Surge in Support Needs: Fiji’s Children with Disabilities on the Rise

The Frank Hilton Organisation has recently highlighted a notable rise in the number of children needing assistance, with annual cases increasing by 25 percent. Chief Executive Officer Sureni Perera attributes this surge to heightened awareness during specific months dedicated to disabilities, which emphasizes the importance of early intervention and support.

This organization plays a vital role in aiding children with disabilities and developmental hurdles in Fiji. Perera noted that the rise in cases is particularly pronounced during awareness periods, such as Cerebral Palsy Month, where referrals to their services often spike.

Encouragingly, there is a positive trend emerging—more children under the age of six are seeking assistance earlier than in previous years. Perera reported that children are now coming as young as two to four years old, contrasting sharply with earlier patterns where assistance was typically sought much later, often around ages 10 to 18. This shift is a strong indication that public awareness around the importance of early detection and intervention is growing.

The government has allocated $900,000 to the Frank Hilton Organisation this year. While Perera expressed gratitude for this funding, she emphasized the need for additional resources to keep pace with the increasing demand for services. She acknowledged the challenges government faces in balancing funding across competing priorities but stressed that there is still much work to be done.

Beyond financial aid, Perera advocates for a broader look at policy changes that foster inclusion and understanding regarding the needs of children with disabilities. She believes that enhancing societal attitudes and perceptions is crucial for improving support mechanisms.

The Frank Hilton Organisation remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for the necessary resources to address the needs of children with disabilities and developmental challenges throughout Fiji. This organization is play a critical role in advocating for these vulnerable children, indicating that collective societal efforts can yield meaningful change.

In summary, the increasing recognition of early intervention opportunities presents a hopeful outlook for children with disabilities in Fiji, as efforts to enhance awareness and resources are ongoing. With continued support, both financially and socially, the future holds promise for these children and their families.