SAMARTHYA’s workshops provide aids, appliances and adapted equipment to increase self confidence and functional ability in disabled persons.

These workshops in Deodurg, Raichur and Koppal are the only such workshops in the area. They also extend services to PWD's from outside these 2 districts.

There are frequent follow-ups and all aids and appliances are customised to the particular needs of each individual. The workshops also take orders from other organisations.

Highlights 2002

537 Children Tested for Speech & Hearing :

Five hundred and thirty seven children with hearing impairment were assessed at a Speech and Hearing assessment camp organised in Koppal. The camp was organised by SAMUHA PLAN in collaboration with the District Red Cross Society, the district office of the Dept. of Women & Child Welfare, and the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mysore. Hearing aids were given to 103 children and 12 children were referred for surgical intervention.

Ear Mould Production & Repair :

Ear mould production, repair and maintenance services have been established at the Koppal workshop. Parents are being given regular training on how to use these aids.

Rotary International :

Corrective surgeries have been conducted for 13 children and adults with disabilities with support from Rotary International. Rotary also supported infrastructure requirements of orthotic workshop machinery, computers, VCD's, a photocopier, tape recorders, televisions, and furniture.

Hilary Crowley, an Occupational Therapist and the founder of the SAMUHA Overseas Development Association (SODA), along with two OT students from the University of Alberta, provided inputs on structural adaptations and mobility aids and appliances during their 3-month stay in the project areas.

KEY LEARNINGS:

The lack of trained technicians is affecting the production and repair of ear moulds. The project has sent a staff member to AIISH, Mysore, for a 3-month training course in ear mould production, repair and maintenance.

As there are a number of children with speech and hearing impairment, there is a strong need to organise audiological assessment camps in the project areas.

There is a need to support many more children who need surgical interventions.

Rajeshwari was very happy when she received a prize for the 100 metres running race as part of the World Disability Day celebrations. This eight-year old from Jalahalli had been diagnosed with speech and hearing impairment; the project supported her with a hearing aid and there has been a remarkable improvement in her comprehension and communication. She currently attends Class II and is extremely enthusiastic about learning.

IN THE PIPELINE...

... construction of a permanent orthotic workshop at Deodurg.