Plan to help children with disabilities

UAE CABINET ALSO APPROVES MOTHERHOOD AND CHILDHOOD STRATEGIC PLAN

Cabinet approves strategy to promote the rights of children with disabilities and maximise their well-being |

T he UAE Cabinet approved a national strategy to promote the rights of children with disabilities and maximise their well-being, and a strategy for motherhood and childhood, as part of the Strategic Plan for the Rights of Children with Disabilities 2017-2021, and the National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood 2017-2021.

Both Strategies were prepared under the directives of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, as a key reference for decision makers.

“People with disabilities represent an integral component of UAE society and have the right to enjoy a happy and dignified life like other community groups,” said His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. “The UAE attaches special importance to supporting children with disabilities and enabling them to play a constructive and effective role in the development and the achievement of UAE national agenda and vision for 2021,” Shaikh Mohammad added.

The Strategic Plan for the Rights of Children with Disabilities 2017-2021 is derived from the UAE Vision 2021, notably the provisions of a long, healthy life, an optimal education system and an integrated lifestyle. The plan was developed following a study involving a number of organisations across the UAE. The plan aims to provide top quality medical care and social services to children with disabilities and contribute to their integration into society. It will boost efforts to support children with disabilities and improve services and facilities for them.

The National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood 2017-2021 was also approved by the Cabinet in line with the government commitment to promote and protect mothers’ and children’s rights.

The first draft of the strategy was prepared based on recommendations included in a study of children and adolescents that took into account health, education and other related criteria. The team conducting the study also consulted with 45 federal and local entities including the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Community Development, Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, Ministry of Education and Dubai Health Authority, among other international organisations.