DEVELOPMENT OF A COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICE FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN BULGARIA

Background: Community-based social services in Bulgaria are growing in number regionally and nationally. They can be provided by public and private providers, registered with the Agency for Social Assistance. Occupational... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
Community-based social services in Bulgaria are growing in number regionally and nationally. They can be provided by public and private providers, registered with the Agency for Social Assistance. Occupational therapy was introduced in Bulgaria in 2006. The Association of Bulgarian Ergotherapists, founded in 2010, made successful steps for the official recognition of the occupational therapists in the services for people with disabilities.
Method:
In 2013 ABET opened a small service for children and families with the financial support of an international trust. The objective of the project is to provide services for children and young adults with disabilities in Ruse with focus on support for school inclusion, occupational and physical therapy for those living with families or in group homes and motivation for participation in local community. The centre provides assessment and consultancy, individual sessions; group work for children and parents, home visits, as well as school based occupational therapy for physically disabled and socially disadvantaged children.
Results:
From May 2013 to August 2015 services were provided to 146 children and 74 parents/caregivers. Support is provided in all areas of children’s life – self-care, leisure and school, engaging families in the process.
Conclusion:
Occupational Therapy is the added value to all existing community-based services for children. It is highly appreciated by the parents and caregivers and needs focus on its further development.
Application to Practice:
This is the first service in Bulgaria, specialized in providing OT services and aiming to become a model of good practice for the country.