IDEA is a unique international network of experienced disabled researchers, trainers and consultants from the North and South, all with close links to disabled people’s organisations, who offer a variety of professional services on development cooperation.

IDEA was set up in response to an increasing commitment of NGOs and development agencies to bring disability into mainstream programmes.

IDEA’s inclusive approach is based on the guiding principles of the international disability movement, particularly user-led change. We translate these into professional practices enabling our clients to develop an informed and practical disability-equality focus in their work.

IDEA operates on the basis of international cooperative working, but believes that most development research or interventions are best carried out by consultants who live in the South. This leads to well-informed outputs and also helps to supports local research expertise, a key component for sustainable development.

IDEA works within a rights-based approach to development

IDEA is a signatory to Equalise It! A Manifesto for Disability Equality in Development Cooperation.

IDEA is an independent organisation of disabled people based at the Social Action Research Centre in the Overseas Development Group at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.