COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 
COM(91) 350 final 
Brussels, 23 October 1991 
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Proposal for a 
COUNCIL DECISION 
establishing a third Community action programme to assist 
disabled people (HELIOS II (1992-96)) 
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EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM 
THIRD COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAMME 
FOR DISABLED PEOPLE 
- HELIOS II* - (1992-96) 
A. REVIEW OF COMMUNITY MEASURES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE 
1. A multidimensional approach 
With some thirty million nationals affected by physical» sensory, 
mental or psychological disabilities (about 10% of the population), 
the European Community is working towards the economic and social 
integration of disabled people as part of the general drive to 
raise the standard of living of all its citizens. 
The Member States first signalled their commitment in this field 
with the establishment of a Social Action Programme adopted by the 
Council in 1974<1). In view of the growing needs of disabled 
people, the Commission launched a first Community action programme 
in 1983. 
Whereas the Community's contribution to national efforts initially 
focused on the technical exchange of experiences, it subsequently 
turned its attention to devising a comprehensive, consistent 
policy, entailing the preparation of various Community instruments 
in favour of disabled people. Thus, the Council adopted a 
Recommendation in 1986(2), concerning the employment of disabled 
people, and a programme of European collaboration on the 
integration of handicapped children into ordinary schools was 
introduced in 1987(3). 
A further step was taken in 1988, with the adoption by the Council 
of the second Community action programme covering the period 1988-
1991(4), which was designated HELIOS (Handicapped People in the 
European community Living Independently in an Open Society). Its 
purpose was to extend and build on the activities of the previous 
programme, with special emphasis on helping disabled people to live 
more independently. A framework, basis and criteria were thus laid 
down for the development, at Community level, of a comprehensive, 
consistent policy, in the form of practical, concrete proposals in 
various key sectors. 
Over the last few years, various provisions have been adopted in 
different fields relating to disabled people. 
* HELIOS: Handicapped people in the European community Living 
Independently in an Open Society 
(1) 0J No C 13, 12.2.1974, p. 1. 
(2) 0J No L 225, 12.8.1986, p. 43. 
(3) 0J No C 211, 8.8.1987, p. 1. 
(4) 0J No L 104, 23.4.1988, p. 38. 
2) 
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On the basis of a Commission report, the Council gave its 
conclusions in 1989(5) on the employment of disabled people, with 
a view to ensuring equal opportunities in access to vocational 
training and employment by encouraging the participation of all the 
parties involved. 
The Community Charter of Fundamental Social Rights of workers 
contains a section on disabled people. 
With a view to implementing the Charter, the Commission drew up an 
action programme and submitted to the Council a proposal for a 
Directive on the mobility and transport of persons with reduced 
mobility*6). Mobility and the provision of transport to the place 
of work are an integral part of the vocational integration and 
individual development of disabled people. 
In 1990, the Council of Ministers adopted a Resolution concerning 
the integration of children and young people with disabilities into 
ordinary systems of education*7). 
2. Other Community programmes, activities and initiatives for disabled 
peopIe 
The Commission has, over recent years, launched a range of 
programmes, activities and initiatives with a view to meeting the 
specific needs of disabled people. 
A general overview of these activities is set out in Annex a 
(p. 14). 
B. OBJECTIVES AND PROVISIONAL REPORT ON THE HELIOS I PROGRAMME 
The aims of the HELIOS I action programme were: 
to identify innovatory approaches and measures with a view to 
improved convergence and coordination of measures taken in the 
Member States for disabled people, 
to add a Community element in respect of the integration of 
disabled people through an exchange of information and 
exper ience, 
to improve participation at Community level on the part of 
disabled people and their organisations. 
(5) 0J No C 173, 8.7.1989, p. 1. 
(6) C0M(90) 588 final. 
(7) 0J No C 162, 3.7.1990, p. 2. 
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In accordance with the Council Decision of 18 April 1988 on the 
establishment of the HELIOS I action programme, the Commission 
presented an interim report on 6 December 1990 on the 
implementation and the results of HELIOS I. The final report wit! 
be submitted by 1 July 1992 to the European Parliament, the Council 
and the Economic and Social Committee. 
A report on work undertaken under HELIOS I Is set out in Ânrm ^ 
(p. 19). 
C. PROGRAMME AND GOALS, HELIOS II (1992-96) 
1. Preparation of the proposal 
This proposal is based on: 
extensive consultation with the persons, circles: a*vl 
authorities directly concerned. Over 100 suggestions (about 250 
pages) were received by the Commission, mainly from disabled 
individuals and organisations for disabled people, scisniifk 
specialists and persons working on a professional and voluntary 
basis on rehabilitation and other local, regional and n%*Umzt 
activities; 
numerous consultations on intermediate projects discussed t 
meetings of the Advisory Committee, the Liaison Group, °v *<\ ; 
Dialogue Group and the Group on integration in schools; 
analysis of positive elements emerging from eva h^ ' < f 
activities under earlier programmes. 
This broad consultation demonstrated the considerable <i6$r-*~ -
interest on the part of Member States' rep ese^»-w;.-
rehabilitation professionals and particularly vis." K 
individuals and organisations representing them, in taking ? 
active part in the definition of Joint objectives for ^ 
development of an overall strategy for the integration of 
disabled people. 
2. Objectives of HELIOS II 
With a view to stimulating a comprehensive, consistent and 
coordinated policy for the full integration of disabled people, 
HELIOS II set out to devise common approaches in a wide variety of 
fields such as prevention and early assistance, functional 
rehabilitation, integration in the education system, continuing 
training, vocational guidance and training, employment, new 
technologies, technical aids and databases, independent living, 
access to cultural, creative, sports, leisure and tourism 
activities, family life, the elderly, and the social, economic and 
legal protection of disabled people. 
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Compared with HELIOS I, the proposal for HELIOS II has been 
extended to cover prevention and early assistance, functional 
rehabilitation, integration in nursery schools and further 
education, continuing training, and access to creative, sports and 
tour ism act ivit les. 
In HELIOS II, the attention devoted to new technologies will be 
intensified in all fields, particularly in respect of the 
adaptation of workplaces, and technologies which can help overcome 
the isolation of disabled people and which further the educational 
process. 
HELIOS II also makes provision for extending the organisation of 
competitions and the award of prizes in such fields as employment 
and vocational training, school integration, creative activities, 
sport and tourism, all in close collaboration with the media. 
The activities envisaged for the HELIOS II programme are thus 
geared to interaction, a common approach and coordination, which 
are seen as essential for consolidating the benefits of the 
programme in all directions and achieving the fullest possible 
integration, integration is in fact perceived as a whole and may 
not be regarded as achieved if disabled people are unable to profit 
from each of its constituent elements. Consequently, integration 
in the field of education is, especially and simultaneously, the 
precursor of vocational and economic integration and is a factor in 
individual fulfilment, construed as the capacity to enter into all 
forms of activity and areas of social life. HELIOS II will 
therefore promote a greater Joint effort and increased dynamic 
cooperation between all its participants, and its effects should be 
enhanced by the back-up provided by other related Community 
programmes (particularly HORIZON and TIDE). 
3. Measures 
In addition to the promotion and, where appropriate, establishment 
of policy guidelines for the Commission at Community level in 
respect of integration problems faced by disabled people, three 
interactive aspects will be pursued, intensified and restructured 
under HELIOS I I: 
1) Technical cooperation 
Implementation of positive measures focusing on the needs of 
disabled people at local level, through technical cooperation 
developed by the Community networks and representative European 
non-governmental organisations, with the aim of exchanging 
information and sharing innovative and effective experiences 
among all those involved at European level. 
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2) HANDYNET information and documentation 
Joint development of an extended information and 
documentation system covering every aspect of the 
coordinated rehabilitation and integration process, for the 
benefit of disabled people and all those involved in this 
process. 
3) Consultation 
Establishment of structures. 
The proposal is to intensify the action undertaken on 
behalf of disabled people, emphasising such aspects as 
prevention, disabled women, carers, elderly disabled 
people, training those involved and increasing the 
awareness of the general public and specific target groups. 
Promoting the integration of disabled people requires 
action at several levels and cuts across the entire social 
spectrum. The commitment to tackling the problems of 
disabled people has been clearly expressed on several 
occasions and there is no doubt that the Community wishes 
to continue and consolidate the measures taken. 
3.1. Technical cooperation 
Three activities are proposed under the heading of technical 
coopérât ion: 
networks of innovative Local Integration and Exchange 
Activities (A.I.L.E.)<8) focusing on functional 
rehabilitation, integration in the fields of education and 
training, vocational training and employment, and social 
intégrât ion; 
cooperation at several levels with the representative 
European non-governmental organisations (EURAS)^8), 
responsible for organising annual Innovative theme-based 
Rehabilitation Activities (A.I.R.)<8) in all areas 
connected with the integration of disabled people; 
public awareness-raising through a programme of awards 
given for pilot projects on aspects of employment, 
independent living, technical aids and access to 
creativity, tourism and leisure. 
(8) The acronyms A.I.L.E., A.I.R. (which are pronounced phonetically [" 
L"], [" RM3) and EURAS are the same in all the Community languages 
and are used as singular and plural. 
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3.1.1. Community networks of innovative Local Integration and 
exchange Activities (A.I.L.E.) 
The innovative, local nature of specific activities should be 
retained, albeit changing the names given to the networks in 
order to extend the scope beyond pilot projects and to 
emphasise the innovative nature and the final objective of 
integration in respect of all the projects selected. Members of 
the Community networks must satisfy strict criteria for 
participation and must achieve precise, specific results with 
regard to annual themes submitted to them in liaison with the 
Member States. The greater effectiveness called for is a 
consequence of the need to coordinate a consistent, 
comprehensive Community policy, in which the Commission is 
assisted by outside experts. The A.I.L.E. Community networks 
will be required to intensify their cooperation with the 
HANDYNET system and the European non-governmental organisations 
(EURAS). 
The Community networks are obliged not only to encourage the 
most effective action but also to transfer the best experiences 
and practices, taking account of the earliness, overall 
applicability, continuity and diversity of individual measures. 
This increased assessment of activities should help to 
consolidate the spin-offs from HELIOS II for the benefit of 
disabled people and their relatives. 
The programme of activities of these networks comprises study 
visits, training courses, seminars, conferences and other 
Europe-wide Joint activities, covering the following areas: 
HELIOS II will set up a new Community network dealing 
specifically with the functional aspects of rehabilitation. 
The specialised nature and precise remit of this network 
will give a boost to the full range of medical practices 
involved in the general integration of disabled people by 
way of a continuing and consistent rehabilitation process. 
