A study to measure the Impact of Participation in Self-help Groups on Livelihood, Economic Empowerment and Community Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities (PWD)
GRAAM in collaboration with Cornell University's Yan Tang Institute (YTI) conducted a qualitative study to provide a deeper understanding of the impact of participation in SHGs established by The Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP) in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on livelihood, economic empowerment and community inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWD). This study was a follow up of the earlier quantitative study conducted to evaluate the impact of SERP’s activities on PWD and their families.
Project Snapshot:
| Project Name | A study to measure the Impact of Participation in Self-help Groups on Livelihood, Economic Empowerment and Community Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) |
| Project Sanction Date | 02 May 2015 |
| Project Period | May 2015 to Jun 2016 |
| Project Location | Telangana, Andra Pradesh |
| Project Supported By |
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| Project Team |
Project objectives:
The focus of the qualitative study was to understand the process of implementation, existing systemic and societal opportunities and hindrances and pathways to make a positive impact on the lives of PWD. The evaluation looked at levels of alignment of SERPs activities with best practices using the community-based rehabilitation (CBR) framework.
Project Result / Accomplishments:
Summary findings
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Activities |
Out comes |
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Provision of social entitlements like disability certificates, enrolment into social pensions schemes, bus/train passes |
Social and economic benefits were the benefits cited most often because of participation in SHGs. Political empowerment was marginal. Further, the number of participants expressing no significant gains was moderately high. |
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Provision of savings, subsidized loans and monitoring the utilization of finances |
PWD utilized the financial opportunities gained from SHGs mostly for agriculture and allied activities, funding petty businesses and household expenses. Many participants felt that without the SERP SHGs, they wouldn't have had access to loans, social entitlements or rehabilitation devices. |
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Monthly meetings and affinity group activities |
Prior to SHG involvement, PWD reported marginalization, discrimination and disconnectedness from society. Majority of respondents reported increased independence, societal recognition and financial improvement upon joining a SHG |
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Provision of rehabilitation services |
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Involvement in local government and community activities |