International Wheelchair Day, celebrated annually on March 1st, raises awareness about the challenges wheelchair users face, celebrates their achievements, and advocates for more accessible communities. It highlights the importance of inclusion, independence, and equal opportunities for all. In South Africa, various resources and organizations are available to help improve accessibility and support wheelchair users. Here are some places you can turn to for help and how they make a difference in the lives of wheelchair users in South Africa:
1. QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA)
The QuadPara Association of South Africa is one of the most prominent organizations supporting people with physical disabilities in the country. They focus on enhancing the quality of life for wheelchair users through advocacy, empowerment, and the provision of relevant resources.
Services offered by QASA include:
- Advocacy and policy change: QASA actively campaigns for better accessibility, inclusivity, and rights for people with disabilities at both the national and provincial levels.
- Support programs: They provide support for wheelchair users and their families, offering workshops, guidance on disability-related issues, and social networks.
- Rehabilitation and empowerment: QASA helps wheelchair users transition to independent living and offers services such as physical rehabilitation and training in various life skills.
Website: QASA
Contact: 031 767 0352
2. The South African Disability Alliance (SADA)
The South African Disability Alliance (SADA) is a national advocacy and service organization that represents people with various disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. They work towards creating a more inclusive South African society by ensuring that people with disabilities have access to the rights and resources they deserve.
Services offered by SADA include:
- Policy advocacy: SADA lobbies for improved disability policies and works with the government to ensure compliance with the Disability Rights Charter.
- Awareness campaigns: SADA organizes campaigns and events to raise awareness about the rights and needs of people with disabilities.
- Resource connection: They provide information on support systems, health services, and mobility aids for people in need.
Website: SADA
Contact: 0800 567 567
3. Motivation South Africa
Motivation South Africa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mobility challenges by providing accessible equipment, including wheelchairs, to those in need. They are part of the Motivation UK network and work to support people living with disabilities by offering mobility aids, health equipment, and rehabilitation services.
Services offered by Motivation South Africa include:
- Wheelchair distribution and assessment: Motivation SA provides a wide range of wheelchairs, from basic models to customized, high-tech chairs, tailored to the individual’s needs.
- Training: They provide training for caregivers and wheelchair users to maximize the use and care of mobility aids.
- Community outreach: They work on projects to distribute mobility equipment and raise awareness about disability rights and needs in underprivileged areas.
Website: Motivation South Africa
4. The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)
The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) is one of South Africa’s key organizations focused on advocating for and supporting persons with disabilities, including wheelchair users. They aim to empower people with disabilities to live independently and access their rights as South African citizens.
Services offered by NCPD include:
- Training and development: The NCPD provides training programs to equip people with disabilities with skills for employment and daily living.
- Accessibility initiatives: They work to ensure that public spaces and buildings are accessible to all, including those who use wheelchairs.
- Disability information center: NCPD runs information centers across the country to help individuals with disabilities access available resources, such as funding, healthcare, and mobility aids.
Website: NCPD
Contact: 011 452 2774
5. Wheelchair Accessible Transportation: Paratransit Services
In South Africa, accessible transport is a significant challenge for many wheelchair users. However, some initiatives are working to make public transportation more inclusive. Paratransit services are available in certain regions, offering tailored transport solutions for those with mobility needs.
Services include:
- Metrobus Johannesburg: Metrobus in Johannesburg operates some wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Taxis and transport services: Some private companies and local government initiatives offer paratransit services for wheelchair users.
- Uber Accessible Rides: Uber has started offering wheelchair-accessible rides in select locations in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
6. Disability Equipment Suppliers
There are various suppliers of mobility aids and wheelchairs in South Africa that cater to the diverse needs of users. Some trusted names include:
- City Mobility: They offer a wide range of products for mobility and healthcare, including wheelchairs, electric scooters, and other aids for independent living.
Website: City Mobility
- Riback: Specializing in supplying mobility equipment, Riback provides wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices to individuals across South Africa.
Website: Riback
7. Access to Disability Grants
The South African government provides disability grants through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). These grants are designed to help individuals with disabilities meet their basic needs.
SASSA provides:
- Disability Grants: Aimed at individuals who have been certified by a medical practitioner as being unable to work due to a disability.
- Assistance in applying for disability benefits: The SASSA offices offer assistance in completing applications for grants and related services.
Website: SASSA
Contact: 0800 601 011
8. Inclusive Education and Employment Resources
To ensure that people with disabilities, including wheelchair users, have access to education and employment opportunities, several programs are dedicated to inclusive education and skills development:
- The Disability Unit at Universities: Most South African universities, including the University of Cape Town and the University of Pretoria, have disability units that assist students with mobility challenges by offering support services and adapting facilities.
- Disability Employment Programs: The Employment Equity Act requires companies in South Africa to employ people with disabilities. Programs like the Disability Employment Network offer services to help people with disabilities find employment opportunities.
To raise funds for mobility aids or any related needs you can create a campaign on BackaBuddy. International Wheelchair Day highlights the challenges faced by wheelchair users and celebrates their strength and resilience. In South Africa, various organizations and services provide vital support to help wheelchair users live independently.