The network dealing with integration in the educational 
field will continue its work under HELIOS II to bring out 
the full potential of disabled children and to respond to 
the expectations of their parents and to the needs of 
disabled adults. The aim here is to achieve the maximum 
degree of integration into mainstream educational systems. 
Where HELIOS I concentrated on primary and secondary 
education, HELIOS II will continue the work and extend it 
to nursery schools, higher education and continuing 
training. 
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In the field of economic and vocational integration, HELIOS 
I sought to promote vocational training and facilitate 
employment in a normal working environment, without however 
neglecting provisions to ease the transition to the 
ordinary working environment. HELIOS II will continue this 
work and extend it to sheltered employment, to which end an 
awareness campaign will be mounted among workers, firms and 
employers. 
The network dealing with independent living, which was 
already in existence at the time of HELIOS I, will be 
stepped up for HELIOS II to cover the urban environment, 
housing, accessibility to public buildings, new 
technologies and domestic aids, all features which are 
essential to enable disabled people to live as independent 
a life as possible. Independent living is also one of the 
main areas for influencing public opinion and certain 
target groups (local decision-makers or managers, 
architects, etc.). The scope will be extended to elderly 
disabled people and to the families of disabled people. 
3.1.2. Contribution towards European cooperation with Europe-
wide representative non-governmental organizations. 
Cooperation with European disabled people is arranged through 
the intermediary of European non-governmental organisations 
(EURAS) representing various types of disability or specific 
integration issues in the Member States. 
Such cooperation will be carried out in the context of 
Innovative theme-based Rehabilitation Activities (A.I.R.). 
These will entail exchanging information, experiences and 
efficient practices in all the fields relating to the 
integration of disabled people, i.e. prevention and early 
assistance, functional rehabilitation, integration in the 
fields of education and training, vocational training and 
employment, new technologies, technical aids and data bases, 
independent living, access to cultural activities, creativity, 
sports, leisure and tourism, families and the elderly, and 
social, economic and legal protection. These Innovative 
Rehabilitation Activities (A.I.R.) reflect the activities 
undertaken within the A.I.L.E. Community networks and HANDYNET, 
and are to be carried out by means of conferences, seminars, 
study visits, training courses and other Europe-wide Joint 
activities, on the basis of annual themes determined by the 
Commission in liaison with the European non-governmental 
organisations (EURAS). Setting annual themes will help the NGOs 
(EURAS) to make better use of their expertise. It is essential 
to intensify cooperation between them and the Community 
A.I.L.E. and HANDYNET system networks. 
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3.1.3. Fostering public awareness 
HELIOS II will attach much more importance to raising public 
awareness and disseminating information on the problems of 
integrating disabled people, addressing the programme partners 
and the general public. 
To this end, competitions will continue to be organized and 
prizes awarded in the field of independent living, the scope 
being extended to include employment, technical aids and access 
to creativity, tourism and leisure activities. Priority will be 
given to media activities aimed at increasing the awareness of 
the general public and specific target groups as to the 
potential for integrating disabled people. 
Arrangements for the dissemination of information under HELIOS 
I will be intensified at Community level and brought in at 
national level. 
3.2. HANDYNET information and document ion system 
HANDYNET Is a multiIingual European computerized information 
system designed to provide information to disabled people on a 
variety of matters, including their specific needs. 
HANDYNET is a European prototype and is unique by dint of its 
use of nine languages-, it has been developed step-by-step, and 
became operational in 1990 thanks to the collaborative effort 
of specialists from all countries. 
In HELIOS I, HANDYNET was concerned solely with technical aids 
for those with a motor, visual or communication disability, 
plus educational software. 
Under HELIOS II, it will be extended to vocational training and 
employment, accessibility and transport, sports, leisure, 
tourism and creative activities. 
The system can be used in three ways: as a database, an 
electronic mail system and as an electronic Journal. 
HANDYNET plays an innovative and precursor role in respect of 
European networks and mult 11inguism, and has major social, 
economic and scientific implications. 
At the social level, it enables disabled people to choose, in 
their own language, what is the most appropriate and least 
expensive technical aid by comparing the range of products on 
the market. It also enables politicians, administrators and 
social workers to acquire the kind of information they need for 
policy purposes. 
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In economic terms, the information available in the system 
serves to break down barriers and make the market more 
transparent. This should remove barriers between the Member 
States, improve quality and reduce costs thanks to sharper 
competition, and the increased play of supply and demand should 
help the market to develop. 
At the scientific level, being able to compare products and 
their special features will generate a research effort which 
should help develop the use of new technologies in improving 
technical aids. 
3.2.1. Database 
As requested by the Council in its Decision of 18 December 
1989, the HANDYNET system became operational in the first half 
of 1990. 
The system hinges on national data collection centres 
designated by the Member States to constitute a European 
collection and information network. 
The national centres collect information on technical aids 
available in their particular Member State and forward it in 
their cvn language to a central HANDYNET coordinating unit, 
which then processes the data to make them available in the 
nine Community languages. 
These data relate to technical aids, commercial and non­
commercial producers and distributors, and to the rules and 
regulations in force in the country in question on the 
acquisition or lease of such aids. 
Thanks to the cooperation between the collection centres in the 
technical coordination group, collection input forms were 
simplified to make the collection procedure faster. So far 
(23 September 1991), 13 316 items of information have been 
collected on technical aids for persons with motor, visual and 
communication disabilities, together with an inventory of 
education or rehabilitation software. 
Each national data collection centre can thus consult the 
HANDYNET European database by telephone, although there are a 
number of drawbacks to this procedure. 
To overcome these, it was decided to replace the "on line" 
system by a much faster and decentralised system (CD-ROM), i.e. 
a compact disc supplied to each of the national centres and 
updated at regular intervals. 
The HANDYNET system is thus now operational for the collection 
of data-, work is concentrating at the moment on achieving as 
wide a dissemination as possible of this information by the 
national and regional information centres. 
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Training for personnel at these centres in the Member States is 
provided for under the HORIZON initiative and will call as much 
as possible on the services of disabled people. 
Disabled people's information requirements ar% not limited Just 
to technical aids; what is needed is the same kind of 
information on matters essential to a frontier-less Europe, 
i.e. labour market, accessibility, transport, tourism and 
sport. 
3.2.2. Electronic mail and electronic Journal 
The structure adopted for the HANDYNET system made it possible 
to develop a communication and information system linking the 
members of the network by electronic mail and an electronic 
Journal. 
Under HELIOS I, the above facilities were available only to the 
national data collection centres; under HELIOS II, they will be 
extended to all programme partners. 
3.3 Extended consultation structures 
The Advisory Committee which was set up under HELIOS I will be 
retained for HELIOS II. Alongside this committee, the 
Commission intends to maintain and enlarge the liaison group 
and to bring in, along with the government representatives, 
representatives of the non-governmental organisations and of 
the social partners. 
The dialogue group will also be formalized under HELIOS II. 
This group comprises only representatives of the representative 
European non-governmental organisations, the aim being to 
exchange views on HELIOS II activities. 
4. Conclusion 
HELIOS II is therefore intended to maintain, promote and 
intensify the activities undertaken in HELIOS I, which 
consisted of supporting the efforts being made in the Member 
States and to increase cooperation and coordination of 
activities at local, regional, national and Community levels. 
Consequently, the Commission is proposing to the Council the 
implementation of a third action programme designated HELIOS 
II, embracing all types of disability and integration issues, 
with the aim of making significant advances for the benefit of 
disabled people, who are constantly confronted with their 
limitations and find life a permanent struggle. The programme 
is constructed in such a way as to take account of the wishes 
of disabled people, their families and others involved, and 
reflects the recommendations, resolutions, opinions and wishes 
expressed in particular by the European Parliament and other 
international and Community organizations and bodies. For the 
purpose of carrying out this programme, it appears necessary to 
extend its application over a period of five years, from 1992 
to 1996. 
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D. COMMENTS ON THE ARTICLES OF THE PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION 
ARTICLE 1 
Article 1 sets out the aim of the HELIOS II programme, which 
extends the scope of the HELIOS I programme, embracing in 
particular activities connected with prevention, functional 
rehabilitation and various areas of social integration (sports, 
leisure, tourism and culture). 
Integration in the field of education is now formally and directly 
included as one of the aims of the HELIOS II programme. In HELIOS 
I, education was included indirectly, being limited to the primary 
and secondary sectors. In HELIOS II, it is extended to nursery 
schools, university and other higher education and continuing 
training. 
HELIOS I looked at vocational and economic integration designed to 
bring more attention to bear on the transition to employment in a 
normal environment. HELIOS II will bring in further elements, viz. 
guidance and assessment, the adaptation of workplaces and work in a 
sheltered environment. 
HELIOS I covered a four-year period, whereas HELIOS II will extend 
over f ive years. 
ARTICLE 2 
Article 2 concerns the scope of HELIOS II, with a general 
definition of disability. In view of the many different categories 
of disabled people to whom the Community action applies, it has 
been necessary to amend this Article in relation to the HELIOS I 
programme, taking into consideration the classification of the 
World Health Organization. This classification, which is now used 
in an increasing majority of Member States, provides a means of 
covering all the persons targeted by the Community action, 
regardless of the origin of the disability: physical (including 
sensory) and mental (including psychical) or disability resulting 
from a serious chronic ailment. 
ARTICLE 3 
Article 3 sets out the various fields of activity under the new 
programme, going on to set out the aims of work in each of these 
fields: 
a) a comprehensive Community policy, 
b) identification of innovâtive measures, 
c) continued development of exchange and information activities at 
Community level, 
d) improved cooperation with the European NGOs. 
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ARTICLE 4 
Article 4 refers to the measures necessary for implementing the 
HELIOS II programme. These can be broken down into general and 
specific measures. The first of the general ones concerns technical 
cooperation within the networks and collaboration with the NGOs. 
The second measure, HANDYNET, describes the arrangements for the 
collection and dissemination of information, and for stimulating 
research. The third measure concerns participation on the part of 
disabled people and their representative organisations, while the 
fourth covers cooperation with other international organisations. 
The specific measures are explained in detail in the Annex. 
ARTiae § 
Article 5 is unchanged vis-à-vis HELIOS I, and makes the Commission 
responsible for implementation of HELIOS II. 
ARTICLE 6 
Article 6 sets up an advisory committee to assist the Commission in 
implementing the programme and spells out what matters the 
committee is required to advise on. 
ARTICLE 7 
Article 7 provides for an interim report to be drawn up by 
31 December 1994 and a final report to be produced by 1 July 1997. 
The two reports are to be addressed to the European Parliament, the 
Council and the Economic and Social Committee. 
