Mission

The SIRG has as its founding principles:

• Provide a focus for the worldwide exchange and dissemination of research and practice, as well as networking, in the field of persons with profound multiple disabilities. Individuals with profound multiple disabilities form a heterogeneous group. The 'core group' consists of individuals with such profound cognitive disabilities that no existing standardized tests are applicable for a valid estimation of their level of intellectual capacity and who often possess profound neuromotor dysfunctions like spastic tetraplegia as well. Apart from profound intellectual and physical disabilities, it has been demonstrated that they frequently have sensory impairments. Individuals with PMD form a physically very vulnerable group of persons with a heavy or total dependence on personal assistance for every day tasks, 24 hours a day. The SIRG/PMD brings together researchers and practitioners with different disciplines and from different countries.
• Promote cross-national, multidisciplinary collaboration in the area of persons with profound multiple disabilities. The ultimate aim of the group is to improve the quality of life or and services for people with profound and multiple disabilities, their carers, and their families.
• Provide a framework for the collation of information relating to the research interests, expertise, and publications of group members. Within the overall process of collaboration, the views and contributions of nonprofessionals, including people with intellectual disabilities and their families and friends, are a fundamental component, and will be given the priority they deserve.

The SIRG works by means of a newsletter, a mailing list, and two-yearly round table conferences. The group also makes several contributions on the European and World Congresses of IASSID.

Contact person

For information on joining the SIRG/PMD, contact the SIRG Chair,
Bea Maes at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
or write to

Bea Maes
Research Centre on Special Education and Parenting
University of Leuven
Leopold Vanderkelenstraat 32, B-3000 Leuven
Belgium

*For more information, updates and documentation please consult : www.sirgpmd.be