Western Cape: Working towards a more inclusive society for all
03 November marks the start of Disability Rights Awareness Month, which culminates in International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 03 December.
During this month, the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) wants to place a spotlight on the rights of persons with disabilities, calling on communities to help create an inclusive society for all.
“Mossel Bay is leading the way with its Disability Accessibility Mossel Bay model, to be the first disability-friendly town in South Africa. DSD is working with the Mossel Bay Municipality on this, along with various organisations. I am hoping we can get more towns in the province to follow suit. All we need are concerted and collective efforts to create policies and spaces aimed at inclusivity and the breaking of barriers,” said Provincial Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt.
The department, in partnership with 213 Non-Profit Organisations, provides various support services to persons with disabilities to promote well-being, dignity, and protection, including:
- Disability awareness and educational programmes;
- Developmental supportive and therapeutic services (social work interventions): counselling, support group programmes;
- Daycare programmes for adults and children with disabilities;
- Support programmes for families/caregivers;
- Protective workshops services and residential care services; and
- Residential Homes for Persons with Disabilities.
DSD also has its own residential facility for adults and children with disabilities, Sivuyile.
Over R148 million has been allocated to support organisations in the disability sector.
Minister Londt recently visited two of these organisations, the Cape Town Association for the Physically Disabled (APD) and the Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association (WCCPA). Both organisations showcased the different protective workshops they run, where Persons with Disabilities are taught skills which they use to do paid-for-work for businesses.
“It is important for communities to understand that while people with disabilities have unique challenges, they also have unique strengths and abilities,” said Chenesai Munhamo, Senior Social Worker at APD.
“The economic climate has made it difficult for organisations in the disability sector to function optimally. I encourage companies and businesses that have tasks such as the recycling of plastic products that they wish to outsource, to give it to registered organisations. If you want to partner on bigger projects, please reach out to us so we may guide you on where the biggest needs are. In this way, you are getting work done, while empowering Persons with Disabilities, and providing them with dignity and purpose,” added Minister Londt.
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/dept/social-development
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Media Enquiries
Monique Mortlock-Malgas
Media Liaison Officer: Ministry
Department of Social Development