The Minister for Gozo Anton Refalo Centre has today visited the Santa Marta Day Centre in Victoria, to inaugurate a tail-lift van, for the Centre
This van will make it possible to broaden the band of services offered by the Santa Marta Centre. Now, transport to and from the homes of disabled persons who use a wheelchair, can be completed in a single trip. The van will also ensure that everyone will have the chance to participate in activities and outings that are organised by the Centre on a regular basis.
During his visit the Minister also visited an exhibition of the work carried out at the Centre: namely an exhibition of pottery, papier Mache, looms, lace and crochet.
Dr Refalo praised the management and staff who look after those who attend the Centre with such love, care and dedication. He explained that every disabled person who first attends this Centre undergoes an assessment of their individual needs, which is carried out by various professionals in consultation with the family, and when possible, also the person concerned.
This ensures that the various programme of activities provided, are in accordance with their individual needs and tastes. The management of the Centre also offers ongoing support to parents and guardians so that disabled persons can continue to live within their family as long as possible, the Minister said.
During this visit, Dr Refalo also inaugurated an information course on computer tablets for parents and guardians of those who attend Santa Marta.
In December the Ministry presented 36 Samsung computer tablets [1] as a gift to every person who attends the Centre. Since then a meeting was held for the parents and guardians to explain the operation of the tablets, the customised programmes and lessons to be provided.
An assessment was made of the abilities and potential of each individual at the Centre in this regard to draw up an individualised programme. Now, the Minister said, the Centre is also offering lessons in IT and the computer tablet to the parents and family of those who attend the Centre.
Dr Refalo said that the response from parents and guardians were very good and the first lesson for the initial group will begin today.
Photograph: MGOZGeorge Scerri