Living Independently in Spain: Barriers and Supports from the Views of People with Intellectual Disabilities

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognises the right to independent living. Given the lack of studies carried out in Spain, the aim of this research is to explore the barriers and supports that people with intellectual disability (ID) themselves believe affect their exercising of this right. To this end, an in-depth individual interview was designed and administered to 22 people with ID following various personal pathways. Thematic data analysis was conducted. According to the results, people with ID have highlighted the barriers and supports in different areas of their lives that affect their opportunities to exercise control over their lives, live and participate in ordinary and inclusive spaces within the community. In conclusion, this study helps to identify areas for improvement that are key to exercise the right to independent living.