Our Philosophy
We’re centred around the belief in the inherent worth and potential of every individual, recognising that each resident has unique strengths, abilities, and aspirations. We view our beneficiaries as active participants in their own therapy and respect their autonomy and dignity throughout the process. We, therefore, embrace a person-centred philosophy that guides our approach and interactions with the residents under our care.
Furthermore, we are committed to providing compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care. We aim to empower individuals, promote their well-being, and foster a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and meaningful participation in their communities.
Above all, our philosophy is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our residents.
Centre Profile
The Vrystaat Nasorgsentrum (Free State Residential Care Centre) was founded in 1981 and is a registered NPO (NPO 002-795) with Article 18A status. The Centre comprises of 5 hostels and 2 houses at Bloemendal Road, Rayton, in the City of Bloemfontein, Mangaung Metro.
The Centre provides specialised and affordable accommodation in a safe environment with 24-hour care to adults between the ages 18-60 with intellectual disabilities. The aim is for beneficiaries to become as actively involved in society as possible, to live with dignity, security and community, and to experience a life which is meaningful.
A large number of the current residents are orphans or come from a disadvantaged socio-economic background.
The Centre is administrated by a Governing Board which consists of professional people from the community, two of which (according to the Constitution) should be a parent/family member of existing residents. We are dedicated to providing a warm and nurturing environment for all our residents. The support services we offer our beneficiaries include professional nursing, occupational therapy, social work and recreational activities. Our professional staff are required to develop individualised care plans for each resident.
The Centre offers protected workshops where beneficiaries with intellectual disabilities get the opportunity to develop and practice various occupational skills. Beneficiaries also work in the laundry, cleaning services, kitchen, garden and maintenance areas of the Centre. Transport is provided for beneficiaries to and from the Centre, and to various medical and other services not provided on the premises
Vrystaat Nasorgsentrum is primarily dependent on subsidies from the Department of Social Development and family contributions for its survival. Partnerships with the business community and civil society, are important to secure a safe and sustainable living and working environment for our beneficiaries.
We empower through:
Assessment and Evaluation
Comprehensive evaluations are conducted to assess the residents’ physiological, physical, cognitive, sensory, and psychosocial functioning. This helps in understanding their strengths, challenges, and individual needs.
Individualized Treatment Plans
Based on the assessment results, personalized treatment plans are developed to address specific goals and promote optimal functioning. These plans may include therapeutic activities, exercises, adaptive strategies, and interventions tailored to each resident’s unique needs.
Rehabilitation, Skill Development, Functional Training and Education
The centre focuses on rehabilitating and enhancing residents’ abilities in various areas, such as activities of daily living (dressing, grooming, meal preparation, money management, time management, community mobility, work skills, social skills, and communication skills).
Assistive Devices, Equipment Recommendations, & Remediation
The need for assistive devices, adaptive equipment, and modifications to the living environment are assessed to enhance residents’ independence and safety.
Social and Emotional Support
Social skills training, and emotional support to help residents develop social connections, build meaningful relationships, and manage their emotions effectively.
Community Integration and Participation
The centre assists residents in transitioning and integrating into the community. This may involve facilitating access to community resources, recreational activities, vocational training, and support in securing sheltered employment opportunities.
Caregiver Education and Training
Team members provide education and training to caregivers and instructors, equipping them with knowledge and strategies to support the residents’ therapeutic and medical goals and promote overall well-being