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ANNEXE? 
Annex a : REVIEW OF OTHER COMMUNITY PROGRAMMES» 
ACTIONS AND INITIATIVES 
IN FAVOUR OF DISABLED PEOPLE 
A. Specific measures for disabled people 
1. TIDE initiative 
Technology for the socio-economic Integration of Disabled and 
Elderly people. 
2. HORIZON in it iat ive - Targeting disabled people 
Community initiative geared to improving the conditions of 
access to the employment market for disabled and disadvantaged 
persons. 
B. Other Community programmes, actions and initiatives focusing on 
disabled people 
1• European Social Fund (ESF) 
Disabled people constitute one of the ESF's target groups, with 
the emphasis on long-term unemployment and young people without 
Jobs. 
2. European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 
The ERDF covers activities in the fields of health and training 
in various regions of the Community, providing effective back­
up to the measures undertaken within the context of the HELIOS 
programme. 
3. Human resources, education, training and youth 
All of the following programmes give priority to the 
participation of disabled people: 
a) ERASMUS: European Community action scheme promoting 
mobility of university students and cooperation in higher 
education (1990-94). 
b) LINGUA: Programme to promote foreign language competence in 
the European Community (1990-94). 
c) ARION: Scheme of study visits for education specialists. 
Community cooperation programme designed to improve the 
quality of educational systems. 
d) Youth for Europe: Action programme for the promotion of 
youth exchanges in the Community (1992-94). 
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4. Health and safety at work 
The framework Directive on the introduction of measures to 
encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work 
(89/391/EEC of 12 June 1989) imposes a general obligation on 
employers to protect risk groups (including disabled people) 
against the dangers which specifically affect them (Article 15). 
The individual Directive concerning the minimum safety and health 
requirements for the workplace (89/654/EEC of 30 November 1989) 
sets out the requirements regarding adaptation of the workplace and 
sanitary facilities, accessibility of premises and internal 
movement. 
The proposal for an individual Directive concerning temporary and 
mobile work sites also contains specific provisions in respect of 
disabled people. 
5. Medical research and health 
Medical research and health-related measures must satisfy the wide-
ranging needs arising in the context of Community policy in favour 
of disabled people. Community instruments adopted in 1990 with a 
view to preventing incapacity and disability have contributed 
greatly to reducing the causes of incapacity and disability 
resulting from various diseases or health problems. Additionally, 
research has been undertaken in medicine and the development of 
medical technologies. 
6. Telecommunications and telematics 
a) COST 219: Research project aimed at providing solutions to the 
problems arising from the needs of disabled persons in terms of 
access to telecommunications and te le informatics services 
(1989-91). 
b) RACE: Research and development in Advanced Communications 
technology in Europe (1990-94). 
Three projects under the RACE programme, focusing directly on 
disabled people, concern: 
marketable aid services to help the deaf and hard-of-hearing, 
the visually handicapped, persons with reduced mobility and the 
elder I y, 
a model for adapting multi-media terminals, 
information on the requirements of different categories of 
disabled people, with a view to introducing suitable, 
innovative equipment. 
c) AIM: Advanced Informatics in Medicine. Research and development 
programme in the field of telematics applied to the health sector 
(1991-94). 
Research work undertaken as part of the AIM programme contains two 
projects of interest to disabled people, concerning: 
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systems and tools designed for remote functional evaluation of 
disabled people and for the organisation and enhancement of 
home care, 
equipment and facilities making modern technologies more 
accessible to disabled people. 
d) DRIVE: Dedicated Road Infrastructure for Vehicle Safety in Europe. 
Community research and development programme in the field of road 
transport informatics and telecommunications. 
The Drive programme sets out to improve road safety through 
standardization, research, development and evaluation of 
informatics technologies in respect of road transport (150 000 
people a year become permanently disabled as a result of road 
accidents in the Community). 
e) DELTA: Community action in the field of learning technologies -
development of European learning through technological advance 
exploratory action. 
Covers the following fields in particular: 
vocational training schemes for disabled people 
computer-assisted teaching 
measures designed to eliminate barriers to communication. 
7. Transport 
a) Accessibility of means of transport: proposal for a Council 
Directive on minimum requirements to improve the mobility and the 
safe transport to work of workers with reduced mobility (adopted on 
28 February 1991). 
b) Common rules for a denied-boarding compensation system in scheduled 
air transport (adopted on 8 February 1991): Article 3(4) takes 
into consideration the interests of passengers who must be given 
boarding priority for legitimate reasons, such as disabled persons 
and unaccompanied children (to guard against overbooking). 
c) COST 322: Research into the development of a low-floor bus and 
corresponding adaptations to bus stops. 
d) Study on the information and communication requirements of disabled 
people to enable them to use public transport. 
e) European driving licence (Directive of 29 July 1991): Sets out 
specific provisions to improve access for physically disabled 
people (particularly those with a sensory disability, epilepsy or 
diabetes) to a driving licence. More particularly, it features a 
provision enabling holders of category B licences to drive 
minibuses or other vehicles of more than 3.5 tonnes "for social 
purposes". 
f) Proposal for a Council Directive on the standards relating to the 
design of buses and coaches: Sets out special provisions in respect 
of accessibility, entrance and exit points, height of steps, width 
of gangways and access doors (December 1990). 
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8. Reduced VAT rates and import duties 
a) Reduced VAT rates: It is planned to retain zero-rating or reduced 
rates for a transitional period for special appliances designed for 
disabled people and for their rehabilitation in Member States where 
such provisions currently apply. 
b) Import duties: Exemption of import duties on goods designed to be 
used by disabled people in certain restricted conditions 
(Regulation 918/83). A proposed amendment provides for one of the 
conditions to be done away with, viz. the requirement regarding 
non-equivalence to Community products. Duty-free import is limited 
to goods imported free of charge and with no commercial intention 
on the part of the donor (Directive 82/181/EEC). 
9. Leisure 
a) Creativity: Creation of a structure for the coordination of 
creative activities at national and European levels (concerning the 
European NGO EUCREA and the national NGOs in each of the twelve 
Member States). Its task is to stimulate and coordinate all 
creative activities (e.g. painting, music, theatre, dance, etc.) 
both as therapeutic elements and as a means of self-expression. 
b) Sport: Institution (in progress) of a structure for coordinating 
sporting activities for and by disabled people, with a view to 
enhancing the consistency of activities at national and European 
levels. 
Establishment of a European data bank containing details of ail 
organisations involved in sporting activities for disabled people 
(operational on CD by the end of 1991). 
c) Tourism: Measures for the creation of a structure to coordinate 
tourist activities for disabled people at national and European 
levels. 
A special chapter has been devoted to "social tourism", 
particularly for disabled people, in the Commission's communication 
on tourism. 
10. Consumer policy 
The Consumers' Consultative Council undertakes a regular review of 
Commission initiatives on the specific needs of disabled people. 
11. External relations 
a) PHARE: Community aid programme for economic restructuring in 
the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (Regulation 
3906/89). 
The PHARE programme features projects for Romanian children 
and, more particularly, the full-scale renovation of 17 centres 
for disabled children. 
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b) TEMPUS: Transeuropean mobility programme for higher education 
(1990-1994, Decision of 7.5.1990). 
In the context of the PHARE programme, there are three TEMPUS 
projects open to disabled people..A project submitted in 1990 
concerns training for. disabled people, and general 
consideration has been given to the specific needs of disabled 
peop i e. 
12. Cooperation with developing countries 
Within the general context of the European Community's policy on 
cooperation with the developing countries, one of the main aims is 
to promote the right of access to appropriate health care services 
for the maximum number of people in developing countries, with a 
view to promoting equality and social Justice. 
A large number of Community projects aimed at the development of 
national health care systems in the developing countries include 
activities in favour of disabled people, either in terms of 
prevention or of physical or social rehabilitation. 
(4) 
- 19 -
Annex b: PROVISIONAL REPORT ON THE HELIOS I ACTION PROGRAMME 
1. Political initiatives 
Political initiatives have generally been the result of activities 
undertaken at all levels, more particularly at seminars and 
conferences attended by disabled people and their representatives 
and within the networks for the exchange of information and 
exper ience. 
To take an example from the education field, the conclusions 
arising from the conference held in Rotterdam (1989) led eventually 
to the Resolution of 31 May 1990, which in turn generated a greater 
effort and pragmatic effects from most of the Member States. 
In this respect, the following texts are worthy of mention: 
Report on the employment of disabled people in the Community, 
following the Council Recommendation of 24 July 1986, and the 
Conclusions of the Council of 12 July 1989. 
Council Decision of 18 December 1989 concerning the 
continuation of the Handynet system under the HELIOS programme. 
Resolution of the Council and the Ministers of Education of 
31 May 1990 concerning the integration of disabled children and 
young people into mainstream education. 
Interim Report of 6 December 1990 to the European Parliament 
and the Council on the implementation of the HELIOS I 
programme. 
Draft Resolution of the Council and the Ministers of Education 
on school integration concerning relations between parents and 
teachers. 
Proposal for a Council Directive on minimum requirements to 
improve the mobility and the safe transport to work of workers 
with reduced mobility. 
2. Technical cooperation 
The essential aim of the activities in this field is to promote 
innovation, facilitate exchanges of experience and encourage the 
dissemination of useful experience by the following means: 
a) more intensive European cooperation on existing activities of a 
model nature in the Member States; 
b) institution of a computerised information database (HANDYNET) 
in the nine Community languages in fields affecting the lives 
of disabled people. 
- 20 -
c) European networks 
Four networks have been set up, their members having been 
designated by the Member States' governments: 
1) 50 vocational training or rehabilitation centres and 
exper iences, 
2) 21 local model activities for the integration of disabled 
children and young people in education, 
3) 27 local model activities centring on economic integration, 
4) 32 local model activities dealing with social integration 
(e.g. accessibility, housing, mobility and transport), 
making a total of 130 activities spread over the 12 Member 
States. 
These four networks were set up to stimulate the exchange of 
ideas and trading of useful knowhow and experience among the 
Member States. This is done largely by way of conferences, 
seminars, study visits and training schemes. 
The conferences bring together members of a network and a 
number of external parties. Their aim is to ensure a consistent 
European approach to the development of techniques and to 
promote one or more specific aspects. 
The seminars are devoted to specific themes and bring together 
members of a network who have a particular interest in that 
theme. 
The conclusions arising from such conferences and seminars are 
given wide circulation so that each member concerned can 
circulate the information and derive benefit from it. 
