In 2020, persons with specific needs were identified upon arrival, during home visits and/or during screenings, and their needs were responded to through referral mechanism in place. Information on persons with specific needs were updated in proGres v4 to enable UNHCR to respond to the identified needs. An average of 96 individuals were provided with psychosocial support mainly the elderly at risk, person with specific needs, and person with severe disabilities. Persons with serious or chronic medical conditions were provided with supplementary food (SOSOMA flour). Children with disabilities benefited from physical rehabilitation, engaged in individual and inclusive recreational activities. Parents were trained to provide home physical rehabilitation. Family members of children with hearing and speech impairment were trained on sign language as well as some of the service providers in collaboration with ADRA and Handicap International. UNHCR in collaboration with community-based protection partners strengthened elderly, disability committee and women to enable them to identify and take a step-in resolving issues affecting their lives.
In 2021, UNHCR will build the capacity of refugees and host communities to respond to issues affecting persons with specific needs; continue to strengthen community structures and referral systems in place; increase the accessibilities; encourage inclusiveness of persons of concern in all level of decision making; increase the number of persons of sign language trainees for people of concern and service providers to increase participation of persons with hearing and speech impairment. The list of SPN will be updated monthly in proGres v4 to enable UNHCR and partners to respond to their needs effectively.