Overview of the Gharaunda Scheme

The Gharaunda Scheme—an initiative under the National Trust—is designed to provide comprehensive residential care for adults with disabilities. The scheme addresses the needs of individuals with conditions such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities.

Launched under the National Trust Act, the Gharaunda Scheme aims to offer lifelong shelter and quality care to persons with disabilities (PwDs). It sets up Group Homes where adults with disabilities can live in a safe, nurturing environment. The program ensures that residents receive not just housing but also essential services tailored to their unique needs.

Purpose and Benefits of the Gharaunda Scheme

Objectives

The Gharaunda Scheme is designed to provide a secure and nurturing environment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). Its primary objectives are:

Lifelong Shelter: Ensuring that PwDs have access to permanent residential care facilities. This is crucial for individuals who may not have family support or those whose families are unable to provide long-term care.
Quality Care: Offering high-standard care services that cater to the physical, mental, and emotional needs of PwDs. This includes medical attention, therapeutic services, and daily assistance.
Enhancing Independence: Providing opportunities for PwDs to engage in vocational training and other skill-development activities aimed at enhancing their independence and quality of life.

Benefits for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

The scheme offers a variety of benefits tailored to improve the overall well-being of PwDs:

Assured Housing:

PwDs receive guaranteed residential placement in a safe and supportive environment.
Housing facilities are designed to accommodate the specific needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and comfort.

Quality Care Services:

Comprehensive medical care from qualified professionals, including regular health check-ups and emergency medical support.
Access to therapeutic services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling.
Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating.

Skill Development:

Vocational training programs aimed at enhancing employability and self-reliance.
Opportunities for PwDs to participate in various workshops and skill-building activities.

Social Inclusion:

Activities that promote social interaction and community engagement.
Support groups and recreational activities that help in building social skills and relationships.

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Services Provided under the Gharaunda Scheme

The Gharaunda Scheme encompasses a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of PwDs:

Residential Facilities:

Safe, comfortable living spaces equipped with necessary amenities.
Specialized accommodations for different types of disabilities.

Medical Care:

Regular health monitoring by healthcare professionals.
Provision of necessary medications and medical interventions.
Emergency medical services are available on-site or nearby.

Therapeutic Services:

Access to physical therapy sessions aimed at improving mobility.
Occupational therapy focuses on enhancing daily living skills.
Psychological support through counseling sessions.

Vocational Training Programs:

Training in various trades such as handicrafts, computer skills, and more.
Job placement assistance for suitable candidates.

Recreational Activities:

They are organizing group activities like sports events, cultural programs, and outings.
Encouraging participation in arts, music, dance, and other creative pursuits.

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Lifelong Shelter and Quality Care for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

Lifelong Shelter

Ensuring lifelong shelter is crucial for adults with disabilities who may lack family support or other means of independent living. Permanent housing provides:

Stability: A consistent living environment minimizes stress and anxiety.
Security: Safe spaces protect residents from potential harm or neglect.
Community Integration: Living within a supportive community helps PwDs build relationships and engage in social activities.

Quality Care

Quality care encompasses various aspects:

Medical Attention

Access to healthcare professionals ensures timely medical interventions.
Regular health check-ups help in early detection of potential health issues.

Emotional Support

Trained caregivers provide emotional stability and psychological support.
Counseling services address mental health needs.

Vocational Training

Skill development programs prepare residents for potential employment opportunities.
Enhanced skills lead to increased self-reliance and confidence.

Daily Living Assistance

Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating promotes dignity.
Personalized care plans cater to individual needs, ensuring comprehensive support.

Social Interaction

Group activities foster friendships and reduce feelings of isolation.
Social events and recreational activities enhance overall well-being.

The Gharaunda Scheme stands out as a pivotal initiative aimed at improving the lives of adults with disabilities. By offering lifelong shelter coupled with quality care, it addresses both immediate and long-term needs. This approach not only ensures a better quality of life for PwDs but also fosters an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

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Staff Requirement

Types of Staff Required at Gharaunda Centres

Ensuring quality care for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) requires a team of professionals from different fields. The Gharaunda Scheme mandates various staff types to address the diverse needs of residents:

Special Educator
Physiotherapist
Occupational Therapist
Caregivers
Ayas

Roles and Responsibilities of Each Personnel Type

Special Educator

Responsible for designing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs). They focus on enhancing cognitive skills, communication abilities, and social interactions among residents.

Physiotherapist

Focused on improving the physical mobility and overall health of PwDs. They conduct regular physiotherapy sessions to manage conditions like Cerebral Palsy and other motor impairments.

Occupational Therapist

Aims to help residents achieve independence in daily activities. They customize therapeutic interventions that enhance fine motor skills and adaptive behaviors.

Caregivers

Provide day-to-day assistance with personal hygiene, feeding, medication administration, and emotional support. Their role is crucial in maintaining the well-being of the residents.

Ayas

Assist caregivers in routine tasks such as cleaning, laundry, and other housekeeping duties. They ensure that the living environment remains clean and comfortable.

Infrastructure Facilities

Physical Infrastructure

Gharaunda Centres are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for adults with disabilities. Establishing these centers requires comprehensive planning of the physical infrastructure to meet the specific needs of residents. The infrastructure includes:

Residential Units: Comfortable living spaces equipped with necessary amenities.
Common Areas: Spaces for social interaction, recreational activities, and group therapy sessions.
Medical Rooms: Equipped with essential medical equipment for routine check-ups and emergencies.

Essential Facilities for PwDs’ Care and Comfort

Providing comfort and care is paramount at Gharaunda Centres. Essential facilities include:

Adaptive Furniture: Beds, chairs, and other furniture designed to accommodate various disability needs.
Personal Hygiene Facilities: Accessible bathrooms with grab bars, shower seats, and non-slip flooring.
Nutrition Services: Well-equipped kitchens that can cater to specialized dietary requirements.

