Disability Rights

Every person involved in Minerva is treated as an individual, therefore everyone has a unique individual structured plan. This is written with the centre manager, the individual involved, and any person with whom the client feels comfortable discussing it with. The only others whom would be told of the care plan would be the clients tutor and support person with the individual’s consent. If any external bodies, for any reason, wished to view the care plan, they would need to obtain permission from the client, the centre manager, and at least two (2) Committee members. This would be discussed at the next committee meeting. All the individuals are treated as independent artists, this allows them the freedom to express themselves in a creative fashion. It is up to the individual how this creative expression takes form, without any need for justification. It is up to each individual client how much, or how little information is given. This includes cultural background, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, whether they have any disability, and what form any potential disability they might have may take.

Minerva believes that everyone is unique, with their own strengths and beliefs. We aim to respect everyone as an individual while helping them to become independent artists in their own right. The people who need to know about a student’s individual needs will be given appropriate information and training. This is done discretely as to allow the student to have the required support without everyone being aware of their particular needs. This is done with the appropriate care worker. We strive to be flexible so as to cater to as many needs as possible.

Minerva aims to help with any inequalities or barriers that may affect people with disabilities or without disabilities. We do this through exhibiting artwork. This allows the wider community to see how people can show hidden meanings through art. It allows the community to see the students as individuals. Minerva also runs market stalls. This allows the students to make and sell art products with help and guidance from the centre, and any support required is given to the students to achieve this goal.

Minerva aims to stop any prejudices or misconceptions about people with disabilities or health conditions through the artwork produced.

If student or volunteer feels that they have been discriminated against due to disability, race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation they should inform the studio tutor and an appointment will be made after studio hours to discuss this with people concerned. They may bring someone to this meeting if they feel that it is needed. It would be the same day that the complaint was made that the discussion would be held. If an understanding is not reached, the situation would be referred to the centre manager, who will ask for written accounts of the meeting. If the centre manager cannot resolve this issue, a meeting of the committee of trustees will be called to which the relevant parties will be invited. As the trustees have a strict formula which will help them to resolve the issue or change the policy.