GHR Foundation funds disability training for This Life social workers

Children with disabilities are among the most marginalized and vulnerable groups in Cambodia. They face many barriers to accessing education, health care, and social services, as well as stigma and discrimination from society. To address these challenges, This Life is working tirelessly to provide effective and inclusive support to children with disabilities and their families.

In a significant step towards achieving this goal, CIF recently organized a three-day training program for social workers from seven partner NGOs. The training, held in Phnom Penh from August 16 to 18, 2023, was generously funded by the GHR Foundation. Its primary objective was to enhance the knowledge, skills, and empathy of the social workers to identify and understand the needs of children with disabilities.

The training emphasized the importance of adhering to the policies and guidelines set by the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation (MoSVY) in order to offer appropriate services and support. One of the highlights of the training was the participation of Mr. San Ratana, the Director of the Department of Welfare of People With Disabilities, who shed light on the rights of children with disabilities in Cambodia. He also discussed the government’s efforts to implement the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Over the course of the training, 23 participants from respected organizations such as First Step Cambodia, M’Lop Tapang, M’lup Russey Organization, Angkor Hospital of Children, Children In Families, and Holt International gathered to learn from four experienced social workers from CIF. These trainers shared insightful practices and approaches to working with children with disabilities. The training sessions included a range of interactive activities, including role plays, group discussions, case studies, and quizzes, allowing the participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge and receive feedback from both the trainers and their fellow attendees.

The social workers expressed immense gratitude and conveyed that the training had been informative, practical, and highly relevant to their work. They reported learning new information and skills that they can apply to support children with disabilities in a more effective and respectful manner. Additionally, they mentioned experiencing a significant boost in confidence and empathy while interacting with this particular group of children.

This Life and and our partners are unwaveringly dedicated to improving the lives of children with disabilities in Cambodia. We are committed to providing quality care and support that respects the dignity and rights of every child. We firmly believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

To support the work of This Life, please consider making a donation by visiting www.thislife.ngo/donate.

Your contribution, no matter how small, can truly make a difference in the lives of these deserving children.

Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowering society for children with disabilities in Cambodia.