WHO guidelines on rehabilitation of differently abled discussed at meeting

Furthering an attempt to create an inclusive setup for persons with disabilities, the Tamil Nadu branch of the Community Based Rehabilitation India Network has approached local NGOs to empower differently-abled on self-advocacy for rights and benefits.

A meeting in Tiruchi on Tuesday apprised them of guidelines issued by WHO on community-based rehabilitation for persons with disabilities. Broadly categorised under education, employment, health, livelihood, and social life, the benefits and demands include creating a barrier-free environment for greater mobility, assistive devices, and special learning materials to make classrooms inclusive, said Irudayasamy, treasurer, of the nation wide network.

Braille ballot papers

Making the ‘right to vote a reality’ for differently-abled by providing options like Braille ballot papers and ramps in voting booths, and facilitating self-employment by encouraging public and private financial institutions to extend loans to start businesses were other needs to be addressed.

Around 35 representatives from organisations working for the welfare of differently-abled in Tiruchi district convened at Udayam training centre, said K.A.S.Arivazhagan, coordinator. The initiative was sponsored by CBM, Bangalore, and AUSAID.