Orientation & Mobility Practitioner

Purpose of the Position: Orientation and Mobility (O&M) specialists travel through assigned districts to prepare visually impaired persons of all ages to navigate their home, workplace and community environments independently, according to their needs. Direct instruction includes home orientation, neighbourhood travel, cane techniques, travel options and circumstances. The instructor evaluates clients travel skills, plans personalized O&M programmes and guides trainees through them.   ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assessing blind and partially-sighted clients' needs for assistive devices and training them in their use. Collaborating with clients, their families and care-givers as appropriate to meet their needs. Analysing client's home environment and where appropriate modifying it according to needs. Training clients in orientation and mobility skills and those of daily living. Assessing clients' general situation, developing appropriate instructional programs and providing basic instruction. Helping clients to familiarize themselves with community transportation system. Providing in-centre and community-based instruction Involvement in public education and advocacy. Undertaking general tasks and duties as may be allocated from time to time Participating in at least four approved fundraising activities per annum Supervise and monitor the CBR workers in the execution of their duties Keep records of training with clients Liaise with funders on the instruction of the POMC   COMPETENCIES Adaptability and Flexibility Collaboration Communication and Influence Decision Making Project Management Reliability and Commitment Results Orientation and Execution Strategic thinking Teamwork   PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS A good understanding of blind ness or poor vision and their implications A currently valid manual code 08 driver's license A relevant orientation & mobility qualification Ability to communicate clearly in English and Zulu Willingness to learn sign language and become familiar with deaf culture