The art of relations: theatre – social work. Co-creation of a theatrical group by mentally ill persons as a creative form of empowerment.

This article aims to recognize the potential of theatre in the process of social work in Poland, taking into account the perspective of globally-used solutions as well as local conditions that mentally ill persons find themselves in. The results presented here originate from a qualitative study based on the method of participatory observation as well as interviews with members and creators of four polish theatres aim to show the role that belonging to a theatrical group plays in the process of empowerment. The research findings suggest that it is possible to treat the co-creation of theatrical groups by  persons suffering from mental illnesses as a form of a social rehabilitation, underlining the meaning of self-determination, the sensation of having influence, the development of relationships as well as the possibility of identification with the status of an actor despite the increasing symptoms of illnesses. The experience of theatre, which helps to create the reality of human condition, carries with itself not just the reflection on a certain intangiblity of the contact between a social worker and a client, the deeply human imperative of help, but foremost the revelation of an inner covenant between social work and art, being fulfilled in unceasing improvement and the search for better ways to communicate.

The study is to show a closer relationship between activity of Brother Albert (Adam Chmielowski) and ideas of radical social work. The notion “radical” is considered as connected with “radix”, not necessarily with “unconventional”. This research provides arguments for treating spirituality as an integral part of social work and underlines the role of love in support process. The article presents holistic approach to clinical practice. In this case social workers and their clients should seek interconnectedness and try transcend dualistic scheme of thinking. Br. Albert and radical social workers articulate that social work should create a community based on humanity and deep similarity between human beings. It will be very difficult without spiritual context of human experience. The article shows how we can build a bridge between secular and religious social work.

Model of cohesion policy for disabled people in the European and Polish perspective

Countries united in the membership of the Council of Europe in 2006, adopted by the Committee of Ministers of the recommendation relating to the implementation of a new model of approach to disability issues. In this model, the concentration of abandoned "on a disabled person as an isolated entity, rather than a coherent, integrated approach which respects human rights, fundamental freedoms and dignity of all people with disabilities. As a result, in many European countries to promote an active policy that allows people with disabilities to control over their own lives. At the same time society has changed the role of the total number of non-governmental organizations, especially organizations of persons with disabilities. They have become partners with governments and people with disabilities, acting on behalf of people with disabilities, service providers or as a source of knowledge and competence. "This partnership between the (government and community organizations), the construction of the cohesion policy for people with disabilities. As far as the Polish system coped with a new model and European recommendations, this article tries to present.