Question

Role of community in community based rehabilitation

Answer 1

Community-based rehabilitation was introduced by the World Health
Organisation (WHO) at the Alma-Alta conference in 1978, as an effective method
of providing rehabilitation services to people with disabilities in the global
context. Over the last twenty five years, CBR has emerged in developing countries
in response to the inadequacy of financial and professional services (Lysack &
Kaufert, 1994; Peat, 1998; Boyce, 2000). International agencies define CBR as:
“A strategy within general community development for the rehabilitation,
equalisation of opportunities and social inclusion of all people with
disabilities. CBR is implemented through the combined efforts of people
with disabilities themselves, their families, organisations and communities,
and the relevant governmental and non-governmental health, education,
vocational, social and other services” (ILO, UNESCO, WHO, 2004)
CBR programmes -
l are part of community development and are a tool for social change through
activities such as the fight against poverty and illiteracy, raising awareness
about other health issues, child labour, promotion of human rights, etc;
l can play an important role in providing a wider range of income-generating
activities as well;
l can enhance awareness about existing laws related to the employment of
persons with disabilities;
l can also provide training and encourage self-employment by providing
information about obtaining loans, managing funds, etc. (WHO/DAR, &
IAARF, 2002).