Rising Needs: Fiji’s Children with Disabilities Call for Action

The Frank Hilton Organisation has reported a troubling yet significant rise in the number of children in need of support, with cases increasing by 25 percent each year. CEO Sureni Perera highlighted that many of these cases tend to be identified during awareness months, which emphasize the critical importance of early intervention.

The organization plays a vital role in providing assistance to children with disabilities and developmental challenges in Fiji. Perera noted that the influx of cases is particularly pronounced during specific awareness periods, such as Cerebral Palsy Month, which indicates a growing recognition of these issues among the public.

Encouragingly, Perera mentioned an emerging trend of younger children seeking help from the organization, with an increase in cases being reported from as early as birth up to two years old. This shift from older children, who might have sought services at ages 10 to 18 in the past, suggests a heightened awareness about early detection and the benefits of timely intervention.

This year, the government has allocated $900,000 to the Frank Hilton Foundation. While Perera expressed gratitude for this support, she noted that the organization requires additional resources to adequately address the rising demand for services. Despite the ongoing challenges of balancing funding across various community needs, Perera emphasized the importance of not just financial support, but also fostering a deeper understanding of inclusion and changing societal attitudes toward disabilities.

The Frank Hilton Organisation remains dedicated to advocating for increased awareness and resources, aiming to better cater to the needs of children with disabilities and developmental challenges in Fiji. Their commitment to early intervention and awareness signifies a hopeful future for these children, as community recognition continues to grow.

In summary, the article outlines the increasing demand for support services for children with disabilities in Fiji, highlighting both positive developments in early intervention and the need for continued support from the government and community.