French awards for initiatives on disability call for European entries

The French Federation of Associations for Disabled Youths and Adults (APAJH) is appealing to local governments, businesses, associations and schools across Europe to participate in its third annual Trophies contest.

The purpose of the competition is "to inform public opinion by recognising the value of initiatives that make it possible for the disabled to participate in social, cultural and professional life".

"We are really trying to heighten awareness of the problems of the disabled in other European countries," said Alida Sithimolada, a spokeswoman for the competition. The federation is particularly eager to encourage administrations, companies and schools from outside France - including Ireland - to apply.

Five trophies will be awarded to French contestants for: ensuring the right to education and culture; providing access to public services or access within a town or city; and professional integration. French law requires that 6 per cent of the workforce comprise people with disabilities in all businesses employing more than 20 people.

In the past, finalists included a theatre troupe that recruited as many people with disabilities as those without, and businesses that installed special equipment to improve working conditions for people with disabilities.

Non-French Europeans are eligible for the Trophy for European achievement. Last year, the federation received only one application from outside France, from the Il Nodo social co-operative in Follonica, Italy. One-third of Il Nodo's 51 employees are disadvantaged people such as single mothers. The group seeks to rehabilitate its employees while helping the people with disabilities. Il Nodo won last year's European achievement award for providing access to beaches for people with disabilities.

The crystal trophies are engraved with a daisy, the symbol of APAJH. They will be presented at a gala evening on March 16th, 2007 at the Palais des Congrès in Paris, before an audience of 4,000. Celebrities at last year's gala included film director Zabou Breitman, actress Isabelle Carré and singers Cesaria Evora and Henri Salvador.

Applications will be judged according to the following criteria: impact on the daily life of people with disabilities; the example set for others; time invested and long-term commitment. APAJH is financed by members' dues and the French government. It has received the support of Unesco in the past, and comprises 593 centres for people with disabilities across France.

Application forms can be downloaded on www.apajh.org and may be filled out in English. The deadline is January 5th, 2007. Additional information can be obtained from the APAJH at tel: 00 331 55395600 or by e-mail: federationapajh@wanadoo.fr or communication@apajh.assoc.fr.