{"id":1985,"date":"2025-10-03T19:20:03","date_gmt":"2025-10-03T19:20:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/?page_id=1985"},"modified":"2026-08-18T15:51:20","modified_gmt":"2026-08-18T15:51:20","slug":"stefna","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/um-okkur\/stefna\/","title":{"rendered":"Self-Help Policy"},"content":{"rendered":"
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1. Current operations of Sjalfsbjorg<\/h4>

Role and activities<\/h5>

According to the bylaws of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg, the association's mission is to work for the full participation and equality of people with mobility impairments in Iceland, and where applicable, other people with disabilities, and to protect their rights and interests. It is stated that special efforts shall be made to ensure that people with mobility impairments, as well as others, have access to facilities, the environment, education, employment, and information.<\/p>

It is stated that the main tasks of the association are <\/strong><\/p>

  1. To educate, empower, and support people with disabilities regarding their status in society, in collaboration with the member associations of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg.<\/li>
  2. To influence the legislature, state and local governments, interest groups, and individuals on issues concerning the interests of people with disabilities.<\/li>
  3. To raise public awareness of the issues facing people with disabilities through publishing and promotional activities.<\/li>
  4. To collaborate with similar organizations, domestic and international.<\/li>
  5. To operate specialized healthcare activities in the field of rehabilitation within a special association, as defined by the Health Services Act No. 40\/2007, which provides interdisciplinary, individualized rehabilitation for individuals with mobility impairments and neurological and brain injuries, in accordance with the bylaws on operations established by the board of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg upon the recommendation of the board of the healthcare service company.<\/li><\/ol>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg is a national organization, or an association of member clubs from across the country. The organization is registered in the corporate register as a non-profit organization. Members of Self-Help's member associations are mobility-impaired individuals and other disabled and non-disabled individuals. Membership in Self-Help is open to associations based on the membership of mobility-impaired people that agree to abide by the association's bylaws.<\/p>

    The Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg homepage then discusses the organization's activities, stating that Kjarkur Rehabilitation is its largest and most extensive operating unit, but Kjarkur provides interdisciplinary, individualized rehabilitation for individuals with physical disabilities who are dealing with neurological and brain injuries. The goal of the rehabilitation is for individuals to be able to return to life after completing the program. Both day program and 24-hour residential rehabilitation are offered, and maintenance rehabilitation is also provided.<\/p>

    Self-Help also runs the Companion Fund, which is intended to make it easier for people with mobility impairments to travel. The fund provides applicants with a grant for companions on trips, and the grant is awarded once a year.<\/p>

    Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg also runs the Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg Knowledge Center, which provides disabled people, family members, businesses, and service providers with unbiased information on a peer-to-peer basis. These include the areas of rights, accessibility, employment and education, welfare, training, and leisure.<\/p>

    Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg annually publishes a magazine called Klifur.<\/p>

    Under the activities of the national association, it is finally specified that resolutions on various matters, which have been adopted by the national conventions, are issued.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    Division of labor between national associations and member associations<\/h5>

    According to the bylaws of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg, the member associations work on issues concerning people with disabilities in their respective areas. Otherwise, the associations have free rein over their internal affairs and operations, but must operate within the bylaws of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg, as well as the resolutions of its national conventions and board of directors. They must also participate in the joint projects of Sj\u00e1lfsbjargar.<\/p>

    At a strategy meeting in September 2024, which included representatives from the member associations, an effort was made to clarify the activities of the member associations and the division of labor between them and the national organization. Judging by that discussion, the activities of the member associations are varied and of different scopes. Therefore, it is up to the member associations how much they participate in the activities of the national association, in which areas, and what the division of labor will be.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    The situation<\/h5>

    MBA students in the Strategic Management course at the University of Iceland conducted an analysis of and for Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg in 2003. In conversations with participants in the organization's strategic planning process, it is believed that various points raised in the analysis are still relevant.\u00a0 This includes inconsistencies in defining Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg as a national association for the mobility-impaired that nevertheless works for all people with disabilities, and that its mission and bylaws do not align with the organization's actual operations, that the weight of the rehabilitation service in the association's activities is very significant, and likewise the importance of operating the property, as well as that there is varied activity among the member associations and its alignment with Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg's mission.<\/p>

    At the same time, it is the opinion of those who participated in the current strategic planning that Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg works on raising awareness of and including people with disabilities, or the projects that fall under items b and c in the chapter on the association's projects in its bylaws, but on the other hand, it is mentioned that Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg may and can do more there.\u00a0 It is also mentioned that the association provides education, various types of counseling, and improved accessibility, while the operation of the property takes up a great deal of time and energy.\u00a0<\/p>

