FARA’s NEW MENTAL HEALTH PROVISION

FARA’s new initiative for young people with learning disabilities is well underway and will take the first residents in October 2008.

There are still many young people living in appalling conditions in Romania’s state institution with no stimulation or appropriate care for those with mental health problems. It is from one of these institutions that many of the first residents will come to live at St Raphael’s Centre in Bucharest.

FARA will work in partnership with Social Services and lease a property from the local council. A suitable property has been identified near St Gabriel’s children’s home and a refurbishment programme has started on the main building with workshops being built during the summer months.

St Raphael’s will be home to 10 residents with day care also being offered to local people with learning disabilities. The building is set in over half an acre of land and our residents will be encouraged to grow flowers, fruit and vegetables. The workshops will also be available for local young people with learning disabilities to attend on a daily basis.

The service will offer an education and recovery programme, counselling and socialising – where possible reintegration into families will be encouraged.

St Raphael’s will pioneer a new philosophy of care for people with learning disabilities and FARA will provide training and clinical support from UK specialists.

FARA is again at the forefront of changing social attitudes towards young people coming from institutions and giving them a new life and a future.

FARA is seeking funds in the region of £10,000 to provide educational materials and equipment for the workshops