Who is regarded as a person with a disability?
According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of persons with Disabilities, persons with disabilities are defined as “Those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments, which hinders their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.”

How do I become a client of the Association?
Upon discharge from hospital, the hospital social workers will refer you to this Association for further support. We will contact you and arrange an interview. During this interview, the social worker and yourself will plan your future. Regular visits between the social worker and yourself make sure that this plan is followed. We will organise the support and services you need, with the goal of increasing your ability to such an extent that you no longer need the Association’s services, and once again take part in the community on all levels.
You may also contact any of our Branches directly, and request that a social worker pay you a visit.
Make sure you have copies of your ID document, any doctor’s letters, and any questions you may have ready, for when you meet the social worker.

How does one apply for a disability grant?
The Association’s social workers will assist with applications for a disability grant for clients. Alternatively, contact your nearest district office of the Department of Social Development. Click here for more information.

Do persons with disabilities receive any benefit from the State?
Yes. Besides a disability grant, which is optional, persons with disabilities are able to apply for a rebate on the customs duty for purchasing a imported motor vehicle. They may also apply for a certificate from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism granting permission for them to use their motor vehicle in a coastal zone, so as to make use of our beaches. This only applies to persons with severe mobility impairments.

Conditions lead to disability?
A downloadable PDF of conditions leading to disability appears on this website under Community Awarness. Click here.

Are residential facilities available for persons with disabilities?
Yes. You may contact us for a list of facilities in the Western Cape.

Is the Association able to help me find employment?
Unfortunately not, but we are able to refer you to organisations and companies who deal specifically with placement of persons with disabilities in the open labour market.

How can I go about making my accommodation/ work premises accessible?
The way in which the environment is developed and organised contributes, to a large extent, to the level of independence and equality that people with disabilities enjoy. There are a number of barriers in the environment which prevent disabled people from enjoying equal opportunities with non-disabled people, among these physical, architectural barriers.  It is extremely important that a qualified access consultant with the necessary qualifications and expertise conducts an audit of your premises, including a detailed report of recommendations, and that this person-

Refer to Disability Solutions for further information www.disabilitysolutions.co.za

What are my rights as a person with a disability with regard to employment?
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Article 27, states that : State Parties recognise the right of persons with disabilities to work, on an equal basis with others; this includes the right to the opportunity to gain a living by work freely chosen or accepted in a labour market and work environment that is open, inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities.  South Africa signed and ratified this Convention, which means that the State may be held accountable in terms of the Convention.  The Employment Equity Act No. 55 of 1998 protects people with disabilities against unfair discrimination in the workplace and directs employers to implement measures to redress discrimination.  Unfortunately, while the best legislation is in place, the reality in the workplace is not always favourable to the employment of persons with disabilities.

Where can I go for help / advice on choosing a suitable wheelchair / buggy?
Western Cape Rehabilitation Centre Seating Clinic, (021) 370-2433

I am trying to get my child into a school, but am coming up against major obstacles because of his/her disability – is there anyone who can advise me?
Inclusive Education is defined as a learning environment that promotes the full personal, academic and professional development of all learners irrespective of race, class, gender, disability, religion, culture, sexual preference, learning styles and language. [NCSNET/ NCESS 1998]. For further information, contact Inclusive Education Western Cape on included@mweb.co.za or the Department of Education on http://curriculum.wcape.school.za/site/40/page/view/

Where can I find out about accessible holiday accommodation?
Visit www.disabledtravel.co.za for a list of accommodation visited and utilised by persons with disabilities.

Disclaimer: This website does not claim to list accessible accommodation, merely details of accommodation previously used by persons with disabilities.  Western Cape APD cannot be held responsible for reservations made at accommodation which is subsequently found to be inaccessible for the individual’s specific needs.  It is the individual’s responsibility to ensure that the required accommodation meets his/her specific needs.