    In light of this and based on the outcomes of a strategic planning meeting held with the board, the future committee, and representatives of member organizations in September 2024, the following are proposals for the role, vision, values, and operational components of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg's activities.\u00a0 Additionally, the goals and priorities for the association's work for the coming years are defined.\u00a0 The intention is not to fundamentally change the mission or operations, but rather to clarify, prioritize, and simplify the core of the work, with the goal of ensuring the organization's core activities are clear and thus better positioned for success by not spreading its efforts too thin.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/h4>

    2. Mission, Vision, Values, Activities<\/h4>

    Role<\/strong> Sj\u00e1lfsbjargar is working for the full participation and equality of individuals with disabilities* in Iceland.<\/p>

    *There are many causes of mobility impairment. It can be congenital or the result of illness, accidents, or aging. When talking about mobility impairment, it is not only referring to limited or no ability to walk, but also to weakness in the hands and arms, loss of these limbs, or impairment of the body's support system in general."\u201c<\/em><\/p>

    Self-Help's Vision<\/strong> that all individuals with disabilities have opportunities equal to others in all areas of life. \u00a0<\/p>

    Value<\/strong> Self-help is equality, recognition, and empathy.<\/p>

    The activities of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg are based on four duties<\/strong>:<\/p>

    1. Raising awareness of the social participation of people with disabilities.<\/li>
    2. Advocacy for people with disabilities.<\/li>
    3. To promote rehabilitation and good quality of life for individuals with disabilities.<\/li>
    4. Operations and internal work support and strengthen anticipated activities.<\/li><\/ol>

      \u00a0<\/p>

      \u00a0<\/p>

      3. Goals and Priorities<\/h4>

      It is proposed that the association work toward the following goals and focus on the following issues in the coming years.<\/p>

      \u00a0<\/p>

      Task 1:<\/h5>
      Raising Awareness of the Social Participation of People with Disabilities<\/strong><\/h6>

      Objective<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Emphasis<\/strong><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Equality in society<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 The community becomes aware that individuals with disabilities are a part of a diverse society.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 The community has a better understanding of mobility impairment and the diverse challenges that come with it.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Employers know that individuals with disabilities are good workers<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>

      \u00a0<\/h3>

      Task 2:<\/h5>
      Advocacy for people with disabilities<\/strong><\/h6>

      Objective<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Emphasis<\/strong><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00a0<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 Assistive technology legislation should level the playing field for individuals with mobility impairments with those without.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Necessary services are accessible, taking into account the specialized needs of individuals with disabilities.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Mobility for independent daily living<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00d6B\u00cd receives support to:<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Ensure that the pension is not lower than the defined minimum wage and that it keeps pace with wage development,<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The pension income of disabled individuals is unrelated to relatives and cohabiting partners<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Eliminate reassessment for permanent disability<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 State-backed student loan debt should be written off for individuals who suffer traumas leading to a significant, permanent impairment of their ability to work and thus earn an income, and they should also be given new loans for retraining for new careers.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Individuals with disabilities continue to enjoy rights in trade unions after an injury or accident that leads to the termination of their union membership.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Disabled individuals have a special pension supplement for the increased costs associated with their disability.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Special mortgage terms will be available for individuals with disabilities, taking into account lower income and\/or special housing needs.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Access to new facilities<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 Education on accessibility issues in design education will be strengthened<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Accessibility requirements will be included in operating and business licenses for permanent and temporary operations.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Strengthen the Self-Help representative on user councils, and make user group feedback an integral part of the planning and approval process.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      The role of municipal accessibility officers should be clarified and strengthened.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Sanctions will be applied to projects that do not comply with the law on universal design and accessibility requirements.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Accessibility to older structures <\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Strengthen legislation and guidance on accessibility for alterations to older buildings and structures.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Good access to road infrastructure, outdoor recreation areas, playgrounds, highland areas, and fitness facilities and equipment.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Accessibility will be a prerequisite for receiving funding from, for example, the Travelers' Construction Fund and the Elderly's Construction Fund.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Increase the access of individuals, institutions, and private entities to funds to improve accessibility in existing buildings.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      General rights to be equal to others<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Push for the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>

      \u00a0<\/h3>

      Task 3:<\/h5>
      Rehabilitation and good quality of life for individuals with disabilities<\/strong><\/h6>

