Our international network is mobilizing No images? Click here Families of persons with intellectual disabilities are trying to cope with the new challenges created by the COVID19 pandemic. In addition to the struggles faced by everyone, families in our network are trying to manage: the financial impact of disability-related costs, being considered a low-level priority for health services, the lack of disability support at home (especially for people with high support needs) and being left out of remote education strategies. We have heard from families in different regions that it is becoming difficult to even feed their families. They are fearful that their need to access health services risks greater exposure to COVID19. All of these factors increase anxieties and stress, impacting on mental health. Family members are required to be a pillar of strength in the life of persons with intellectual disabilities on the outside, while feeling isolated and desperate on the inside. Staying connected to each other, communicating and exchanging experiences provides essential relief during these difficult times.
Inclusion International believes in the power of community. Together we can share the burden of stress and help each other through. We continue to exchange resources, processes, stories, contacts and above all, concerns. We are not alone. Last week’s webinar was focused on the work our members are doing to support families during the COVID19 outbreak. Representatives from our member organisations in Peru, Canada and across Africa shared some of the challenges families are facing in their region/country and the strategies their organisations are using to support them. Pedro Marroquin, Sociedad Peruana Sindrome de Down (SPSD) presented the demands of parents to access information and emotional support. To respond to these demands, SPSD organise regular virtual guidance conferences for families led by professionals and virtual workshops for self-advocates. Fatma Wangare, Inclusion Africa, presented parents' fears of society regressing on inclusive progress, and personal fears about getting the virus and leaving their loved ones unsupported. Many families are without internet access, food or social protection and domestic violence cases are rising. Our organisations are providing direct support; communicating with parents via phone and WhatsApp and advocating using media houses, writing newspaper articles or working with the Human Rights Commission. Robin Acton, Canadian Association for Community Living (CACL), explained that people with disabilities in residential facilities are disproportionately at risk of COVID19 in Canada. Families are financially impacted and feel unsupported causing increased stress and mental health issues. CACL are reaching out to families, sharing information on their website and collaborating with other DPOs from the cross-disability movement. |