disabilities by 2010. By the end of 2009, there were a total of 11 schools across the Maldives (three in Male’ and eight in six different atolls) that provide education opportunity for children with disabilities. Screening of school age children for disabilities has been completed in 16 atolls and there are about 2,250 children identified with disabilities in the Maldives (EDC 2009). However, only 230 children with disabilities were enrolled in schools in 2009. 13. The Government provides approved essential drugs free of charge to registered psychiatric patients, and in April 2009 there were 1,150 registered psychiatric patients. A formal list of essential psychotropic medicines is available and the green prescription medicines are available from State Trading Organization PLC (STO) pharmacies for registered psychiatric patients resident in Male’. Patients residing in an island other than Male’ have to visit the health facility available in the island and make a request for medication. 14. There are 173 residential care beds available at the Home for People with Special Needs in Guraidhoo. In mid 2009, the state was providing residential care for 119 psychiatric patients and 46 geriatric patients in the six different wards available. A seventh ward with 32 additional beds was constructed in 2009 and will become operational when furniture is made available. Altogether 120 persons are employed by the Home of whom 56 are ACTIVITIES ADDRESSING RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES engaged in direct care services. ... 10 15. A monthly allowance of Rf1500 is provided to blind persons upon certification by an ophthalmologist that the person is totally blind or legally blind. By June 2009, there were 220 persons registered as totally blind or legally blind. The assistance given to blind persons was increased from Rf500 to Rf1500 following discussions held by HRCM with concerned agencies of the Government. The financial assistance for blind people is provided monthly by the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. 16. Wheelchairs, walkers or crutches were provided to people in need of such devices until 01 January 2010. Children affected by cerebral palsy who experience difficulty sitting in normal chairs were given special seats. Spectacles were provided for children of school going age (less than 18 years), elderly people who were above 65 years of age, and for persons with disabilities. For hearing impaired persons who benefit from an assistive device, hearing aids were provided. These assistive devices were then provided by the Medical Welfare Section of the Ministry of Health and Family. Since 01 January 2010 the