This information is used to organise: 
study visits to enable network members to see and study at 
first hand successful schemes with a view to obtaining new 
ideas; 
training schemes to enable people to study and learn 
particularly effective methods or techniques. 
- 21 -
The results of "al I these activities are difficult to quantify 
as the process of acquiring and refining ideas and concepts is 
a gradual one. 
Nonetheless, it is safe to say that certain Member States with 
a somewhat less sophisticated social system are keen recipients 
of such information and derive progressive benefit from the 
experience of other parties with a view to attaining an 
equivalent level of development, aided more particularly by the 
Horizon initiative. 
Certain particularly significant activities, arising either 
from such meetings or entirely spontaneously, have been so 
successful that they merit further discussion. 
As regards the work of the VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND 
REHABILITATION CENTRES AND EXPERIENCES, it is worth mentioning 
two new activities, the first of which concerns the 
rehabilitation of people with brain damage, where three centres 
have been pursuing a collaborative effort and have successfully 
rehabilitated a number of such people. 
The second concerns the vocational rehabilitation of patients 
with mental health problems, involving centres in Rotterdam and 
Maastricht (Netherlands), Thessaloniki (Greece), Osnabrueck 
(Germany) and Edinburgh (Scotland). 
Mention should also be made of a number of centres whose work 
is of a particularly high level: 
Pengwern Hall (Wales) for people with mental handicap, which is 
devising a training programme covering the full range from 
basic daily activities up to placement in a normal working 
environment. 
The vocational training centres in Worms (for physically 
disabled people) and Bad Vilbel (for physically and mentally 
disabled people) in Germany, where participants can obtain high 
qua I ificat ions. 
The Sahva vocational school in Copenhagen (Denmark), which 
combines a flexible training programme with production for the 
non-sheltered market. 
Queen Alexandra College for the blind in Birmingham (United 
Kingdom), which has a full-range training programme and 
services for those with a visual handicap. 
"La Nostra Famiglia" in Bosisio Parini (Italy) for children 
with various types of disability, where rehabilitation work is 
to a high level in close cooperation with a scientific 
institute. 
- 22 -
- The vocational centre in Saint-Etienne (France), which has set 
up a business cooperation model. 
The Cope Foundation for mentally handicapped people (Ireland), 
which is a good example of a whole range of services from*very 
young children up to the elderly. 
As regards LOCAL MODEL ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF SCHOOL INTEGRATION, 
mention should be made of a number of specific LMAs: 
Northumberland (United Kingdom) for the adaptation and 
equipping of schools with a view to the integration of severely 
disabled children and young people. 
Swansea (United Kingdom) for the integration of disabled young 
people in secondary and higher mainstream education. 
Tholen (Netherlands) for a system of cooperation between 
mainstream and special establishments with a view to limiting, 
recourse to the special system and facilitating access to the 
mainstream system. 
Valladolid (Spain) for individual integration with the 
assistance of a multi-disciplinary team. 
Siena (Italy) for research into new technologies, inter­
departmental cooperation and production of a well conceived 
municipal plan. 
Hinnerup (Denmark) for individual integration in all schools 
and research into new technologies. 
As regards LOCAL MODEL ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF ECONOMIC INTEGRATION, 
attention might usefully be drawn to the success achieved by the 
fol Iow i ng LMAs: 
Genk-Hasselt (Belgium) for a special placement service for 
disabled people, which has achieved a high level of success. 
Silkeborg (Denmark) for an interesting philosophy and a wide-
ranging experiment in vocational training in the mainstream 
system. 
- 23 -
Abensberg (Germany) for a highly effective follow-up system in 
respect of the employment of mentally handicapped people. 
Tullamore (Ireland) for its structured and effective 
involvement in the guidance and employment of disabled people. 
Rieti (Italy) for the de-institutionalisation, socialisation 
and training of mentally ill people by way of a realistic 
approach to employment on the one hand and a publishing 
cooperative for physically disabled people on the other, the 
latter providing training in new technologies. 
Lisbon (Portugal) for a coherent and successful approach to 
vocational training for deaf people. 
London (United Kingdom) for vocational training and new 
(technology-based) approaches to placement. 
Mureia (Spain) for its systematic approach to the integration 
of people with mental handicap. 
Badajoz (Spain) for its management of a placement project for 
disabled people in semi-sheltered environments. 
As regards LOCAL MODEL ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL INTEGRATION 
AND INDEPENDENT LIVING, the following LMAs merit particular attention: 
Val de Marne (France), Esch-sur-Alzette (Luxembourg) and Alava 
(Spain) for their independent living and vocational schemes for 
mentally ill people who have spent long periods in an 
inst itut ion. 
Banff (United Kingdom), Nykobing and Falster (Denmark), Vejle 
(Denmark) and Waterford (Ireland) for a regional de-
inst itut ional isat ion plan establishing home help bases, 
vocational training and leisure activities for mentally 
handicapped and mentally ill people. 
Giugliano (Italy) and Stuttgart (Germany) for the development 
of psychiatric social services away from institutions, 
including emergency services, vocational training, employment 
models and leisure activities. 
- 24 -
Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (France) for its social integration 
scheme based on specially adapted housing, mobility, transport 
and access lb 111ty. 
Bordeaux (France) for its return-home scheme, technical aids, 
adapted housing and everyday aids. 
Belluno (Italy) for its scheme to teach independent living, 
technical aids and accessibility. 
Bologna (Italy) for its inventory of technical aids for 
physically disabled people and for its monitoring of the 
environment of people with serious physical disabilities. 
Llanelli (United Kingdom), London (United Kingdom) and Brighton 
(United Kingdom) for a scheme to involve disabled people in the 
decision-making process, and a door-to-door transport system. 
d) HANDYNET computerized information database 
HANDYNET is a multilingual European computerized information system 
designed to cover the following fields: 
technical aids for motor and visually disabled people, 
communication and educational software, 
vocational training and employment, 
accessibility and transport, 
sport, leisure , tourism, creative activities, etc. 
In accordance with the Council Decision of 18 December 1989, 
priority has been given to activities designed to complete and make 
operational the HANDYAIDS module on technical aids for persons with 
a motor, visual, hearing, mental or communication handicap. 
The system comprises three working modes: 
1. a data base 
2. electronic mai I 
3. an electronic Journal 
The HANDYNET system is a European prototype and has been developed 
step-by-step, becoming operational in 1990, thanks to the 
collaborative effort of specialists from all countries. 
- 25 -
Contracts have been signed with the national data collection 
centres and checked by the respective governments. They lay down 
the rights and duties incumbent on all parties to the system, 
including the Commission. Contracts were signed between June 1990 
and February 1991. 
The collection process started up progressively with the signatory 
centres following installation of the workstations and staff 
training as defined at the system configuration stage. 
As a result, all Member States have been in a position to collect 
the requisite information from the start of 1991. 
To begin with, collection was by way of the telephone network, 
which proved particularly slow and costly. Since then, interfaces 
have been introduced to facilitate the automatic transposition of 
data, with the result that 13 316 items of information had been 
collected by 23 September 1991. 
With the help of the national collection centres represented on the 
liaison group, simplifications were made to the highly complex 
collection forms and improvements were made to the system itself. 
Improvements to be made over coming months include using CD-ROM 
techniques, i.e. compact discs which can be used quickly and easily 
on a decentralized basis. 
Development work is still needed on the information and advice 
centres designed to provide information to disabled people 
themselves. This is at the initiative and under the responsibility 
of the Member States. Technological advances will enable sight and 
sound to be used in combination so as to make data accessible to 
all types of disabled people (e.g. voice synthesis, braille, etc.). 
3. Cooperation with NGOs 
The Commission has already contributed to funding for 163 EC-wide 
activities organised and run by the European NGOs (EURAS). Priority 
in HELIOS I was given to cooperation with European NGOs 
representing particular disability types or integration issues. 
Such cooperation has been strengthened during the HELIOS Programme 
and covers the following activities: 
ongoing dialogue, 
advice to the Commission on technical matters following 
consultation with national organisations, 
participation in the designation of technical criteria for 
political in it iatives, 
dissemination of information on the HELIOS Programme, 
cooperation with other activities in the HELIOS Programme. 
- 26 -
Cooperation with the European NGOs is based on annual European action 
programmes, with the Commission funding conferences, seminars, study 
trips, training schemes and other such cooperation activities on a 
European scale. Of the 50 European NGOS, 30 belong to the dialogue 
group and nine to the HELIOS liaison group. 
A number of the subsidised NGO activities have been of a particularly 
high quality; to mention Just a few: 
Action Européenne des Handicapées (AEH) 
A seminar on the employment of mentally and physically handicapped 
people was held in Aachen (Germany) in November 1989, the aim being to 
formulate ways of improving employment opportunities for disabled 
people on the open labour market. 
Confederation of family organisations in the European Community 
(COFACE) / 
In Strasbourg in April 1991, COFACE and the Association des Paralysés 
de France organised a conference on freedom of movement and settlement 
of disabled people in the Community, the aim being to formulate a 
resolution on this central theme. 
Euro Ii nk - Age 
In March 1990, Euro I ink Age organised a European seminar in Florence on 
ageing and disability, the aim being to discuss these two major areas 
and set up links at European level. The meeting was attended by all 
twelve Member States; the final report contained a European code of 
practice regarding disability and the ageing process, and this was 
taken into account in the policy-making process by the Commission, the 
European Parliament and the Council of Europe. 
International League of Societies for Persons with a Mental Handicap 
The ILSMH organised an annual meeting in June 1991, the aims being to 
formulate a policy on housing for the adult mentally handicapped 
population in Europe, and to discuss the ethical problems of biomedical 
research. 
International Federation of Disabled Workmen and Civilian Cripples 
(FIMITIC) 
FIMITIC organised a conference on independent living and assistance for 
disabled people in Denmark in June 1990. The congress ended with the 
unanimous adoption of a resolution on the fundamental rights of 
disabled people. 
(5) 
- 27 -
Mobility International 
The seminar organised in Milan at the beginning of December 1990 sought 
to compare the legal situations of disabled people at all stages of 
their Iives. 
Rehabilitation International European Communities Association (Rl -
ECA) 
In November 1988, Rl - ECA, together with the Spanish Ministry of 
Social Affairs INSERSO, organised a European seminar in Spain on a 
comparison of income, benefits and services with a view to 
harmonisation of social protection provisions in the Community. The 
final report summarised the outcome in respect of benefits, services 
and social protection. 
