What we do:
1. Mobilization and sensitization
Epilepsy Support Association Uganda (ESAU)’s main activity is to mobilize people with epilepsy, their parents and guardians in support groups. Through support groups, persons with epilepsy learn from each other and share experiences on how to positively live with epilepsy. In these groups
2. Capacity building
ESAU organizes its members to elect its leaders both at Sub County and District levels. In these groups members are trained in leadership skills and income generating activities. ESAU trains volunteers in financial skills, group dynamics, records management, mobilization skills and simple counseling.
3. Lobby and advocacy
ESAU lobbies and advocates for the rights of people with epilepsy i.e. the right to regular medication, education, ownership of property etc. In this capacity ESAU engages Districts, and central Government bodies to take epilepsy as a priority and to accept PWE in the communities as important citizens who should be involved and consulted in all planning processes.
4. Networking
ESAU became a member of NUDIPU in 2004 and is represented on its board and has participated in drafting the Disability Act, National policy on PWDs and the Equal opportunities Act. ESAU has dynamic partnerships with other Disabled Peoples Organizations like Mental Health Uganda, Uganda Parents of Children with learning Difficulties. Uganda National Association of the Physically Disabled, Deaf Blind and the new initiative on persons with brain injuries.
5. Counseling and referral at the Secretariat
ESAU staff offer counseling about epilepsy, seizure management and how PWE can positively live with epilepsy. We also provide information on education and employment. At the secretariat we refer PWE to public Hospitals and Health centers for diagnosis and treatment. The secretariat also has a small documentation centre.
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