Advocacy group aims to tackle the problems the disabled face

“It’s not easy for people to understand all the needs of the disabled,” says Shaikh Mohammed Bavazeer. Pawan Singh / The National

AJMAN // Poorly installed ramps that are too steep and dedicated washrooms that are too small for wheelchairs are among the many problems the disabled face but they may elude the notice of the able-bodied.

Polio sufferer Shaikh Mohammed Bavazeer hopes to tackle these problems with the help of Disability A Perception, a non-profit advice and support group.

“It’s not easy for people to understand all the needs of the disabled,” said the financial consultant, who drives a modified car with hand-controlled brake and gears.

“Sometimes ramps are so high that a wheelchair slides back, so you need someone to help you, or in a dedicated washroom there is no space to turn in a wheelchair. It’s difficult for people to access their accounts in some banks or ATMs and we give our card to someone to get our money.”

Muna Al Dahmani, who works with the Ministry of Education in Abu Dhabi, is one of the group’s founders. She hopes to change perceptions of the disabled among Emiratis.

“The first step is to make locals and non-locals who are disabled come out of their homes and mix with people,” said Ms Al Dahmani. “Most disabled people feel shame. Some are shy to even meet family members, so we hope this will make them open to others.”

Connecting with government organisations can help to address concerns about accessibility for the disabled.

“We are locals so we can find out from others how to help people get licences, help for health care,” Ms Al Dahmani said.

“These are our sisters and brothers, we must make them feel valued.”

Sajjad Ahmed Dor, an air-conditioner repairman, was paralysed after a road accident in India four years ago.

His family has since been relying on his his wife’s earnings from babysitting, as well as help from family and friends.

A chance meeting with Mr Bavazeer in an Ajman mall helped him to rethink his outlook on life. “He has encouraged me to be independent because when you go to people for help they may help once or twice but not continuously,” Mr Dor said.

“Shaikh is disabled, but has struggled and worked hard. It made me think that instead of being tense and worried, I must think of what I can do to take on responsibility. I can use my hands, so if I get a licence I can start a pick-and-drop service.”

Disability A Perception is raising funds to provide a modified vehicle to Mr Dor.

Khalid Bashir, a supervisor at the Arabian Driving Institute who taught Mr Bavazeer to drive, said it was vital to help the disabled gain self-confidence.

For his part, Mr Bavazeer hopes to help others in turn. “I want to help others realise they can transform their lives. Sometimes just talking to someone who faces a similar problem can help,” said Mr Dor.