Safety and Accessibility Features

Ensuring the safety and accessibility of Gharaunda Centres involves integrating various features:

Ramps and Elevators: For easy movement across different floors.
Emergency Exits: Clearly marked and easily accessible emergency exits in case of fire or other emergencies.
Surveillance Systems: CCTV cameras to monitor activity and ensure security.

Incorporating these elements ensures that Gharaunda Centres provide a holistic environment conducive to the well-being of residents.

Funding Pattern

The Gharaunda Scheme provides substantial financial support to ensure the sustainability and quality of care for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). This funding covers various aspects of running a Gharaunda Centre, including:

Operational Costs: Day-to-day operations, such as utilities, staff salaries, and maintenance.
Healthcare Services: Medical care, therapy sessions, and regular health check-ups.
Vocational Training: Programs aimed at improving life skills and employment opportunities for residents.
Recreational Activities: Facilities and programs designed to enhance the overall well-being and social integration of PwDs.

Funding Sources and Allocation

Funding for the Gharaunda Scheme is sourced from multiple channels to ensure comprehensive support.

Government Grants: Central and state government grants form a significant portion of the funding. These grants are allocated based on the operational needs and capacity of each Gharaunda Centre.
Donations and Sponsorships: Contributions from individuals, corporate sponsors, and non-profit organizations help supplement government funding. These donations can be in the form of monetary support or in-kind services.
Fee Contributions: While many services are subsidized, some Gharaunda Centres may charge nominal fees based on the economic status of the guardian or family. This ensures a participatory model where stakeholders contribute to the upkeep of facilities.

Role of Crisis Fund and Niramaya Health Insurance in Supporting PwDs

Crisis Fund

The Crisis Fund is an essential component designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Gharaunda Centres. This fund can be utilized in situations such as:

Natural calamities or disasters affect the centre.
Urgent medical treatments are not covered under routine healthcare provisions.
Immediate infrastructural repairs or upgrades are necessary for safety compliance.

Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme

The Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme offers comprehensive health coverage tailored specifically for PwDs. Key features include:

Wide Coverage: Covers a range of medical conditions, including pre-existing ones related to disabilities.
Cashless Treatment: Enables cashless transactions at network hospitals, easing financial burdens during medical emergencies.
Affordable Premiums: Subsidized premiums make it accessible for families across different economic backgrounds.

Both these financial mechanisms ensure that PwDs receive uninterrupted care, irrespective of unforeseen circumstances or financial constraints. By leveraging these funds effectively, Gharaunda Centres can maintain high standards of service while addressing both routine and emergency needs efficiently.

Eligibility Criteria

Requirements for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

To be eligible for the GHARAUNDA Scheme, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) must meet the following criteria:

Age Requirement: Must be over 18 years of age.
Disability Recognition: Must have a disability recognized under the National Trust Act. This includes disabilities such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities.

Criteria for Registered Organizations (ROs)

Registered Organizations (ROs) aspiring to establish Gharaunda Centres need to satisfy specific criteria:

Registration: Must be registered with the National Trust and hold valid registration under the PwD Act 1995.
Land Ownership/Lease: Must demonstrate ownership of land or a long-term lease agreement suitable for setting up a Gharaunda Centre.
Experience: Should have relevant experience in working with Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

Necessary Documentation

Both PwDs and ROs need to provide essential documentation during the application process.

For PwDs:

Enrollment Form
Proof of Birth Date
Disability Certificate
Income Certificate of the Guardian
Identification Proof

For ROs:

Address Proof
Ownership or Lease Deed Details
Self-declaration Regarding Facilities Available

Gharaunda Scheme Enrolment Process (ROs and PwDs)

Enrollment Process for Registered Organizations (ROs)

Ensure eligibility as a registered organization under the National Trust Act
Prepare necessary documentation, including registration certificates
Develop a comprehensive plan for the Gharaunda center, including infrastructure and staffing
Submit an application to the National Trust for approval
Demonstrate capacity to maintain a 1:1 ratio of LIG (including BPL) and above LIG PwDs
Prepare to accommodate a batch size of 20 PwDs (maximum 26)
Outline plans for providing lifelong shelter and care services
Detail arrangements for basic medical care from professional doctors
Describe proposed vocational and pre-vocational activities
Await approval from the National Trust
Set up the Gharaunda center as per approved plans
Begin enrolling PwDs, maintaining the required LIG/above LIG ratio

Enrollment Process for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

Confirm eligibility under the National Trust Act (autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, or multiple disabilities)
Locate a Gharaunda center in your area
Contact the Registered Organization (RO) running the Gharaunda center
Provide necessary documentation, including disability certificates
Undergo assessment for placement in the center
For LIG (including BPL) category: a. Provide income proof b. Apply for available subsidized slots
For above LIG category: a. Discuss payment terms with the RO b. Arrange for payment from family, guardians, or other sources
Complete the enrollment process with the RO
Prepare for long-term residence at the Gharaunda center
Participate in the center’s vocational and care programs as applicable

Important Link

Official Scheme Document: https://thenationaltrust.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/gharaunda_eng.pdf

Enrollment Link: https://thenationaltrust.gov.in/auth/login.php

Conclusion

The Gharaunda Scheme plays an indispensable role in enhancing the lives of Persons with Disabilities by providing lifelong shelter, quality care services, vocational training opportunities, and fostering social inclusion. Through its comprehensive approach, the scheme not only aims to address immediate needs but also focuses on long-term well-being and independence.

GHARAUNDA Scheme 2024 : Eligibility, Enrollment Process for PWDs (Residential/Respite Care)