In the theoretical introduction of the thesis, I present the terminology that includes the concept of handicap and the naming of people with disabilities, compare different definitions of handicap, describe the concept of deinstitutionalization and independent living. After that, I present personal assistance as an innovative form of assistance and fundamental human right. In this context, I highlight the key actors of personal assistance. This is where I place the user, personal assistant and personal assistance contractor. I continue with the presentation of the legislation on personal assistance and I conclude with a description of the current situation in the field of personal assistance in Slovenia.
The empirical part of the thesis consists of an analysis of interviews I conducted with ten personal assistants employed by registered personal assistance contractors in and around Ljubljana. I researched their usual work day, the moments that make them happy and the challenges they face during their work, the relationship of personal assistants with their users and their satisfaction with the contractors.
The conclusion of the research is that personal assistants are mostly very satisfied with their work and cooperation with contractors. In the field of legislation and support to assistants by contractors in the form of introductory trainings and supervision, as in some other areas, I have found that they wish for changes.
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