Question NW2630 to the Minister of Social Development
19 September 2023 - NW2630
Mkhonto, Ms C N to ask the Minister of Social Development
(1)Whether her department maintains a database of persons who need wheelchairs, walking crutches and other equipment needed by people living with disabilities so that they may be mobile; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether her department has a budget to cater for wheelchairs and related services; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) which other departments is she working with in terms of ensuring that such services are accessed by all who are in need thereof?
Reply:
- No, the Department of Social Development does not maintain a database of persons with disabilities in need of assistive devices, including wheelchairs because that is the primary mandate of the Department of Health as per the National Rehabilitation Policy. However, the Department provides a collaborative process through its social workers, auxiliary social workers and supported NGOs that render social work and support services to vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities.
- No, refer to the reply above. The Department funds and supports NGOs providing social work and support services to persons with disabilities.
- As guided by the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Department collaborates with other departments, including the Departments of Health, Basic Education and Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities to ensure a whole-of-Government and society approach to disability mainstreaming.
National Assembly written Reply: 2630 of 2023
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Approved by the Minister of Social Development
Date……………………….