Advocating for the inclusion of children with a disability
During Disability Rights Awareness Month we wish to encourage people to create inclusive spaces for children with disabilities, as they are among the most vulnerable in society.
From 03 November to 03 December, the Western Cape Department of Social Development is placing a spotlight on the rights of persons with disabilities and special needs.
The department, in partnership with 213 Non-Profit Organisations, provides various support services to persons with disabilities to promote well-being, dignity, and protection, which includes daycare programmes for children with disabilities.
Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt, recently visited one of these organisations, the Sunrise Special Care Centre in Cape Town. The Centre provides support for children with severe to profound intellectual and physical disabilities from underprivileged communities.
Centre manager Heinrich Kruger said, “Currently, the centre supports 30 children, providing essential care, therapeutic services, and a nurturing environment tailored to each child’s unique needs. Committed to inclusivity and dignity, Sunrise strives to empower these children, enabling them to experience joy, growth, and a sense of belonging within a caring community.”
“For many families of children with disabilities, these facilities are a lifeline because here they thrive while under the care of professionals who teach them basic skills like talking and feeding themselves. While government and civil society have their roles prescribed by legislation and policies, everyone has a part to play in the safeguarding of children with special needs. It is everyone’s responsibility to build an inclusive society where the dignity of children with disabilities is protected, whether it be by breaking attitudinal, social, or physical barriers faced by these individuals,” said Provincial Minister Londt.
He added, “While we encourage residents and businesses of the Western Cape to support these registered organisations through financial and other donations, volunteers are also essential to the success of these NGOs. Volunteers can make a big difference in alleviating some of the pressure on staff at these centres, especially where resources are limited. At Sunrise, they love having volunteers to assist the carers in taking the children for walks or playing with them. You can brighten the life of a child just by spending some time with them. All it takes is a small step to make a big difference.”
To access more information about services offered by the Department, call our toll-free number on 0800 220 250, send an email to SD.CustomerCare@westerncape.gov.za or visit the department’s website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/social-development/service/persons-disabilities-programme
MEC Londt's soundbite - English:
MEC Londt's soundbite - Afrikaans:
Media Enquiries:
Monique Mortlock-Malgas
Spokesperson to MEC Jaco Londt
Department of Social Development
Tel: 084 775 2975
E-mail: Monique.Mortlock@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za