APT Kenya
The APT Kenya project addresses the needs of children who lack access to the essential postural support equipment they need. Our mission is to provide these children with appropriate equipment such as chairs, standing frames and wheelchair inserts that are tailored to their individual needs and not only aid physical stability but also promote social inclusion, allowing children to participate more fully in their communities and daily activities.
Not only is the APT Kenya project changing children's lives, it is also providing an income for families. Caregivers from the families that Jabori Foundation works with are employed to paper and paint the devices and this is helping them to feed their family and pay school fees for their children.
Despite the overwhelming need for such devices, families rarely have access to them or can afford them. As a result, we see many children confined to their home and spending their days lying on the floor or bed and unable to participate in family life or be part of the wider community. Being in an upright functional position is essential for physical and social development as well as for eating and safe swallowing. Without good postural management, children can have an isolated and often painful existence.
WHAT IS APT?
Appropriate Paper-based Technology (APT) is a low-cost, sustainable solution for bespoke postural supports for children with disabilities using recycled cardboard and paper. Items are constructed using engineering principles and are both strong and light-weight. Three layers of thick corrugated cardboard are layered and glued together using a paste made from flour and water. This forms a strong board on which the device can be drawn. After cutting, the pieces are slotted together and then tied using used nylon tights. The structure is reinforced with strips and rods of thin cardboard, which are then covered with newspaper and finally a layer of thick paper, such as that used for bags of flour. Decoration of the device completes the process. All materials are locally sourced.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
These devices are prescribed by a qualified therapist and made to fit the child's individual needs. They help the child to maintain a comfortable and functional position in either sitting or standing. Having good postural management helps prevent contractures, spinal deformity and can improve digestion, bowel function and maintain skin integrity. The equipment also enables the child to play and communicate with those around them, increasing both the amount and the quality of their participation in home activities, as well as increasing independence, developing communication and social skills and improving quality of life.
Feedback has shown that after having a device, other children, neighbours and family are more willing to talk and play with the child. Having such a project in the heart of the community and involving community members is helping to break down the barriers and stigma that families with children with disabilities face and it is raising awareness of disability.
The APT Kenya project is supported by