European Blind Union (EBU) 
A conference was held in Copenhagen in December 1988 on new techniques 
and new training for blind telephonists. The outcome of the conference 
was the formulation of an important political position on the part of 
the Union: positive discrimination, training, ongoing consultation with 
businesses and development of a European Forum to stimulate contact and 
the exchange of experience and technical and technological information. 
European Community Regional Secretariat of the World Federation of the 
Deaf - ECRS 
At the education conference held in Athens, the "declaration of the ten 
rights of deaf children" was adopted. The declaration was launched at a 
HELIOS seminar on school integration in Rotterdam in 1989 and has since 
acted as a catalyst for subsequent change. A department for the 
education of deaf people has been set up at Patras University in 
Greece, and sign language is being introduced in Portuguese schools. 
The report served as a basis for a number of subsequent conferences 
(training and employment, deaf students' rights, bilingual education). 
European Regional Council of the World Federation for Mental Health 
(ERC-WFMH) 
The first European congress for the families of mentally ill people was 
organised in Belgium by the Flemish Mental Health Association in 
conjunction with ERC-WFMH in June 1991. A manifesto was produced on the 
rights of mentally ill people and their families. 
Creative activities, sport and tourism 
During the life of the HELIOS I programme (1988-1991), there was a 
rapid growth in the number of organisations working in the field of 
sport and creative activities for disabled people. 
28 -
At the same time, creativity and sport are becoming increasingly 
important aspects in fostering the integration of disabled people 
through the exchange of ideas and experience between the Member States. 
The international organisation EUCREA, which is concerned with creative 
activities for and by disabled people and was set up at the initiative 
of the Commission of the European Communities, has its roots in 
national committees in all the twelve Member States. EUCREA's aim is to 
stimulate and coordinate creative activities at national and European 
levels. During the life of HELIOS I, some 350 creativity projects were 
assessed, 127 of which eventually received financial support from the 
Commission. These projects cover all forms of artistic expression and 
all types of disability. Funds have been made available for the 
organisation of conferences, seminars and exhibitions on the creativity 
theme and to help develop facilities for disabled people, ranging from 
music and the theatre, through painting and literature, to audiovisual 
productions. Grants have been made available to support the work of 
disabled artists and others active in the creativity field. 
As regards sport, contacts with an increasing number of organisations 
representing disabled people have brought out the need for a 
coordination structure at both national and Community levels. The 
Commission is giving its backing to this initiative with a view to the 
rationalisation of sporting events. 
During the period 1988-91, some 50 projects concerning a variety of 
sporting activities and various types of disability received funding 
from the Commission. 
In the tourism field, the British Tourist Board, in conjunction with 
the Commission, organised a European conference in March 1991 on 
"Tourism for all". This was targeted at the tourism industry and looked 
more particularly into ways of providing a more effective service for 
disabled people and the social services and organisations representing 
them. The participants stressed the fact that training for architects 
should bear in mind the needs of all tourists, whether able-bodied or 
disabled. Mention was also made of the need to arrive at a situation 
where travel agencies would systematically consult organisations or 
specialists dealing with disabled people. 
- 29 -
4. Public awareness activities 
Great importance is attached to public awareness, whereby the aim 
must be to bring about a change in the mentality and attitude of a 
large part of the population. In this respect, cooperation with the 
media is becoming more and more important. An agreement on 
audiovisual coverage of major events has been concluded with a 
television company. A HELIOS information stand is present at a wide 
variety of fairs and exhibitions to enable information to be 
circulated directly to disabled people and professionals. 
Each year, the Commission organises competitions and awards prizes 
in the field of independent living for disabled people (e.g. 
accessibility, transport and housing). 29 such awards were made at 
the European conferences in Brussels in 1989 and in Brighton in 
1991 for such work as: 
production of an adaptable item of equipment for wheelchairs to 
enable them to clear static or mobile obstacles and avoid 
collisions with pedestrians; being adapted to their daily 
needs, such equipment can enable severely disabled people to 
move about without danger to themselves or to others (Belgium); 
infra-red transmitters at strategic places in areas used by the 
public (e.g. stations and post offices) providing instructions 
or information for blind people (Germany); 
adaptation of public transport (e.g. buses and underground 
trains) in the city of Bilbao (Spain) for all types of 
disability (e.g. lift platforms, ramps, information in braille 
and in the spoken word); 
training in care and independent living for mentally 
handicapped adolescents in a centre providing all the requisite 
equipment and non-institutional activities (Italy); 
renovation and adaptation of housing in an area close to the 
centre of Edinburgh (Scotland), drawing on the experience of 
disabled people and facilitating independent and community 
living and social integration. 
Mention should also be made of work done at London's Heathrow 
Airport, adaptation of a sailing boat for the needs of disabled 
people, grants for disabled artists and accessibility to a wide 
range of European museums and art galleries. 
- 30 -
5. Studies 
The following studies were conducted under the HELIOS I programme, 
providing an essential basis for the formulation of new policies 
and more particularly for new political initiatives: 
copyright for mentally handicapped artists 
sheltered workshops in Europe 
disabled women 
disabled people and new technologies 
vocational and leisure activities for persons with a mental or 
other very severe handicap and for those with multiple 
handicaps 
mobility and transport for disabled people 
the employment situation for disabled people 
statistics on the situation of disabled people 
survey of national rehabilitation centres 
survey on the situation of deaf people in the European 
Commun i t y 
comparison of Member States' social security systems with a 
view to harmonisation for disabled people. 
6. Consultation structures 
As regards the consultation structures instituted under the HELIOS 
programme, the aims are to make activities as transparent as 
possible and to involve disabled people directly in the decision­
making process. These structures take the form of: 
an advisory committee comprising two government representatives 
per Member States; 
a liaison group comprising government representatives from the 
advisory committee, nine representatives of European non­
governmental organisations and workers' and employers' 
organisât ions-, 
- 31 -
working parties on school integration, employment for disabled 
people, mobility and transport, comprising government experts 
to assist the Commission in the various integration fields; 
a dialogue group currently comprising some 30 NGOs selected on 
the basis of their représentâtivity in a particular field at 
European or international level; 
various technical working groups made up of experts, such as 
the HANDYNET technical coordination group. 
- 32 -
Proposal for a 
COUNCIL DECISION 
establishing a third Community action programme to assist 
disabled people (HELIOS II (1992-96)) 
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES, 
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic Community, and 
in particular Articles 128 and 235 thereof, 
Having regard to Council Decision 63/266/EEC of 2 April 1963 laying down 
general principles for implementing a common vocational training policy1, 
and in particular the tenth principle thereof, 
Having regard to the Commission proposal2, 
Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament3, 
Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee4, 
Whereas the completion of the single market, with its social dimension and 
the changes resulting therefrom, a rapidly developing technical environment 
and the context of more complex labour markets make it necessary to adopt 
suitable measures to assist disabled people; 
Whereas the Conclusions of the Council and of the Ministers of Education 
meeting within the Council of 14 May 1987 concerning a programme of European 
collaboration on the integration of handicapped children into ordinary 
schools5 and the Resolution of the Council and of the Ministers of Education 
meeting within the Council of 31 May 19908 affirm the need to remove 
material barriers, to use flexible education methods to meet individual needs 
and to facilitate the transitions to education, to working life and to adult 
life, to establish as active a policy of cooperation as possible with 
specialized institutions, to make use of the various possiblities offered by 
new technologies with regard to education and to foster links between the 
family, the community, social and health services and the world of work; 
1 OJ No 63, 20.4.1963, p. 1338/63. 
2 OJ No C 
3 OJ No C 
4 OJ No C 
5 OJ No C 211, 8.8.1987, p. 1. 
6 OJ No C 162, 3.7.1990, p. 2. 
- 33 -
Whereas the HANDYNET system, through the availability of the technical aids 
module, assists in improving conditions for the integration of the disabled 
and in making the institutions, professions and associations involved in the 
process of integrating the disabled aware of applied research in the field of 
technical assistance; whereas the HANDYNET system thus plays a fundamental 
role with regard to the aims of this programme; 
Whereas the present programme is designed to complement action taken at 
national, regional and local levels, in particular by ensuring an exchange of 
experience and information relating to these actions; 
Whereas, as provided for under item 26 of Title I of the Community Charter of 
Fundamental Social Rights for Workers7, all disabled persons, whatever the 
origin and nature of their disablement, must be entitled to additional 
concrete measures aimed at improving their social and professional 
integration; whereas these measures must concern, in particular, according to 
the capacities of the beneficiaries, vocational training, ergonomics, 
accessibility, mobility, means of transport and housing; 
Whereas the Communication from the Commission concerning its action 
programme8 relating to the implementation of the Community Charter of Basic 
Social Rights for Workers emphasizes that the implementation in the Member 
States of measures to develop and further a coherent overall policy to 
promote occupational and social integration and an independent way of life 
for the disabled, both at national and Community level, is an important 
element of the social dimension of the single market, to be completed in 
1992; whereas a European integration policy for the disabled should be 
pursued and furthered in order to provide greater equality of opportunity 
for disabled people, who form one of the most disadvantaged sections of the 
populat ion; 
Whereas, because this Decision is concerned on the one hand with principles 
for implementing a vocational training policy and one promoting employment 
and on the other with measures, including those to promote functional 
rehabilitation, integration into schools, social integration and an 
independent way of life for the disabled, which need to be adopted in order 
to attain one of the objectives of the Community, and the Treaty has not 
provided the necessary specific powers, it is necessary to invoke both 
Article 128 and Article 235 of the Treaty; 
7 C0M(89) 471 final. 
8 C0M(89) 568 final, pp. 53-54. 
- 34 -
HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS: 
Article 1 
A Community action programme to promote educational, occupational, economic 
and social integration and an independent way of life for disabled people 
(HELIOS II programme), hereinafter called "HELIOS II", is hereby established 
for the period 1 January 1992 to 31 December 1996. 
Art icle 2 
For the purposes of HELIOS II, "disabled people" means people with serious 
impairments, disabilities or handicaps resulting from physical (including 
sensory) or mental (including psychical) impairments and restricting or 
making impossible the performance of an activity or function considered 
normal for a human being. 
Art icle 3 
The objectives of HELIOS II shall be as follows in respect of functional 
rehabilitation, integration into education, vocational training, occupational 
rehabilitation, economic and social integration and an independent way of 
life for disabled people: 
a) to promote the development of a comprehensive Community integration 
policy based on the best innovative and effective experience and practice 
in the Member States; 
b) to identify those innovative approaches and measures to be promoted in 
order to improve the convergence and coordination of actions carried out 
under point a); 
c) to continue to develop exchange and information activities which can 
make a useful contribution as referred to in a) and to ensure that they 
are given as wide a circulation as possible; 
d) to strengthen cooperation with the Europe-wide non-governmental 
organizat ions. 
