For most people, the ability to freely go to the bathroom whenever needed does not render a second thought, however, for many children with disabilities, this is a privilege not easily afforded to them. Some disabilities can lead to incontinence, resulting in individuals requiring the use of nappies.
The issue comes into play when a large number of children with disabilities and their caregivers lack access to these basic incontinence products – largely from an affordability perspective.
As part of basic health care to South Africans, as enshrined in the Constitution, nappies should be provided free of charge to children with disabilities via state hospitals and clinics. However, as with many services to those living with disabilities, the state neglects its duties to the most vulnerable of society.
Each year, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) organises their annual Nappy Run campaign which plays a significant role in highlighting the importance of nappies. According to André Kalis, specialist for Advocacy, Policy and Children’s Matters at the NCPD, the nappy has become a symbol of the basic unmet needs and rights of children with disabilities.
“If the incontinence of children with disabilities is not accommodated through nappies, it impacts on a number of their rights. This can include anything from infringing on their right to dignity and hygiene, through to the restriction on freedom of movement,” he stated.
For low-income families, however, nappies are an unaffordable luxury, and this is why this must be provided free of charge by the state. “By not doing so, the state is infringing on these children’s human rights. Our government is leaving these children and their families to fend for themselves in unacceptable and untenable circumstances,” Kalis emphasised.
As a counter to the state’s inaction, the NCPD is using their annual Nappy Run campaign as a vehicle to raise awareness of these children’s quiet suffering. The campaign is focused on the conditions that children with disabilities live under, the continued challenges they face, as well as their rights which are violated on multiple levels. Importantly, the Nappy Run campaign raises funds to buy nappies for children with disabilities.
The Nappy Run campaign culminated in an exciting 5km fun run at the Johannesburg Zoo on National Children’s Day on 2 November; however, the NCPD still implores South Africans to consider making a donation online to help them reach their goal of reaching 55 000 nappies for this year.
“For children with disabilities, living without nappies is demeaning and cruel. By supporting the Nappy Run campaign, these children’s lives can be made considerably better and provide them with hope for the future,” Kalis concluded.
For more information about Nappy Run, or to make a donation, please visit www.nappyrun.org.za
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