Ensuring meaningful access to easy-to-read information : a case study

Abstract

Background: This article presents research on the use of easy-to-read documents to ensure meaningful access to information for persons with intellectual disability. The re-search questions focus on the factors that influence the use of easy-to-read documents and what needs to be considered to ensure that these documents are used meaningfully.

Materials and Methods: A case study was carried out in a day centre for persons with intellectual disability in Malta, using a focus group, an interview and an observation session as research tools. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, in conjunction with the social model of disability and an adapted version of Bronfenbrenner's ecosystem model.

Results: The research found that the effectiveness of easy-to-read documents is contingent on a multiplicity of factors which interact with one another.

Conclusion: Easy-to-read forms can become more meaningful if these factors are attended to within the wider context.