AS one of the few organisations with an ongoing presence in Burma, the Leprosy Mission is appealing for funding for its project working with disabled people affected by Cyclone Nargis. In the aftermath of a disaster, people with disabilities are one of th

AS one of the few organisations with an ongoing presence in Burma, the Leprosy Mission is appealing for funding for its project working with disabled people affected by Cyclone Nargis.

In the aftermath of a disaster, people with disabilities are one of the most vulnerable groups. As well as being traumatised, those with physical and sensory impairments are often unaware of the relief and rehabilitation services available and are unable to access them.

With initial funding, the Leprosy Mission has already begun locating and providing emergency relief to people with disabilities. However, in order to expand the work and provide continuing assistance, more money is needed to fund the project.

The Leprosy Mission intends to use its experience in leprosy and disability work to rebuild the lives of over 1,500 people with disabilities, living in the delta and Yangon regions, who have been severely affected by the cyclone.

Dr Griffiths, the Leprosy Mission's country co-ordinator for Burma, stresses the importance of supporting people into rehabilitation as quickly as possible, saying this process should start immediately to reduce risk of disease outbreak.

Existing facilities for disabled people (including residential and training centres for adults and children) have been severely damaged, placing large numbers of vulnerable people at risk.

The Leprosy Mission's project will restore these facilities and repair or replace disability aids. The charity will also work to repair and re-install community livelihood equipment (grain mills and transport) and rebuild people's houses to re-establish long-term sustainability. The Leprosy Mission will also operate a referral service for international and local NGOs operating in affected areas to support people with disabilities to access relief and development assistance.

To make a donation please contact the Leprosy Mission on 01733 370505 or visit the website www.leprosymission.org.uk

The Leprosy Mission is an international Christian development organisation, transforming the lives of people affected by leprosy. Our goal is to eradicate the causes and consequences of this disease.

We work in around 28 countries where leprosy remains both a chronic disease and a social problem. We have served people affected by leprosy since 1874.

HELEN HUTHWAITE

The Leprosy Mission

Orton Goldhay

Peterborough