Making Disaster Preparedness Inclusive for All ♿
Disability Screening Camps in Sarlahi under the RAIN Programme
When disaster strikes, it affects everyone — but not everyone is affected equally. People with disabilities often face higher risks and barriers during emergencies. That’s why under the RAIN (Resilience through Action in Nepal) Programme, we’re taking concrete steps to ensure disaster preparedness is inclusive, accessible, and leaves no one behind.
Prerana’s Initiative: Disability Screening Camps in Kabilashi Municipality
To ensure that disaster preparedness efforts are truly inclusive, Prerana has taken the lead in organizing disability screening camps across key wards. Recently, several successful camps were held in Kabilashi Municipality, Sarlahi, with more scheduled in the coming weeks.
What Happens at These Camps?
- Identification of persons with disabilities in the community
- Assessment of their individual needs and challenges
- Support & Facilitation to access government disability ID cards and essential services
Why These Camps Matter
✔️ Inclusive Community Planning
When everyone is counted, everyone can be protected.
✔️ Stronger Local Partnerships
Collaborating with local governments, health workers, and civil society ensures long-term support.
✔️ Improved Services for Persons with Disabilities
Access to ID cards unlocks rights, services, and resources — from healthcare to assistive devices.
The Need for Assistive Devices: A Major Gap
For many people with disabilities, an assistive device is more than just a tool — it’s a gateway to independence, safety, and dignity. Whether it’s a wheelchair, hearing aid, walking frame, white cane, or customized orthotic, these devices play a critical role in helping people:
- Navigate daily life
- Respond effectively during emergencies
- Participate in school, work, and community activities
However, one of the most pressing challenges is the lack of certainty around funding for these devices.
Currently, there is no dedicated or predictable mechanism to ensure assistive products reach those in need.
Who Should Fund Assistive Devices?
This question remains a critical policy gap:
- The government has a responsibility under the Constitution and the Disability Rights Act to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, including access to assistive products. However, government budgets are limited and inconsistent across provinces and municipalities.
- Donor agencies and NGOs often step in, but their contributions are project-based and time-bound, leading to shortfalls once the program ends.
- A sustainable solution is needed — one where the government leads with strong budget allocation, supported by technical and financial input from non-governmental partners.
We believe inclusion must be systematic, not symbolic. Disability-inclusive disaster preparedness is only possible when real needs are met with real solutions — including timely provision of assistive technology and policy clarity on funding responsibilities.
More camps are being planned. Stay connected for updates as we continue building more resilient, inclusive, and equitable communities.
