Introduction

Darlington Association on Disability was established in 1986 as a voluntary and charitable organisation led by disabled people. It exists to promote independence and choice, and supports disabled people and carers through the provision of services, support and information and by tackling issues locally and nationally. DAD promotes the social model of disability, and as part of that remit is actively involved in promoting disability equality and awareness of the Disability Discrimination Act.

DAD acts as a focal point for consultation with disabled people and carers. It also manages a range of services / projects to support its aims.

2009 Annual General Meeting

Mayor meeting DAD members

(Cllr Jim Ruck and DAD Chief Executive Lauren Robinson chatting to DAD members)

This year's DAD Annual Event took place on Thursday 19th November in the Dolphin Centre and was opened by the Mayor of Darlington, Councillor Jim Ruck. It was well attended and there was a variety of information stands set up from various organisations for people to browse including stands from each of DAD's projects.

The first guest speaker was Vidar Hjardeng, Equalities Lead of ITV who presented discussion on diversity in the media. The second, Mark Humble, Head of Transformation at Darlington Borough Council presented the current position of personalisation and transformation.

After lunch the Annual Meeting took place including a speech from Chair, Gordon Pybus and Chief Executive Lauren Robinson who said "DAD is a user led organisation which is critical to the transformation of Social Care. We have raised awareness of the services we provide for 20 years. DAD can improve and we want to be inclusive as possible, across all groups. DAD is involved in all work streams of the personalisation agenda, please raise awareness of DAD. We look forward to another successful year ahead. Thank you for all of your support."

The Annual Report for 2009, together with Word and PDF versions, has been added to the Annual Reports page.

DAD Newsletter

The October issue of the DAD Newsletter "Break Through!" is now accessible online and has been included in the Newsletter section.

Direct Payments Vacancies

There are many posts available to work in Darlington as a Personal Assistant or Support Worker employed by a disabled person or carer using a Direct Payment. A new, separate page giving details of all the current posts is now on-line. These vacancies were last updated on 2nd January 2010.

Make a Donation to DAD

DAD has a page on the JustGiving website which allows secure online donations to be made directly to DAD. Alternatively, donations can be made by calling into any of DAD's offices.

Help DAD Reduce Costs

If you have any old mobile phones or empty printer cartridges, DAD has a collection point in the reception area of Head Office and you will be helping to raise money to support DAD.

Mission Statement

Darlington Association on Disability is an organisation led by disabled people, which exists to promote independence and choice.

DAD supports disabled people and carers through the provision of services, support and information and by tackling issues affecting disabled people both locally and nationally.