      Objective<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Emphasis<\/strong><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Maximizing physical health<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 Physical education teachers and instructors are familiar with the specific needs of individuals with disabilities.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Encourage and provide information about good accessibility for individuals with disabilities at fitness centers<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Sports organizations offer exercise suitable for individuals with disabilities.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Education will be available for individuals with disabilities about the effects of their disability on the body, the necessity of exercise, as well as nutritional counseling on the intake and utilization of food.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Enjoy spiritual well-being<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 People with disabilities have access to services from psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation, etc., after formal healthcare services end.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Peer support will be available for individuals with disabilities.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 People with disabilities understand the potential impact of their disability on their emotions, sexuality, parenting, behavior, and self-identity.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Information and support will be available for those affected by trauma or illnesses leading to mobility impairment regarding their rights and the potential impact on their lives.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Active participants in the community<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Empowering young people with disabilities<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Analyze which daily activities require assistive devices and provide information about what assistive devices are available and how they are used.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      To assist and guide colleges and universities regarding accessibility issues to facilitate access for people with disabilities to education.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Grants for necessary workplace adaptations for individuals with disabilities will be available.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 Employment agencies must include in job advertisements information about the accessibility of the workplace.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Assistance is available from the Employment Service with job search and job applications<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>

      \u00a0<\/h3>

      Task 4:<\/h5>
      Operations and internal work support and strengthen anticipated activities.<\/strong><\/h6>

      Objective<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Emphasis<\/strong><\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Sustainable finance<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Self-Help's fundraising is fully utilized for the organization's advocacy work.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Rental income covers the operation and maintenance of the properties.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Grants will be awarded for specific advocacy projects.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Active and accessible human resources<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Increase the number of young people working in Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg and its member associations.\u00a0<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      The member associations will be active in the activities and projects of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Increase staff to support the association's advocacy work.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Suitable housing<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      The organization's facilities support its operations and finances.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      The association's premises will be fully utilized.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Separate the finances of Self-Help and housing operations<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Review the use of the facility based on current and future needs.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Land well used<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      \u00b7 Building rights will be sold on the part of the Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg lot not used by the organization, and the proceeds will be used for the maintenance of the organization's facilities and operations.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      \u00b7 The use of the land around the Self-Help property will not have a negative impact on the organization's operations.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Procedures and organization support maximizing the use of resources.<\/strong><\/p><\/td>

      Clarify the purpose, roles, and responsibilities of member organizations, including in the organization's operations.<\/p><\/td><\/tr>

      Establish issue or project groups within the national organization.<\/p><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>

      \u00a0<\/h2>

      4. Division of Labor between Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg and Member Organizations<\/h4>

      When it comes to carrying out the work set forth here, it is the role of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg to:<\/p>

      1. Organize the association's activities with the goal of prioritizing what is most important, while also ensuring the greatest possible achievement, in accordance with the association's capacity at any given time.<\/li>
      2. At the annual meeting each year, propose the priorities for the upcoming year's work, as well as the procedures to be used. This proposal then covers what work the member associations will undertake and in what manner.<\/li>
      3. Lead the work and monitor the results achieved.<\/li>
      4. Activate the member associations and their members in the work as needed.<\/li>
      5. Support the member associations and their members who are involved in the work.<\/li><\/ol>

        \u00a0<\/p>

        The role of the member associations is then to:<\/p>

        1. Participate in the work of Sj\u00e1lfsbj\u00f6rg, either at the national level or by carrying it out in one's own community.<\/li>
        2. To work together to increase the visibility of the priorities for people with disabilities that this policy sets forth.<\/li><\/ol>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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          1. N\u00faverandi starfsemi Sj\u00e1lfsbjargar Hlutverk og starfsemi Samkv\u00e6mt l\u00f6gum Sj\u00e1lfsbjargar er hlutverk f\u00e9lagsins a\u00f0 vinna a\u00f0 fullkominni \u00fe\u00e1ttt\u00f6ku og jafnr\u00e9tti hreyfihamla\u00f0s f\u00f3lks \u00e1 \u00cdslandi og eftir atvikum annarra fatla\u00f0ra og […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"parent":86,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_theme","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1985","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1985","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1985"}],"version-history":[{"count":18,"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1985\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14740,"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1985\/revisions\/14740"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/86"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sjalfsbjorg.is\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1985"}],"curies":[{"name":"word per minute","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}