MoMs Project Kick-Off Meeting: Building a More Inclusive Society

On 11 January 2024, the partners of the MoMs project met at the historic Istituto dei Sordi di Torino for an important face-to-face meeting. Although the project was already underway, this meeting was crucial to foster collaboration and facilitate decision-making. The MoMs project aims to address and break down persistent prejudices related to disability, especially in the areas of affection, sexuality and parenthood. This initiative is an important step towards creating a more inclusive society in which women with disabilities are encouraged and supported in their desire for autonomy and motherhood.

The meeting began with a warm welcome from the hosts at the Istituto dei Sordi di Torino. Each partner organisation presented their mission and role within the project, laying the foundation for a collaborative and productive meeting. Discussions centred on several key areas that are critical to the success of the project.

The consortium focused on the development of the research book that will summarise the legal frameworks provided by each partner. The next phase involves conducting focus groups, producing national reports and summarising the findings.

The partners also reviewed the design of the project website, which will be important for disseminating information and engaging with the wider public. This digital platform promises to be both informative and user-friendly.

Another important topic was the development of a self-assessment tool for professionals. This tool will help to assess the accessibility and information provided by professionals. The partners are working together to ensure that the tool meets the highest standards.

In addition, the partners plan to set up an online forum for people with disabilities. This forum, which could potentially take the form of a Facebook group linked directly to the project website, will provide a space for community building and support.

Dissemination is a key component of the MoMs project. The partners discussed a comprehensive dissemination strategy that will see the production of four newsletters, each published after key project milestones, as well as bi-annual dissemination reports to keep all stakeholders informed and engaged.

Quality assurance was another important topic addressed during the meeting. The partners reviewed the quality plan and the quality assessment plan to ensure that all project activities are carried out with the utmost rigour and attention to detail.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on future meetings, with the consortium proposing dates for meetings in Seville in October 2024. These meetings will provide opportunities for further collaboration and continuation of the important work of the project.

The face-to-face meeting at the Istituto dei Sordi di Torino provided a strong and enthusiastic foundation for the MoMs project. With clear objectives, a spirit of collaboration and a commitment to inclusion, the project is able to make significant progress in supporting women with disabilities. By promoting their rights and an inclusive society, MoMs will help ensure that all women, regardless of their abilities, can lead fulfilling and self-determined lives.