Transform to Move Forward.

Strategic organisational transformation, person-centred service design, and rights-based governance in rural disability services.

Regional

Traditional, centralised service models were failing to meet the evolving and diverse needs of people with intellectual disabilities, mental health problems, and those at risk of social exclusion, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers compound inequality. In 2017, Alba launched a strategic transformation (renewed in 2023 as Vision 2030), co-created with over 200 stakeholders including people with disabilities, families, and professionals. The organisation shifted to an agile, decentralised structure driven by three strategic teams, replacing rigid institutional logic with a 360º person-centred model designed around individual life projects. The organisation adapts to the person, not the other way around.

The practice has been successful, with key success factors including the move to an agile governance structure, the introduction of digital tools (+Integra platform, intranet, social impact assessment), and the embedding of human rights principles through an ethical care code. Concrete milestones since 2017 include three new rural occupational centres, a satellite early intervention office, new independent living housing, employment inclusion hubs, three social entrepreneurship entities, and the introduction of the personal assistant role.

1,749 people supported in 2025, including people with intellectual disabilities, people with mental health problems, and those at risk of social exclusion in rural areas; families; 310 staff and professionals within the organisation; rural communities; and public administration partners. 

The practice is transferable because it is built on adaptable, modular components, person-centred planning, community-based services, ethical governance, digital coordination tools, and flexible service design, all aligned with the UNCRPD and the Quality of Life Model. It does not depend on exceptional funding or charismatic leadership, making it resilient over time. Its elements can be implemented progressively across different legal, cultural, and funding environments, and are relevant to any organisation seeking to move from institutionalised to community-based, rights-aligned support. 

Marta Burgell – mburgell@aalba.cat