MENTALLY HANDICAPPED:

• Instructions should be short, simple and concrete.

   

• They must always carry an identification (name, telephone and address).

   

• They must be taught that the first thing they should do when they get lost is show that identification.

   

• It is essential to make certain that it is never their fault if they get lost, so as not to make them lose confidence in themselves. You may approach this by saying: “Sometimes the buses change their trip because streets are being repaired.... that’s why I give you this identification so that it can help you in case you get off the bus in another place and you cannot make out where you are”.

   

• They should always ask for help: they can either approach a police officer (teach them to distinguish the uniform the same way they recognize the bus they habitually take) or ask at the station they arrive at to help them get to the police station. They should never stay in the street; it is better to enter any shop to ask for help.

   

• It is important to transmit tranquillity: "Don’t worry, if you go to the police or transport station, they will help you....”

   

(Source: Taller Protegido "Mi Rincón" de Pilar)