Bermuda is launching its first national register of disabled persons, the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors has announced.

There will be a registration drive at City Hall today from 11am to 4pm and ministry staff will be on hand to provide assistance with the registration process.

Interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing will also be available to support those wishing to register.

The National Disability Register will be created using digital technology to collect data.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, encouraged caregivers and those with a disability to register.

She said: “Persons with disability are more likely to be impacted by society inequalities. Through our first-ever National Disability Register, the ministry will keep a centralised database of the types of disabilities persons are challenged with to help assess the gaps in the demand for services and special equipment. This aims to ensure no one is left behind.

“New, in-depth data collected by the registry will guide policy in healthcare, education and accessibility initiatives to facilitate targeted support and deliver appropriate resources to advance inclusivity in Bermuda.”

The ministry gained support from the United Nations Development Programme office in Jamaica, where representatives provided input on the development of an app and financial support for the development of the project.

There will be pop-up stalls at the drive, run by government departments, community organisations and support agencies.

Ms Furbert added: “I encourage all to attend the event to be part of this significant milestone and to learn more about the National Disability Registry, including the existing programmes available to support persons with disabilities.”