In the early stages of an emergency, shelter is a critical determinant of survival, along with water supply, sanitation, foodand health care. Shelter plays an essential role in reducing vulnerability and building resilience in communities.226
The shelter and settlement sector aims to ensure the dignity, privacy, safety and security of the affected population whileproviding them with protection from the climate.
During humanitarian action, the shelter and settlement sector also plays a key role in the inclusion of persons with disabilities,because of its impact on the built environment and environmental barriers and its important roles in personal protection andlivelihoods.
The cost of investing in barrier-free shelters that respect universal design principles when shelter kits are being preparedis significantly lower than the cost of adapting shelters after construction. The benefits of barrier-free shelters are feltby persons with disabilities but also children, older persons and people who are sick or injured.
Shelters should find solutions that meet the requirements of persons with all kinds of disability. In addition, they shouldallow adequate space for caregivers, support personnel and family members.
See the section on Protection, especially SGBV and HLP.
Ensure coordination with WASH.