Dissertation submitted in part fulfilment of the requirements for a Masters degree at the Centre for International Health and Development (CIHD) at University College London (UCL) Institute of Child Health (ICH) The user has given permission for the uploaded document to be reproduced and made publi ... cly available on the source website more

Many groups in sub-Saharan Africa have historically linked persons with disabilities with witchcraft as a component of a wider link between accusations of witchcraft and socially marginalized populations. It is commonly assumed that traditional prejudices towards persons with disabilities are recedi ... ng in light of urbanization, education, mass media and efforts to confront such prejudice and stigma by governments, disability advocates and civil society. Ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) by many African countries is considered an additional impetus for change. Working Paper Series: No. 30 more

Despite gains in childhood survival, more effort is needed to improve the well-being of children with developmental delays and disabilities. All children, including children with developmental delays and disabilities, need nurturing care. Nurturing care can contribute to preventing developmental del ... ays and protect children who are exposed to risk factors, as well as improve functioning and long-term outcomes for children with developmental disabilities. This Brief outlines why and how nurturing care is relevant for children with developmental delays and disabilities. Recognizing that these children have diverse needs requiring different levels of coordinated and family-centred support, it recommends a set of actions to strengthen policies, services, communities and caregiver capabilities so that these children receive nurturing care. more