The Challenge

Approximately one in every 59 children suffers from Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Due to its nature, each child has drastically different needs, meaning that even in highly developed countries, support and resourcing for children with ASD can be insufficient. In Egypt, resources for the support and care of children with ASD and related neurodevelopmental disorders are severely lacking, with public services and NGOs failing to fully provide individualised care for those in need. A lack of awareness and understanding of the condition among peer groups, families, and educators further exacerbates the problem. Additionally, research in Egypt has shown that children with ASD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders, are more susceptible than any other segment of society to suffering some form of abuse.

The Organisation

Based in Alexandria, BTCP runs a rehabilitation centre to receive, assess and work with children with a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, with a particular focus on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Each child received at BTCP is medically evaluated and psychologically assessed in order to create an individualised intervention plan. Regular reporting and evaluation is completed until the child has achieved the targets set at the initial evaluation, ensuring that proper and appropriate care is provided to those in need.

What has been Achieved with Alfanar's Support

Alfanar’s support has initially focussed on assisting BTCP in developing income streams to help support their activities. This has included bringing in a business planning specialist to assist the BTCP team in developing a coherent business plan which will facilitate expansion and scaling of BTCPs activities. Notably, BTCP was able to exceed predictions in achieving impact, reaching far more children than initially projected. This was partially achieved through opening two additional rehabilitation centres, supported by Alfanar’s grant.

Alfanar's Support: Looking Ahead

Alfanar’s support has aimed to improve and expand the services BTCP offers to disadvantaged and at-risk children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Financial sustainability through income generation is one of BTCP’s primary objectives; Alfanar’s pilot has also supported BTCP to increase revenues by establishing more fee-based activities, such as rehabilitation sessions and specialist training programmes. Alfanar intends to continue to assist BTCP with the expansion of income generation opportunities to further increase their sustainability.

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