On October 26, the team went through the following two activities:
On-campus Work
We reached the I-D-I building’s workspace allotted to us and began working on the presentation requested by Mr. Joaquín Francisco Roca González. Additionally, our team also worked on furthering WP1’s Task 1.2 and completed various portions of the chapter for the same. After that, we were invited for a special lunch by Ms. Paqui Rosique and Mr. Rafael Hernández Arnaiz in the I-D-I building’s canteen.
Visit to ASTUS
Post-lunch, we went to the Hospital de Caridad, where we were taken by Mr. Joaquín Francisco Roca González, Ms. Paqui Rosique, and Mr. Rafael Hernández Arnaiz to visit ASTUS, an organisation that is part of Plena Inclusion. ASTUS, with its roots dating back to 1967, stands as a beacon of hope for families with children facing cognitive challenges. During our visit, we discovered the myriad ways in which ASTUS is transforming lives and promoting a more inclusive society.
Early intervention and rehabilitation
At the heart of ASTUS is a charity-run hospital that provides essential services for children from families facing financial constraints. This hospital, operating under the “Red Pública Regional de Servicios Sociales,” focuses on early intervention and medical-functional rehabilitation. It caters to children aged 0 to 6 and those between 6 and 16 who experience cognitive disabilities. These students are recommended by their teachers to visit this centre, given their cognitive challenges.
Individualised care and skill development
What sets ASTUS apart is its commitment to individualised care. Each case is studied meticulously, and recommendations are made regarding whether the child should be addressed at the school centre or at the hospital. While they do not engage directly with the curriculum, ASTUS equips these children with the necessary skills for success in education and life. Services range from physiotherapy to workshops on social skills and occupational therapy.
Fostering autonomy and employability
ASTUS goes beyond education, emphasising the development of skills that empower individuals for life. They offer programmes aimed at enhancing autonomy, including employability ograms. This includes counselling for employment and skills relevant to vocational studies. Individuals are trained in areas like gardening and cargo handling, aligning with their work integration efforts.
Collaboration with companies and associations
ASTUS collaborates directly with companies and associations that provide employment to individuals with special needs. This collaboration extends to supporting the individuals’ development. The vocational education provided by ASTUS results in a special certificate that holds validity at both national and regional levels. Their degrees are certified by a local high school, ensuring the quality of their education.
Support Throughout the Employment Process
ASTUS doesn’t just prepare individuals for employment; it guides them through the entire process. This includes preparing for job interviews, offering counselling, and accompanying individuals to their workplaces to ensure appropriate training. The focus is on classical work preparation and training, with a strong emphasis on interpersonal and social skills crucial for the workplace.
Advocating for Inclusivity and Sensitising the Population
ASTUS has a wider mission beyond direct services. They actively work on sensitising the general population about inclusion. They visit schools to spread awareness and the values of inclusion. The university has also reached out to explore opportunities for collaborative projects, aiming to create a more inclusive society.
ASTUS is an outstanding example of how organisations can make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals with cognitive challenges and their families. By adhering to the principles of inclusivity, empowerment, and individualised care, ASTUS is contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society.