- 35 -
Art icle 4 
1. The general measures designed to attain the objectives referred to in 
Article 3 shall be as follows: 
a) to coordinate, undertake and encourage activities based on precise annual 
topics, with the intention of promoting innovation, facilitating 
exchanges of experience and encouraging the dissemination of successful 
experiences and the transfer of effective practices. These activities 
shall closely involve disabled people, their families, representative 
organizations, experts, researchers, professionals working in the field, 
voluntary helpers and the two sides of industry. 
b) to meet the information needs of disabled people by pursuing, within the 
context of the computerized information and documentation system 
HANDYNET, on the basis of national data, the collection, adaptation at 
European level, updating, exchange and dissemination of information 
gathered in the Member States by the national collection and information 
centres. 
The HANDYNET system is also intended to stimulate research into and 
production of technical aids through establishing an inventory of applied 
research undertaken in this area. 
c) to promote the participation of disabled people in existing Community 
programmes, in particular in the areas of training and preparation for 
working life, new technologies, vocational training and employment, of 
equal treatment of women, the learning of languages, and mobility of and 
exchanges by young people within the Community; 
d) to ensure close coordination with activities undertaken by inter­
governmental organizations, and cooperation with other activities at 
international level in the areas referred to in Article 3. 
2. The specific measures designed to attain the objectives set out in 
Article 3 are listed in the Annex. 
- 36 -
Art icle 5 
The Commission shall ensure the implementation of HELIOS II. 
Article 6 
1. The Commission shall be assisted by a Committee of an advisory nature, 
hereinafter called the "Committee", composed of two government 
representatives from each Member State and chaired by the representative of 
the Commission. 
2. The opinion of the Committee shall be requested: 
for the constitution and for the definition of the selection criteria of 
the Innovative Local Integration and Exchange Activities (A.I.L.E.); 
for the establishment of the list of annual themes to be dealt with in 
the course of conferences, seminars and study visits organized within the 
framework of these networks; 
on any measure of a general or specific nature to be undertaken within 
the framework of the application of Article 4. 
3. The representative of the Commission shall submit to the Committee a 
draft of the measures to be taken. The Committee shall deliver its opinion 
on the draft, within a time limit which the chairman may lay down according 
to the urgency of the matter, if necessary by taking a vote. 
The opinion shall be recorded in the minutes; in addition, each Member 
State shall have the right to ask to have its position recorded in the 
minutes. 
The Commission shall take the utmost account of the opinion delivered by 
the Committee. It shall inform the Committee of the manner in which its 
opinion has been taken into account. 
- 37 -
Article 7 
1. Before 31 December 1994 the Commission shall submit an interim summary 
report to the European Parliament, the Council and the Economic and Social 
Committee on the implementation of HELIOS II. 
2. Before 1 July 1997 the Commission shall submit a full report to the 
European Parliament, the Council and the Economic and Social Committee on the 
implementation and results of HELIOS II. 
Done at Brussels, For the Council 
The President 
- 38 -
ANNEX 
SPECIFIC MEASURES TO ATTAIN THE OBJECTIVES 
REFERRED TO IN ARTICLE 3 OF THE DECISION 
1. GENERAL REMARKS 
These specific measures will be undertaken by the Commission in 
consultation with the Member States, associations of disabled 
people and of their families, the two sides of industry and 
professional and voluntary bodies involved in the integration of 
disabled people. 
The conditions and procedures for participation by network 
partners, the HANDYNET system and European non-governmental 
organisations are set out below. 
Special attention will be given to the role of new technologies in 
the integration of disabled people. The pedagogical and practical 
potential of new technologies can be a useful tool in the 
development of teaching aids, the adaptation of workplaces, means 
of communication and mobility and as a way of ending the isolation 
of disabled people. 
2. COMMUNITY NETWORKS FOR INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE 
ACTIVITIES (A.I.L.E.)* 
2.1 General conditions and procedures for participation by the A.I.L.E. 
2.1.1. The members of each network must in each Member State represent 
innovative institutions of high standing and with a high 
technical level, recognised in the integration sector and 
giving evidence of interest and experience in this field. 
The A.I.L.E. will be designated as members of a network by the 
Commission on the basis of proposals from the Member States and 
may be replaced. 
Those A.I.L.E. which are candidates for membership of a network 
must undertake to attain clearly defined objectives linked to 
specific and innovative topics. 
The acronym A.I.L.E. (with the phonetic pronounciation " L") 
remains unchanged in all Community languages and is both singular 
and plural. 
- 39 -
Each A.I.L.E. will draw up an annual programme of activities 
with a Community dimension, together with a provisional 
timetable. Each A.I.L.E. will undertake to cooperate at 
Community level and to supply information obtained to the other 
network partners and to partners in the external network. 
A network's activity programme will consist of study visits, 
training courses, seminars, conferences and other European-
scale cooperative activities and will be established on the 
basis of annual topics. 
Positive actions, studies and cooperation with European non­
governmental organisations (EURAS) and Member States will be 
carried out in cooperation with the activities of each 
Community network. 
Working parties grouping together A.I.L.E., and given 
responsibility for implementing various topics relating to the 
integration process, may be set up. An assessment group will 
be set up. 
The A.I.L.E. will be called upon to cooperate closely with the 
relevant representatives of local, regional or national 
authorities, European non-governmental organisations and 
organisations and associations representing disabled people, 
their families and professional and voluntary helpers. 
2.1.2. Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 50% for 
conferences (in cooperation with national authorities) and up 
to 100% for seminars, working party activities, study visits, 
training courses and publication of a magazine. 
2.2 Specific activities 
2.2.1. Community network for INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE 
ACTIVITIES in the field of functional rehabilitation (A.I.L.E. 
I) 
Creation of a network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND 
EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES consisting of medical rehabilitation 
centres (A.I.L.E. I) set up on the basis of clearly defined 
criteria. The task of this network will be to facilitate 
exchanges of information and experience with regard to the 
principles and criteria for complete and coherent functional 
rehabilitation (early timing, completeness, continuity and 
multi-disciplinary nature of individual operations). 
The A.I.L.E. will be represented at network meetings by ill-
time professionals in the field of rehabilitation. 
- 40 -
2.2.2. Community network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE 
ACTIVITIES in the field of education (A.I.L.E. II). 
Creation of a network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND 
EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES in the field of education (A.I.L.E. II) 
based on specific criteria which are to be drawn up. The task 
of this network will be to facilitate exchanges of information 
and experience in nursery, primary, secondary, university and 
para-university education and in continuing training. 
This network will pursue, on the basis of annual programmes, 
the implementation of the European cooperation programme for 
the integration of handicapped children into ordinary schools 
(87/C22/01) and of the Resolution (90/C162/02) concerning the 
implementation of the integration of children and young people 
with disabilities into ordinary systems of education. 
2.2.3. Community network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE 
ACTIVITIES in the field of vocational training and employment 
(A.I.L.E. Ill) 
Amalgamation of the network of vocational training and 
rehabilitation centres and of the network of Local Model 
Activities in the field of economic integration (LMA II) from 
the first HELIOS programme in a new network comprising 
INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES in the 
field of vocational training and employment (A.I.L.E. Ill), on 
the basis of clearly defined criteria. The task of this 
network will be to facilitate exchanges of information and 
experience with regard to the principles and criteria governing 
vocational training and employment, particularly with regard to 
topics such as guidance and assessment, training innovations, 
employment, sheltered employment (in particular sheltered 
workshops), the transition to ^employment in an ordinary 
environment, the adaptation of workplaces and evaluation of 
employment capability. 
This network will continue to implement Recommendation 
86/379/EEC and Conclusion 89/0173/01 on the employment of 
disabled people in the Community and will contribute to the 
application of the Community Charter of Fundamental Social 
Rights of Workers. 
The Commission will promote a "European code of good practice" 
on integration into the labour market, drawn up in cooperation 
with the Member States. 
- 41 -
2.2.4. Community network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND EXCHANGE 
ACTIVITIES in the social field (A.I.L.E. IV) 
Transformation of the network of Local Model Activities in the 
field of social integration (LMA III) from the first HELIOS 
programme into the network of INNOVATIVE LOCAL INTEGRATION AND 
EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES in the social field (A.I.L.E. IV), on the 
basis of clearly defined criteria. The task of this network 
will be to facilitate exchanges of information and experience 
and to encourage as independent a way of life as possible and a 
full social life, with particular regard to the rights of 
disabled people, their participation in normal life, access to 
accommodation, public buildings and transport and the removal 
of architectural and psychological obstacles and those 
hindering communication. 
Exchanges of experience in the following fields: accessibility 
of public buildings (including cultural and leisure 
facilities), adaptation of private accommodation (including 
equipment and home help to permit an independent way of life in 
one's own accommodation) and provision of facilities to assist 
the mobility and transport of disabled people. 
3. COMPUTERIZED INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION SYSTEM (HANDYNET) 
3.1 General conditions and procedures for participation by national 
collection and coordination centres and by national information and 
advice centres. 
National collection and coordination centres will have as their 
task the transmission to a central point of data collected at 
national level concerning the various fields of integration and, 
depending on the circumstances, commercial or non-commercial 
organisations having a link with technical aids and concerning the 
regulations in force in respective Member States. 
The task of the national information and advice centres will be to 
inform and advise both disabled people and their professional 
helpers about the social and economic integration process on the 
basis of data made available at Community level. 
3.2 Specific activities 
Continued development of the technical aids module, collection of 
information relating to products and to commercial and non­
commercial organisations associated with these products and an 
inventory of regulations concerning these products. 
- 42 -
Extension of the HANDYNET system through the creation of new 
modules dealing with employment and training, sport, creativity, 
tourism and other leisure activities, a research bibliography, 
documentation, a multilingual thesaurus and statistics. 
Carrying out positive and forward-looking activities to encourage 
the adaptation of new technologies to the needs of disabled people, 
and to encourage research. 
Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 100% (to cover the 
European dimension of the system). 
4. COOPERATION WITH NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS 
4.1. General conditions and procedures for cooperation with the 
Commission. 
4.1.1. The Commission will strengthen its cooperation with the non­
governmental organisations (NGOs), primarily with those which 
are representative at European level. 
4.1.2 The European NGOs (EURAS)* will participate at various levels 
on the basis of respect for the criteria of representativeness 
within the Community, as follows: 
at the first level, the EURAS will be represented in the 
twelve Member States, have some competence in dealing with 
each type of disability or be specialized in dealing with 
the main problems of integrating disabled people; 
at the second level, the EURAS will represent a specific 
disability or integration issue in more than one Member 
State. They will be invited to Join forces and be 
represented at Liaison Group level by an NGO representing 
their type of disability or their integration issue. 
