Disability programme needs subsidies

I am writing to voice concern over the fact that my daughter could be left out of the disability programmes at the Razzett tal-Hbiberija as from next October.

For those of you who do not know, ir-Razzett tal-Hbiberija provides accessible and tailormade programmes for school age children with a disability. These activities are called Leisure-Education as they provide learning experiences through recreation activities.

The schools, and indeed us parents, are not charged for these activities (rightly so, as these should be part of the child's education and development).

My daughter loves going to the Razzett tal-Hbiberija, which she presently does once a fortnight. The change I see when she comes home that day is remarkable. I wish she could have more frequent visits.

I am a firm believer in inclusion; therefore it is ideal that my daughter attend mainstream schools, and also get to experience the programmes at Razzett. The management there tells me that the funds they can raise limit the possibility for more sessions, and transport (which they also provide).

I am writing to voice my concern as I hear that the Razzett tal-Hbiberija is in financial difficulty due to the fact that the programmes that so many schoolchildren attend during school hours are not subsidised by the Education Department.

I think that the value of these services warrants some form of help and, since they have proven to be a resourceful organisation, should possibly warrant help more than others.

I am told by the facilitator of my child that the Razzett tal-Hbiberija, informed the schools that they will only accept 40 schools next year and my daughter's school might be left out to give a chance to other children.

While I understand that everyone should have a chance to experience these very useful programmes, I feel that the government should help organisations such as these with proper subsidies, to ensure that all disabled people can get the necessary experiences to develop and learn through play and recreation.

I urge other parents to voice their concern, as the loss will be ours and our children's.