With the intention of increasing awareness about Cerebral Palsy and to provide as many facilities for children under one roof, Swayam conducted regular workshops on different topics and brought together qualified professionals in the field of paediatric support together in its centre. Our aim was to provide a positive environment and a meaningful life to the children affected by disabilities.
What started off as a small centre with only one therapist is today a well-equipped rehabilitation centre with professionals offering Speech and Language therapy, Neuro-Developmental Therapy, Remedial Therapy, Snoezelen therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Sensory Integration Therapy, and Group therapy. With these therapies, Swayam has provided a great deal of support for parents and children with Cerebral Palsy in and around Thane city. Swayam has also conducted medical camps every year with the help of well-known doctors and other professionals on World Disability Day. We have conducted many workshops and training programs including Workshop on Speech and communication, Stress relief camps, Training on Neuro-Developmental Therapy and Sensory Integration Therapy for parents of children with multiple Disabilities, Training for parents of children with autism and hyperactivity, workshop to build mental strength, Yoga camps, Conference or talks regarding disability rights, Art and craft camps which was especially successful among the children.
Swayam has attempted to provide relief and moments of happiness to the otherwise stressed and depressed parents. We have organised picnics, fancy dress and celebrated Children’s day, Dasara and Diwali. This has strengthened the relations between the centre, children and parents.
50% of children at Swayam, have multiple disabilities including Autism and ADHD. We have started a separate section to address the needs of these children as well. We have also started a vocational training group for those above 18 years of age.
For those in rural areas who are unable to commute to obtain therapies for their child with disabilities, we want to provide ‘Therapy On Wheels’. For those who cannot physically move from their homes to the centre due to their severe disability, we are working on a ‘Home Based Rehabilitation’ project to make alterations in their home setting, according to the WHO guidelines.
Swayam’s aim is not just to remain a therapy centre, but also to become a Research centre. To help us achieve some of our goals, Thane Municipal Corporation has graciously provided us with a place to provide our services, which we are utilising optimally. We are running this Rehabilitation Project for these children with multiple disabilities as a Joint Venture with Thane Municipal Corporation, Thane.
