The Frank Hilton Organisation has reported a notable 25 percent annual increase in the number of children seeking support for disabilities and developmental challenges. CEO Sureni Perera highlights that many of these cases emerge during dedicated awareness months, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and engagement.
The organization plays a vital role in aiding children in Fiji, with a trend observed where younger children—especially those under the age of six—are accessing services earlier. Perera views this as a positive shift, presenting statistics that indicate children are coming for support at ages 0 to 2 and 3 to 4, rather than at much older ages like 10 or 18, which was common in the past. This early identification is a promising sign, suggesting a greater public awareness regarding the importance of early detection and intervention.
This year, the Fijian government has allocated $900,000 to the Frank Hilton Foundation. While Perera expresses gratitude for this funding, she also stresses the necessity of additional resources to effectively respond to the increasing demand for their services.
She acknowledges the challenges the government faces in balancing competing priorities but emphasizes that more can be done beyond just financial support. Options include enhancing policy frameworks, improving understanding of inclusion, and shifting public attitudes towards disabilities.
The Frank Hilton Organisation remains committed to advocating for heightened awareness and the resources essential to meet the needs of children with disabilities throughout Fiji. Their ongoing efforts reflect a positive movement towards inclusivity and support for these children and their families.
This article sheds light on the important work being done in Fiji to support children with disabilities and illustrates a community that is becoming increasingly receptive to early intervention strategies. It highlights the collaborative efforts required to nurture a more inclusive environment for all children.
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