Abstract
This presentation looks at both change over time with a particular focus on evidence related to the closure of institutions and the development of alternative arrangements in the community, as well as broader actions to reform legislation and public services. To some extent, the paper also reflects the impact of European Union strategy and actions including the European structural and investment funds, on advancing the right to live independently and to be included in the community.
Using the definition set out in the introduction, available data for each country was collated for children and adults with disabilities, children without disabilities and people with mental health problems. Even where data were available, it wasn't always possible to distinguish different groups or ages.
Also, data was not always very clear as to the nature of services included under the term "residential care". However, in general very few countries provided residential services for 6 or fewer people.