Twenty-six Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) who are part of the National Disabilities Unit’s (NDU) Recreational Activities Programme were treated to a tour of Harrison’s Cave, earlier today.

Addressing members of the media before the tour, NDU Social Worker, Anita Batson, explained that this initiative is just one of several programmes which the unit has established to assist PWDs with reintegration into societal activities.

"We have a large number of Persons with Disabilities who need to get out of the house. After a person acquires a disability you may find that person grieving at home alone, whereas they need to make an adjustment to accepting [their disability]. This Recreational Activities Programme helps them to fill that void," said Ms. Batson.

She also reported on the progress of the Aquatic Programme which is another recreational activity hosted by the NDU.?? This is a form of rehabilitation therapy where PWDs are taken to the beach, and enter the water with the aid of beach wheelchairs where they exercise with the assistance of an occupational therapist.

"Through the aquatic programme we have seen persons … ably supporting themselves, learning to swim and being empowered to be active in life again," the Social Worker added.

Among the other activities under the Recreational Activities Programme are group therapy sessions which give PWDs "an opportunity to form friendships and share coping methods and techniques." sharifa.medford@barbados.gov.bb

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