The Commission will invite the EURAS taking part in the 
programme within the Liaison and/or Dialogue Groups to 
establish a National Committee in each Member State, 
grouping together the various national associations 
representing a type of disability or an integration issue. 
The acronym EURAS remains the same in all Community languages and 
is both singular and plural. 
- 43 -
4.2 Specific activities 
To draw up, each year, a programme of activities eligible for 
financial support from the Commission and to give a balanced 
opinion on the priority rating of these activities. 
To organise Innovative Rehabilitation Activities (A.I.R.)* in all 
fields concerned with the integration of disabled people, such as 
prevention and early assistance, functional rehabilitation, 
integration into schools and training, vocational rehabilitation, 
vocational training and employment, new technologies, independent 
living, access to cultural activities, creativity, sports, leisure 
and tourism, the families of disabled people, the elderly disabled 
and social, economic and legal protection. These Innovative 
Rehabilitation Activities (A.I.R.) will be carried out by means of 
conferences, seminars, study visits, training courses and other 
European-1 eve I cooperative activities on the basis of annual 
topics. 
To provide information for national associations in the Member 
States and other European NGOs in their respective sector of 
activity on actions undertaken at Community level. 
To advise the Commission, at its request, on the technical aspects 
associated with the type of disability or the specific integration 
issue being dealt with. 
To submit an annual report on activities carried out which have a 
European dimension. 
The Commission will contribute to the expenses arising from the 
provision of coordination and expertise for first-level European 
non-governmental organisations (EURAS). 
Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 50% for meetings of 
the National Committees of the EURAS, conferences, seminars, study 
visits, training courses and other European-1 eve I cooperative 
activities, and up to 100% for expenses arising from the provision 
of coordination and expertise for first-level non-governmental 
organisations (EURAS). 
The acronym A.I.R. (with the phonetic pronounciation " R") remains 
unchanged in all Community languages and is both singular and 
plural. 
- 44 -
5. INFORMATION AND AWARENESS-RAISING CAMPAIGNS AIMED AT PUBLIC OPINION 
Wide circulation of information to publicise activities and 
campaigns to make public opinion and the media aware of the 
problems of integrating disabled people. 
The Commission will contribute to raising the awareness of public 
opinion through the organisation of competitions, the presentation 
of annual prizes for pilot projects in the various fields relating 
to the integration of disabled people, and through media 
act ivitles. 
The pilot projects rewarded with a prize will be presented at a 
conference/exhibit ion. 
The Commission will lend its support to the annual organisation at 
national level of information meetings for all participants in 
HELIOS II. 
Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 100%. 
6. SPECIAL TRAINING MEASURES 
The Commission will organise training schemes in the Community for 
national and Community civil servants and for representatives of 
the networks and of organisations representing disabled people. 
7. SPECIAL THEMES 
In implementing the specific measures detailed above, the 
participants in HELIOS II will devote special attention to: 
prevention and early assistance, with a view to preventing the 
appearance or development of an impairment, incapacity or 
disabiIity, 
difficulties encountered by the families of disabled people, 
disabled women and elderly disabled people, 
the economic and social integration of disabled women, 
training for professionals and volunteers involved at the 
various stages of the integration process, 
persons with special responsibilities in respect of disabled 
children, adolescents and adults. 
- 45 -
8. PROGRAMMES, ACTIVITIES AND INITIATIVES CONCERNED DIRECTLY WITH 
DISABLED PEOPLE 
Special steps will be taken to create a synergetic effect in the 
field of vocational rehabilitation and employment with the HORIZON 
initiative and, in respect of new technologies, with the TIDE 
initiative. 
9. STUDIES AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE 
Studies, consultancy services and technical assistance required for 
the drawing up of proposals or for providing technical support in 
the fields referred to in Article 3. 
Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 100%. 
10. ADDITIONAL SPECIFIC ACTION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE ACTIVITIES 
REFERRED TO IN ITEMS 2-5 
Cooperation with outside experts responsible for assisting the 
Commission in coordinating, guiding and evaluating the activities 
referred to in items 2-5. 
Rate of Community financial contribution: up to 100%. 
- 46 -
HELIOS II PROGRAMME (1992-1996) 
FINANCIAL STATEMENT 
PART 1: FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS 
1. Title of the operation 
Community action for disabled people - HELIOS II programme 
2. Budget headings concerned 
B3-4102 B8-3502 B3-1000 
3. Legal basis 
The third action programme known as HELIOS II (1992-1996) sets out to 
develop a comprehensive and consistent policy at Community level in 
favour of the disabled, building on the experience gained under the 
previous programme (cf. Council Decision 231/88/EEC). 
4. Description 
Organisation of four innovative Local Integration and Exchange 
Activities networks (AILE) in conjunction with the Member States, 
covering functional rehabilitation, school and university 
integration, employment and vocational training, and the promotion of 
independent living. 
Subsidies for external activities involving non-governmental 
organisations in cooperation, coordination and consultancy exercises 
at European level. 
Operational development of the HANDYNET computerised information 
system, covering the "technical aids" module and extending the scope 
to other modules (research bibliography, employment-training, 
creativity, sports and tourism); European dimension of the system. 
- Organisation of special training measures in the Community for 
national and Community civil servants and for representatives of the 
networks and of the non-governmental organisations. 
- Public awareness-raising work by way of a programme of annual awards 
for model projects in a variety of fields and specific activities in 
conjunction with the audio-visual media. Increased dissemination of 
information. 
Studies and other technical assistance measures, particularly with a 
view to preparing, monitoring and evaluating political initiatives. 
- Coordination, organisation and evaluation of the above activities by 
outside experts. 
- 47 -
5. Classification of expenditure or revenue 
5.1 NCE 
5.2 DA for B3-4102 
NDA for B8-3502 B3-1000 
5.3 Types of revenue: none 
6. Nature of expenditure or revenue 
- 100% expenditure (for activities connected with contracts for the 
provision of services). 
- Subsidies for joint financing with other public and/or private sector 
sources. 
- Study and consultancy contracts. 
- Seminar, documentation, publication and secretariat expenditure. 
- Travelling and subsistence expenditure and salaries for special 
training measures. 
7. Financial impact on intervention appropriations (Part B of the budget) 
7.1 Indicate the way in which the total cost has been calculated 
(cf. Annexes 1-2) 
(1992-1996): 47.3 MECU 
46.3 MECU : B3-4102 B8-3502 (mini-budget) 
1 MECU : B3-1000 
Total cost in 1992 : 8.55 MECU 
6.707 MECU : B3-4102 
1.693 MECU : B8-3502 (mini-budget) 
0.150 MECU : B3-1000 
a) Innovative local integration and exchange activities (AILE) networks in 
conjunction with the Member States 
2.1 MECU 
b) Public opinion awareness-raising 
0.5 MECU 
c) HANDYNET system 
1.9 MECU 
d) Cooperation with non-governmental organisations 
3.15 MECU 
e) Training measures 
0.3 MECU 
f) Studies and technical assistance 
0.6 MECU 
- 48 -
An increase of + 8% is earmarked for 1992 and an annual increase of 5% for 
the period 1993-1996 for budget heading B3-4102 (and of 0.015 MECU for 1992 
and 0.025 MECU per year for the period 1993-1996 for B3-1000). 
1) The highest percentage increase is for 1992, which is the lead year for 
the implementation of the new programme. 
More particularly, it is planned to implement gradually the activities of 
the four AILE networks and of the HANDYNET system. Financial aid for 
cooperation with the NGOs will be slightly reduced over 1991 (leaving out 
subsidies in 1991 for the new German Lander) so as not to create too wide 
a gap between aid applications and the inadequate budget resources. The 
budget available for dissemination of information at national level will 
be greatly increased, as will the money for new special training 
measures. 
Total increase for 1992: 0.515 MECU (+8%) 
Increase by activity sectors: 
I. AILE networks 
Rate of inflation + 82 000 ECU + 4% 
Gradual implementation 
of activities - 32 000 ECU - 1.6% 
TOTAL: + 50 000 ECU +2.4% 
II. HANDYNET: 
Rate of inflation + 74 000 ECU + 4% 
Multilingual thesaurus, 
documentation, implementation - 24 000 ECU - 1.3% 
TOTAL: + 50 000 ECU + 2.7 % 
III. Cooperation with the EURAS (AIR) 
Rate of inflation: + 140 800 ECU + 4% 
Lower level of cooperation on 
the basis of annual themes 
(taking account of the new 
Lander in 1992) - 510 800 ECU -14.5% 
TOTAL: - 370 000 ECU -10.5% 
- 49 -
IV. Public awareness activities 
and dissemination of information 
Rate of inflation: J 
Dissemination of information: 
TOTAL: 
V. Special training measures 
Training measures 
Preparation and 
evaluation conferences 
TOTAL : 
VI. Other activities 
TOTAL: + 15 200 ECU 
+ 104 800 ECU 
+ 120 000 ECU 
+ 200 000 ECU 
+ 100 000 ECU 
+ 300 000 ECU 
+ 365 000 ECU 
+ 515 000 ECU + 4% 
+28% 
+32% 
+55.3% 
+ 8% 
2) Between 1993 and 1996, the annual increase (reduced in percentage terms 
to 5%) will enable the HANDYNET system to be extended to include the 
employment and training, sport, creativity and tourism modules and to 
take in a research bibliography. It will also make it possible to set up 
and extend external information networks with the AILEs and the funding 
of projects run in cooperation with the NGOs. Finally, special attention 
will be devoted to evaluation exercises concerning specific objectives 
and performance indicators. 
Total increase : + 5 % (average percentage increase per year) 
7.2 Indicate the proportion of the "mini-budget" in the total cost. Give 
details of how the calculation was made. 
personnel 
publications/information 
infrastructure: 
direct 
share 
other 1 456 000 ECU 
40 000 ECU 
157 000 ECU 
40 000 ECU 
What anti-fraud provisions are included in the proposal? 
Account and invoice audit. 
-50 -
PART 2 : ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENDITURE 
1. Staff needed to carry out the programme: 
DG V Present Additional staff requested 
3 A 1 A 
2 B IB 
2 C 1 C 
1 national expert on secondment 
These additional posts will have to come from resource programming for the 
year in question or by internal redeployment. 
