There is considerable appreciation from service providers for the recent increase in finances provided to the budget on disability services. The enhanced funding is evidence of better understanding by the Government of the needs of persons with disabilities. However, it is difficult to evaluate how much real improvement has occurred in terms of access to this finance by those who need it and quality of services. The government does not publicise information on services and support available to persons with disabilities. Furthermore, there are no appropriate forums for discussion and formal avenues for seeking advice on particular needs. Making progress in improving access to disability supports will address some of the sector’s concerns. There are opportunities for NSPA to improve services within current funding. The continuation of programmes run by NGOs is at risk due to lack of funds. For example, Care Society has recently made an open nation-wide appeal for financial support to their programmes. Care Development Center (CDC) charges Rf 95 per child for education and rehabilitation services while the full operating costs of the CDC services for each child is Rf 1000. CDC is considering increasing the fee to Rf 150 and recognizes that most of the parents will not be able to afford to pay Rf 1000. Hence, it is critical that CDC has a continuous stream of funds to manage the centre. CDC has opened up sponsorship for 48 children under their care ACTIVITIES ADDRESSING RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES and can be supported with Rf 1000 per child, and public are encouraged to sponsor children. ... 68 9.9 Disadvantages to persons with disabilities living outside Male’ Persons with disabilities who live outside Male’ face barriers in access to government services. Some of the procedures for obtaining services require people to visit Male’ and the full costs of travel and accommodation has to be borne by the applicant. Some procedures also require people to obtain certification from IGMH doctors based in Male’. There are no psychiatrists and psychologists in the regional hospitals and physiotherapy services are also limited in the atolls. There is a need for immediate review of the procedures for access to government service and ensure that people resident in any atoll of the Maldives have equal and equitable access to services and support.