Towards a contribution paradigm: photovoice uncovering the contribution of people with intellectual disability.

Abstract\nPoints of interestSociety is progressing to a paradigm where the valued contributions of people with intellectual disability are being recognised and supported. However, existing assessment tools fail to measure contribution as a key factor in achieving wellbeing and a valued life. To form the conceptual basis for assessment development, we elicited what constitutes contribution from the perspective of people with intellectual disability. Using photovoice and grounded theory, eleven artists with intellectual disability co-produced the Contribution Gallery. Activities associated with three workshops and the gallery opening night were videorecorded for analysis. Findings suggest people with intellectual disability make valued contributions to their family and friends, their community, our society and planet. Making these contributions give meaning and enhance wellbeing, but the value of the contributions to self and others are often unrecognised. This work challenges deficit-based paradigms and is pivotal in debates regarding assessment and support provision for people with disability.Society is changing. People with intellectual disability are getting more support. People with intellectual disability are being valued.People with intellectual disability make important contributions to society. No assessment tool has been made that measures these contributions.We used photovoice to understand what artists with intellectual disability think about contribution. Together we made the Contribution Gallery.We found that people with intellectual disability make valued contributions to their family and friends, their community, our society and planet. Making these contributions made people feel good.We have started making a contribution assessment tool. What artists with intellectual disability told us helps to design the assessment tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]