SEND
PROJECTS

Transforming Lives in M’bang’ombe: Empowering people with Special Educational Needs & Disability (SEND)

In M’bang’ombe, Malawi, our SEND Programme is creating a connected network of centres that will provide essential support to children and adults with special educational needs and disabilities. By fostering education, therapy, and community inclusion, the programme empowers individuals with SEND to achieve greater independence and participate fully in society.

Our Centres

SEND Health Unit – M’bang’ombe Health Centre (opened May 2025)

The Health Unit provides comprehensive care, including identification, diagnosis, and treatment of SEND conditions. Children and adults can access occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech & language therapy, ensuring holistic support for physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Two Parent Support Groups have been formed in the local area supporting the children with special needs and changing lives of the families and cultural beliefs of ‘being cursed’ are being broken.

SEND Workshop Centre – Sam’s Village (yet to be implemented)

Here, individuals with SEND will gain access to a workshop to make handmade assistive equipment such as mobility devices, learning tools and fixing prosthetics, and orthotics. The centre will also provide training and awareness programmes for families, caregivers, and community stakeholders, helping people with SEND navigate daily life with greater independence and confidence.

M’bang’ombe SEND Ability Unit (Hope to build in 2026)

Looking ahead, we’re developing the SEND “Ability Unit” for 6 – 18 year olds, a dedicated education and therapy hub to be built at M’bang’ombe Primary School and Teaching Development Centre. This central hub offers dedicated classrooms for SEND children and ongoing training for teachers, equipping them with the skills to support students with diverse learning needs. By strengthening education and early intervention, the centre helps children reach their full potential and empowers both children with disabilities and the educators who support them.

We’re aiming to raise £100,000 to make this vision a reality, and we’ve already reached £35,000. Every donation brings us one step closer to creating a future where ability, not disability, defines a child’s path.

Thank you to Debi Peppin in supporting funds to set up the Parent Support Groups.

The SEND Programme creates lasting change in the community by:

  • Increasing Opportunities: Children and adults with SEND gain access to education, therapy, and resources to reach their potential.
  • Empowering Independence: Individuals with SEND are supported to make informed life choices and live more autonomously.
  • Fostering Inclusion: Communities build greater understanding, acceptance, and participation of people with SEND.
  • Enhancing Capacity: Teachers, caregivers, and support workers receive training to identify and support SEND needs effectively.
  • Ensuring Sustainability: Partnerships with the Malawian Government and NGOs provide long-term access to essential resources.

By providing a holistic, integrated approach, the SEND centres in M’bang’ombe are transforming lives and creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

At Unite Support Malawi, we believe every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and reach their full potential – no matter their abilities.