Support for Side by Side
Through its micro-project programme, the German Embassy in Namibia was able to support the Side by Side Early Intervention Centre through a grant of N$424 000 to help children with physical and mental challenges.The money will be used to procure mobility devices, such as standing frames, wheelchairs and carriers for disabled children and provide applicable training to their parents across the country.
Side by Side aims to support children with disabilities and their families by mobilizing resources through various collaboration strategies involving the child, the parent and the community. With a multi-disciplinary approach and a fully equipped and passionate team, their primarily focus lies on the wellbeing of every child with a disability and their families.
The organisation offers workshops, support therapy, and assistive devices along with referrals and integration techniques, because they believe that every child with a disability deserves a healthy, educated and informed family and environment.
Side by Side believes that inclusion in society and education is key to the quality of life of these children and their families. Through advocacy, resource mobilisation, and education they promote the strengthening of early detection - early intervention and community based rehabilitation services to achieve a fully inclusive Namibia.
Countrywide training
Last year the organisation trained more than 1 040 people in five regions (Khomas, Oshana, //Kharas, Omaheke and Otjozondjupa) on disabilities. A total of 149 home visits were made and 1, 600 one-on-one rehabilitation sessions with children with disabilities and their families were held. Additionally, the regular programme sees 79 children per week at the rehabilitation centre.
At their centre, the NGO trains caregivers, parents and educators of children with disabilities on disability care, rehabilitation and inclusion. Furthermore, training for community leaders within the Ministry of Health are currently being scheduled.
The mobility devices that will be procured come from regional suppliers. These specially designed wheelchairs and buggies are well suited to African terrain and have many other features, accessories and adjustable options for a wide range of ages, posture support needs and functional abilities. The supplier will provide a week-long training on positioning / posture support needs of the children as well as the functional ability of the mobility devices.
The supplier of the baby / child carriers is specialised for the needs of children with disabilities. These carriers are therapeutic alternatives that allow parents to transport bigger children with less effort, thanks to the specially designed system that supports the caregivers’ back, shoulders and posture. The carriers are produced in Namibia.