Raj: Treat persons with disabilities with dignity during COVID pandemic

As the cases in relation to the pandemic increase and so does our response and containment measures, equal amount of attention must be also paid to the vulnerable in our communities and how some of these measures will impact them.

It is vital for everyone to work collectively in ensuring that persons with disabilities and homeless persons are not left behind. They must be afforded dignity without discrimination. Specific steps must be taken to ensure that they have equal access to food, water, health care services, shelter, sanitation, information and the support they need to stay safe.

The Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is calling on authorities including law enforcement agencies to take cognisance of the underlying vulnerabilities of persons with disabilities and those living on our streets as this pandemic disproportionately impacts them.

For instance, it is almost impossible for persons with disabilities to practise physical distancing given that they require additional support from their caregivers.

Some persons with disabilities may not be able to wear face masks due to a disability or medical condition. It would be also difficult for such vulnerable groups to practise self-isolation.

The law enforcement agencies must ensure that persons with disabilities and their caregivers are treated with dignity and compassion if they are seen not following certain COVID safety protocols.

The commission is also requesting the caregivers of persons with disabilities to ensure that those in their care have access to emergency telephone numbers such as toll-free Helpline 158 for COVID-19 Response, 917 for Fiji Police, 1560 for National Domestic Violence Helpline and 1325 for Child Helpline.

The caregivers and family members of persons with disabilities should also ensure that assistive products such as wheelchairs, walking canes, walkers, white canes that are used in public spaces are disinfected.

Persons with disabilities, as much as avoid crowded environment.

Members of the public who wish to assist persons with disabilities particularly the elderly and children with disabilities can consider donating hand sanitiser, sanitary kits and other basic necessities which will be given to Fiji Disabled People’s Federation for distribution. Please contact the commission on 9142539 if you wish to assist or bring human rights issues to the commission’s attention. possible, should