The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services (MPSDFS) has taken significant strides in operationalising the National Enrichment Centre (NEC), located at #1 Connector Road, Carlsen Field, reaffirming the Government of Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to strengthening services for persons with disabilities, particularly children with disabilities, in its first phase.
During Fiscal Year 2025, the Ministry advanced critical groundwork to establish the Centre as a nationally integrated facility designed to deliver coordinated, high-quality therapeutic, rehabilitative and support services across the lifespan, with a primary emphasis on paediatric and developmental care. The Centre aims to improve equitable access to specialised services while strengthening support systems for families and caregivers.
The National Enrichment Centre will provide a comprehensive range of multidisciplinary services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, behavioural therapy, psychological services and developmental assessments. Future phases will further enhance holistic care through the introduction of creative and recreational therapies such as music, art and aqua therapy.
In support of this vision, the Ministry engaged in high-level discussions with the Ministry of Health (MOH) in July 2025, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement in November 2025. This strategic partnership established the governance framework, operational protocols and clinical oversight mechanisms necessary to ensure sustainable service delivery at the Centre.
Since formalisation of the partnership, key milestones have been achieved, including the relocation of the Disability Affairs Unit to the facility in November 2025, the hosting of a Hearing Screening Session in December 2025 in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Association for the Hearing Impaired, and the commencement of administrative operations by clinical personnel from the Child Development Clinic, South West Regional Health Authority.
Clinical services officially commenced at the National Enrichment Centre on February 2, 2026 and are currently being offered by appointment only. Persons can call 623-2608 Ext. 1174 for further information on clinical services offered at the Centre. For further information on other services for persons with disabilities offered by the MPSDFS, please call 623-2608 Ext. 1159.
The Ministry continues to advance efforts to engage additional service providers, with the rollout of expanded therapy services expected in the coming months, as it works steadily toward the full operationalisation of this vital national facility.