Projects
Our services are based on the belief that our service users are entitled to and should be empowered, encouraged and supported to enjoy the same lifestyle as any member of society. We achieve this by working in partnership with NGOs, health services, social welfare services, the Education Department and the government, along with the service users themselves, who are at the centre of our projects and actively participate in our shared vision.
DFoG has put in place within its service delivery policies that:
- Promote equality;
- Foster empowerment;
- Enable social inclusion;
- Promote independence and the elimination of social exclusion;
- Promote equal opportunities and rights;
- Fight oppression and discrimination;
- Campaign for social justice, human rights and the elimination of superstition around learning disabilities.
Awareness
Our organisation is designed to undertake continuous research and development in all areas of learning disabilities, and to compile and document data and create awareness about these issues. The research and development unit works closely with local statutory bodies, NGOs, International Disability Organisations, the United Nations disabilities branch (Enable) and other representatives worldwide.
Health Research
People with learning disabilities in Ghana are being neglected in hospitals and all health care relating areas. A small proportion receive poor standards of health care while the majority do not receive any health care at all.
A DFoG research reveals the presence of a few psychiatrists providing services for about one fifth of the population who have learning disabilities that include epilepsy, cerebral palsy and Down's Syndrome. As a result, resources are stretched to the extent that it is only it is only the fittest that survives in this case.
The research also highlights the substantial health care needs of people with learning disabilities. They have been marginalised and even lack access to the basic main stream health services. The new health insurance policies, shortage of human resources in health field have exacerbated the already worsened plight of people with learning disabilities in Ghana.
The research's identification of the huge gulf in assistance, if any, given to those with learning disabilities in this area, fills DFoG with great optimistic that its tireless campaign will help raise awareness and encourage health professionals and policy makers alike to pay some attention to this area of healthcare. It is also hoped that this will prompt the Ghanaian government to act sooner than later to end this misery for the learning disabled.