The Leprosy Mission England and Wales

Heal Nepal will improve health, dignity and wellbeing of 2,136 people affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF) from 11 highly endemic districts in southern Nepal. It will support 1349 Government community health volunteers to use highly effective methods to identify, diagnose, treat and manage leprosy and LF and complications and prevent disability. It will support 1,379,657 community members to develop less discriminating attitudes towards leprosy and LF, and higher tolerance for patients receiving treatment, through a thought-provoking awareness campaign. People at risk of infection will access early diagnosis and preventive prophylaxis. The project will support managing leprosy and LF complications and prevent stigmatising and irreversible disabilities using highly effective clinical innovations. It will create safe spaces for patients to explore inner strengths, improve self-image and wellbeing, and advocate for rights.

1. Unemployed disabled people aged 18-45 years with academic qualifications 2. Unemployed disabled people aged 18-45 years with vocational qualifications 3. Unemployed disabled people aged 18-45 years with no qualifications 4. Those aged 18-60 who are currently carers for unemployed disabled people. COVID-19 Rapid Response project: 1. Medical staff at Anandaban Hospital will be trained to respond to COVID-19. 2. Local community residents and people affected by leprosy showing symptoms will be tested for COVID-19 and positive cases will receive critical care. 3. Households in the 5 targeted districts, particularly those affected by leprosy and disability, will receive emergency food and sanitation packages.