INDEPENDENT LIVING has been variously described as a social movement, a revolution in public services and as having the power vastly to improve the lives of disabled and older people. It has entered government policy, but it’s more of a philosophy. So just what is all the fuss about?

It’s simple. Everyone should have the right to live their lives the way they want, as far as possible. “The support they need might be coping with anxiety or getting dressed,” says Professor Peter Beresford, a member of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s independent living committee.

Society needs you. Living independently allows people to play a greater role at work and in their community. “If we regard people as passive recipients we risk ignoring the huge contribution that they can make,” says John Dixon, a member of the expert panel which advised the Government on its Independent Living Strategy.

Free to choose. Individuals should choose what’s best for them. “Things like choosing where you live, who gives you support,” says Andy Rickell, the executive director of Scope. “[A person] might need support to make the choice, but that doesn’t mean that it should be taken from them.”

Not lonely living. Being independent “doesn’t mean leaving people on their own”, Rickell says.

All things equal. No one should be denied access, whether it’s to education, information or getting on an aircraft. “We all aspire to live our lives as part of the mainstream,” Dixon says.

Breaking barriers. Professor Beresford sees similarities with tackling racism and sexism. “It’s an antidiscrimination movement,” he says.

Involvement. Disabled people’s organisations are fundamental to achieving independent living, Rickell says. “They [are] the best providers of certain elements of the jigsaw, particularly peer support, advocacy, information and advice.”

Change not rest. “This is one of the truly groundbreaking ideas of modern social policy,” Professor Beresford says. Dixon describes it as “a new deal between the State and citizens”.

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