Fronting up for the Disabled in Tonga

Adequate housing (see photo) and equipment for the disabled is in short supply and many children and adults have only the floor to sleep on and many have no assisted mobility are there is a high shortage of wheelchairs and other mobility aids. A centre for the severely disabled in Tonga has in excess of 130 infants, children and adults that they support and there is no government or community assistance generally as sadly disability stigma, i.e. negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours are still directed towards individuals with disabilities. This significantly impacts the lives of people with disabilities, leading to social isolation, reduced access to opportunities, and mental health challenges .