PEOPLE living with physical and mental challenges are often faced with obstacles other than their conditions, which means they often long for a place of acceptance, sometimes for almost all of their lives.

Read also: Durban North student hopes to inspire youth through new book

However, those who have made Northbay Lodge their home have found their happy and safe place.

There are only a few existing facilities that cater for the holistic needs of those with physical and mental challenges, and Northday Lodge in Uitsig Road, Durban North, is one of them.

The property on which the non-profit facility is situated was donated by Golden Hours School Governing Body in 2010 as part of the Durban and Coastal Mental Health Project. It then evolved into Northbay Lodge, where residents can remain until they become too frail or ill and require specialised care.

Speaking to Northglen News this Human Rights Month – Human Rights Day is coming up on March 21 – the manager of the home, Sharmaine Singh, said she wants to create awareness around the right for people with physical and mental disabilities to medical, psychological and functional treatment.

“Here, residents feel loved, safe and happy. When people think of a home of this nature, their thoughts are synonymous with residents living in a prison-like environment with nothing stimulating for them to do, but the facility is nothing like that,” she said.

“Apart from top treatment and a comfortable stay, residents take part in social and sporting activities. They have also learnt how to manage their money and can go out and purchase their own groceries and eat out at a restaurant. For some, these were things they were not able to do alone before. It’s liberating for them, and as a facility, we aim to ensure that our residents lead full and happy lives,” said Singh.

Residents also take part in ball and ground activities and morning yoga, they go on morning walks and also take part in the Imvula Games, which are specifically designed for people living with mental and physical challenges.

“Feeling included is important to residents’ well-being and ensuring that they thrive. We also started a birthday wall where everyone’s birth dates are displayed. It makes residents so happy, and they feel so important to see their special day coming up. Of course, we celebrate birthdays,” said Singh.

Knitting and beading, golf and movie days also feature on their activities calendar.

“Representation matters so we ensure that whoever can be involved in an activity or event is involved,” she said.

To learn more about Northbay Lodge, visit www.northbaylodge.co.za

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok