Hidden People
In rural Uganda, many individuals with disabilities are kept out of sight, hidden at home.
There is a lot of misunderstanding within the families and the community about the causes of these conditions, resulting in mny children being abandoned to hidden at home for most of their lives. The lack of societal infrastructure for this group means that basic support is minimal, making it challenging for them and their families to thrive.
At Hidden People, we give these children a chance to be seen, and to access therapies and love that they so vitally need.
We host play sessions for disabled children and their families at Hidden People. This also provides an opportunity for them to access various therapists such as occupational, physiotherapists and speech and language, and informal education as appropriate.
The aim of this is to improve understanding and acceptance of these children, reducing their social isolation, and improve their physical and mental development.
Community Support
Community Education
We conduct awareness campaigns through radio, community meetings, and school programs. We also organise training sessions for teachers and community leaders on inclusive practices.
The aim of this to have a more informed and empathetic community, with reduced stigma towards disabilities. We also hope to be able to include some children at New Dawn school, as well as at other schools, public spaces, and workplaces.
Parents' Support Group
We hold regular support groups for carers of these children. Sometimes professionals are invited to provide information on caregiving, education, and available resources. We also help to train parents to better assist their disabled children.
The aim of this to offer emotional support and practical knowledge, improved parenting skills and increased advocacy for the rights of disabled children.
Creating Linkages of help
We source any necessary medical equipment and lending out equipment as needed.
We also have collaboration with local healthcare experts and the nearby neurological hospital for medical support.
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The aim of this is that disabled children are connected with essential services and healthcare resources, and strengthened collaborations.
Spiritual Support
We engage all disabled children and families with spiritual pastoral support, demonstrating that no matter what their neurological condition, they are fearfully and wonderfully made as expressed in Psalm 139 v 13-14.
We hold prayer and pastoral support groups for parents who wish to participate, and worship sessions for all family members
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The aim of these is that these families feel supported, and to know that they and their children are loved by God.