Focus Groups with Women with Disabilities and Professionals - Cyprus

In February 2024, our partners in Cyprus hosted two insightful focus groups to better understand the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities. These discussions aimed to shed light on their daily experiences, particularly in relation to motherhood, sexuality, and access to healthcare, and to identify areas where societal improvements are needed.

Focus group with women with disabilities 

Our focus group with women with disabilities highlighted the multifaceted challenges they face. The participants unanimously expressed that society still has a long way to go to recognise the abilities and rights of women with disabilities. They emphasised the need for a fairer society in which they are not seen as an obstacle or a burden, but as women who are able to care, love, be independent and make informed decisions about their lives and motherhood.

Focus group with professionals 

The focus group with professionals who work with women with disabilities provided valuable insights. These experts pointed out the difficulties in accessing medical centres and specialised doctors, including gynaecologists, for women with disabilities. They also pointed out that medical professionals' awareness and understanding of these issues is limited. It is clear that significant efforts are needed to ensure that women with disabilities receive accessible healthcare and are included in a way that respects and addresses their needs.

Through these focus groups, our project aims to raise awareness and advocate for the changes needed to create a more inclusive and supportive society for women with disabilities.