2. Administrative appropriations required 
p.m. - meetings of the HELIOS Advisory Committee for the social and 
economic integration of handicapped persons, HELIOS 
tripartite Liaison Group 
(A 2510) 
meetings of the HELIOS working parties on school integration, 
employment, mobility and transport, HANDYNET-HELIOS technical 
coordination, evaluation and the HELIOS dialogue group. 
(A 2500) 
- 51 -
PART 3 : COST-EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS 
1. Aims and consistency with the financial planning 
The HELIOS II action programme covers a period of five years (1992-1996). 
The total amount of 47.3 MECU, including 46.3 MECU on B3-4102 and B8-
3502, accords with the financial planning for the period. 
2. Justification of the measure 
The 30 million disabled people (making up 10% of the population) 
constitute one of the most disadvantaged population groups in the 
Community. Within the economic context, and with the work situation 
becoming more and more competitive with the advent of the Single Market, 
not to mention the pace of technical change, the Community needs to take 
more and lasting measures to help the disabled. 
3. Monitoring and evaluation arrangements 
The Advisory Committee and the HELIOS Liaison Group, comprising 
representatives of the Member State governments, the non-governmental 
organisations and the two sides of industry, meet in principle three 
times a year to monitor and evaluate the progress of the HELIOS II 
programme. An evaluation working party will be set up in agreement with 
the Liaison Group. An evaluation report will be drawn up by an external 
organisation on completion of the HELIOS II programme. 
4. Public awareness-raising work with a programme of annual awards for model 
projects in a variety of fields and specific activities in conjunction 
with the audio-visual media. Dissemination of information at national 
level. 
5. Organisation of special training measures in the Community for national 
and Community civil servants and for representatives of the non­
governmental organisations and the networks. 
1. Timetable 
1) 1992 will be the pivotal year for HELIOS II. Implementation of the AILE 
network activities on the basis of annual themes, extension of the 
HANDYNET system and intensified cooperation with the NGOs on the basis of 
priority annual themes will start in earnest at the beginning of 1993. 
From 1992 on, special training measures will be organised for civil 
servants and representatives of the networks and of the NGOs. 
2) Period 1993-1996: 
AILE network: the number of conferences and seminars will be increased by 
from 1993. The number of study trips and training courses will also 
increase. External networks will be set up from the beginning of 1993. 
- 52 -
Extension of the HANDYNET system 
Creation of the employment/training module: beginning of 1993 
Creation of the sport (beginning of 1992), creativity and tourism 
module: beginning of 1993 
Creation of the research bibliography: beginning of 1994 
Creation of the multilingual thesaurus: beginning of 1992 
Statistics: from the beginning of 1993 
Cooperation with the NGOs on the basis of annual themes. 
Development of the procedure for granting subsidies on the basis of 
priority annual themes: from 1993. 
Justification: 
There are something like 30 million handicapped people in the Community, 
representing 10% of the population and constituting one of the most 
disadvantaged population groups. Within the economic context, and with 
the work situation becoming more and more competitive with the advent of 
the Single Market, not to mention the pace of technical change, the 
Community needs to take more and lasting measures to help the disabled. 
The performance indicators are as follows: 
- The AILE networks: 
The activities of the four AILE networks concern the exchange of 
information and experience between model projects of an innovative 
nature and are organised on the basis of priority annual themes. The 
specific objective is for each AILE to take an active part during the 
programme in preparing study trips, training courses, seminars and 
the annual conference on a priority annual theme, and for all the 
AILEs to take part each year in at least one annual conference. It is 
also planned to invite at least each external network partner to an 
AILE network activity during the programme. 
HANDYNET: 
The specific objective is to enable each disabled person or his or 
her organisation in the Community to have access during the programme 
to the HANDYNET system to obtain information free of charge in one of 
the official languages on all types of technical aids available on 
the European market. 
The plan is also to set up an operational data base accessible to 
handicapped people on employment and training, sport, creativity and 
tourism and a research bibliography. 
53 -
- Cooperation with the NGOs: It was thought appropriate to increase the 
budget for cooperation with the European NGOs in view of the 
substantial rise in the number of activities and initiatives of an 
innovative nature at Community level in the various HELIOS programme 
priority fields. The specific objective is to promote, on the basis 
of AIR annual themes, external cooperation activities in each major 
handicap type or integration problem sector. 
- Special training measures: The specific objective is for civil 
servants and representatives of the EURAS and of the networks to be 
enabled to take part each year in a special training measure, i.e. a 
4-6 week experience placement in a different Member State. 
3. Monitoring and evaluation arrangements 
The Advisory Committee and the HELIOS Liaison Group, comprising 
representatives of the Member State governments, the non-governmental 
organisations and the two sides of industry, meet in principle three 
times a year to monitor and evaluate the progress of the HELIOS II 
programme. Moreover, a dialogue group comprising representatives of the 
non-gouvernemental organisations meet in principle twice a year. An 
evaluation working party will be set up, and an evaluation report will be 
produced by an external organisation on completion of the HELIOS II 
programme. 
The evaluation working party will be asked to take an annual look at the 
progress made on the specific objectives and at the performance 
indicators as mentioned under point 2 "Justification". 
B3-4102 Likely schedule of poyments os compored with commitments: 
APPROPRIATIONS 
1. Comnitments contracted 
prior to 1991 for payment 
from new payment appropriations 
2. Committment appropriations 
deferred") from 1990 
3. 1991 appropriations 
4. 1992 appropriations 6.207 
6.695 1991 
2.5 
3.507 1992 
0.563 
2.4 
5.5 PAYMENTS 
1993 
0.2 
0.3 
1.0 
TOTAL 6.007 8.463 7.8 
5. 1993 appropriations 7.059 -
6. 1994 appropriations 7.407 -
7. 1995 appropriations 7.777 -
8. 1996 appropriations 8.175 
(1) Or reconstituted, for payment from new payment appropriations 
B8-3502 
B3-1000 6.3 
CA 
PA 
CA 
PA 1.693 
1.693 
0.135 
0.135 1.837 
1.837 
0.150 
0.150 
TOTAL 
B3-4102 
B8-3502 
B3-1000 Commitment appropriations 
Payment appropriations 8.035 
7.835 8.682 
10.45 1.9 
1.9 
0.175 
0.175 
9.134 
9.875 1994 
0.137 
0.163 
6.9 
0.6 
6.0 
2 
2 
0.2 
0.2 
9.607 
9.1 1995 
7.359 
0.159 
1.0 
6.2 
2.1 
2.1 
0.225 
0.225 
10.102 
9.684 Annex 1 
1996 
7.907 
0.407 
1.0 
6.5 
2.2 
2.2 
0.25 
0.25 
10.625 
10.357 4> 
ANNEX 2 
1991 
(for InformotIon) PROGRESSION OF THE HELIOS II PROGRAMME ANO OF THE HANOYNET SYSTEM, 1992-1996 
1992 1993 1994 1993 1996 TOTAL 
1992-1996 
I - Local Integration and 2 0S0 000 
exchange 
activities network» 
(A.I.L.E) 
II - Public opinion awartnut- 380 000 
raiting 
III - HANOYNET system 1 850 000 
IV - Coopération with the NGOe 3 520 000 
on innovative rehobiIiat Ion 
action* (A.I.R) 
V - Special training measure* 
VI - Studies and technical 
ass I stance 235 000 
8 035 000 2 100 000 
532 000 
1 900 000 
3 150 000 
400 000 
600 000 
8 682 000 2 213 000 
559 000 
1 995 000 
3 317 000 
420 000 
630 000 
9 134 000 2 331 000 
587 000 
2 095 000 
3 491 000 
441 000 
662 000 2 434 000 
616 COO 
2 200 000 
3 674 000 
463 000 
695 000 2 584 000 
648 000 
2 310 000 
3 866 000 
488 000 
729 000 
9 607 000 10 102 000 10 625 000 11 682 000 
2 942 000 
10 500 000 
17 498 000 
2 2 12 000 
3 316 000 
48 150 000 
of which 
Chapter 83-4102 B8-3502 7 500 000 8 532 000 
mlnI-budget 
Chapter 83-1000 
Chapter 83-4102 
(New German Lander) 133 000 
400 000 150 000 8 959 000 
175 000 9 407 000 9 877 000 
200 000 225 000 10 375 000 
250 000 47 150 000 
1 000 000 
- 56 -
SME IMPACT STATEMENT 
TITLE OF THE PROPOSAL: 
Draft Community action programme 
for disabled people 
HELIOS II. 1992-96 
Reference number of document:V/1196/91 
The proposal ; 
1. The aim of the HELIOS Community action programme is to promote 
integration in the field of the education, occupational and economic 
integration and the independent lifestyle of handicapped people, more 
particularly by the following activities: 
To coordinate, undertake and stimulate exchanges of experience and 
information at Community level. 
To pursue, in the framework of the HANDYNET computerized information and 
documentation system, the collection, updating, exchange and 
dissemination of information assembled in the Member States on technical 
aids for the disabled. 
The HANDYNET system will be extended to cover training, employment, 
tourism and leisure pursuits. 
Cooperation with the European non-governmental organizations (EURAS). 
As regards the subsidiarity principle, the HELIOS programme is limited to 
measures of a European dimension, more particularly exchanges of experience 
and information, and the development of collection and information software 
at Community level in the nine Community languages. 
Impact on business: 
2. Who will be affected by the proposal? 
The HELIOS II programme has no direct effect on the various business 
sectors. However, the HANDYNET system, which aims to make the European 
market for technical aids more transparent, will have an effect on the 
technical aids sector, which is currently dominated in all the Member 
States by a few national undertakings. 
The technical aids for the handicapped sector is mainly made up of small 
and medium-sized businesses. 
Most of the firms in the technical aids sector are to be found in the 
north of the Community. 
3. Undertakings will have to take no particular measures to comply with the 
proposa I. 
- 57 -
4. What economic effects is the proposal likely to have? 
The action programme sets out to promote employment prospects for the 
handicapped by developing a general Community policy based on best 
experience and practices in the Member States in the field of economic 
integration, training and occupâtional rehabilitation. 
No direct effects on investment, the creation of new businesses or the 
competitive position of businesses. 
5. The proposal contains no specific measures for small and medium-sized 
businesses. 
6. Consultation: 
The government representatives, the non-governmental organizations 
representing the handicapped and the two sides of industry represented on 
the HELIOS Liaison Group have been consulted on the proposal. 
ISSN 0254-1475 
COM (91) 350 final 
DOCUMENTS 
EN 05 
Catalogue number : CB-CO-91-450-EN-C 
ISBN 92-77-76626-3 
Office for Official Publicadons of the European Communities 
L-2985 Luxembourg