a world-wide platform dealing with health problems of children caused by important environmental influences. It aims at bringing together scientists, health professionals, researchers (clinical, environmental epidemiological and community oriented) and policy makers who have a special interest in children’s environmental health, as well as leaders from the private sector, non-governmental organizations, community organizations, and all levels of government.

The IMR is hosted by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management together with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Health and Women.

16, East Doncaster, Australia: TwYlight Disability Disco

TwYlight is in full force for 2007 and June is the time to get behind your footy team, dress in their colours and get down to DJ Daimo and special guest Chalkers! Saturday 16 June, East Doncaster.
http://www.disabilitynews.infoxchange.net.au/news/detail.chtml?filename_num=147959
With support from the Rotary Club of Doncaster and Doncaster Police, the June TwYlight Disability Disco is celebrating with footy fever! Come dressed in your favorite team colours and win a prize for your efforts!
DJ Daimo will be spinning out the hits and special guest Chalkers will perform live!
When: Saturday 16 June, 7pm to 10pm.
Where: Doncaster Senior Citizens Centre, corner Dehnert Street and Doncaster Road, East Doncaster.

16-19, Toronto, Ontario, Canada: The Festival of International Conferences on Caregiving, Disability, Aging and Technology (FICCDAT)

will bring together five important and different conferences all focused on enhancing the lives of seniors, persons with disabilities and their family caregivers.

Between June 16-19, 2007 rehabilitation, social and health services providers, government policy makers, researchers, family caregivers, students, seniors and persons with disabilities from around the world will gather in Toronto, Canada to explore issues facing aging populations, the implications for healthcare systems and service providers, the roles and responsibilities of family caregivers and policy, and how new research findings and technologies are leading new and practical solutions.

Experience the Festival! One of the unique features of FICCDAT is that, in addition to attending your desired conference, registrants will be entitled to attend one session per day in any other Festival conference.

You can also submit abstracts to as many conferences as you like knowing that, if they are accepted, you will be granted access for the purpose of your presentation to specific sessions in the specific conferences provided that you have registered for one of the Festival conferences.

Deadline: 06 Nov. 2006
For more information: http://www.ficdat.ca/
FICCDAT is the first event of this kind in the world. It brings together five international conferences related to disability and to aging under one roof. The five conferences are:
"              Growing Older with a Disability
"              Advances in Neurorehabilitation
"              2nd International Conference on Technology & Aging (ICTA)
"              Caregivers: Essential Partners in Care
"              30th CMBES Conference: Improving Medical Device Usability
Visit the FICCDAT Conference Website: htt

2007

May

6 - 12, Nairobi, Kenya: 4th Africa Forum World Blind Union