A study of the linkage of poverty alleviation withself-care in South Central Nepal

摘要

Background: RECLAIM CDR was an empowerment project implemented by theNepal Leprosy Trust (NLT) in four districts of Nepal. It ran from 2011 to 2016. TheRECLAIM methodology reflected that of an earlier STigma Elimination Project thatwas implemented under the title of “STEP”. What follows in this paper are the salientfindings of an independent evaluation of RECLAIM that took place in April 2016.Objectives: The main objective of RECLAIM CDR was to ascertain the extent towhich the STEP methodology might impact on poverty alleviation.Method: Quantitative data relating to: impairment status, participation, selfefficacy,and relative poverty was analysed. Qualitative methods were also used fortriangulation and to gain perspective.Results:? 50 of the self-care groups (SCG) that were established progressed to becomeself-help groups (SHG) with a total membership of 866 people.? The median score on the Grameen Progress out of Poverty Index (PPI) rosefrom 27 to 38.? There was an improvement in levels of social participation with 44% ofbeneficiaries reporting “no restriction”.? “Eye Hand and Foot” scores suggested that 68% of leprosy affected SHGmembers neither experienced improvement or deterioration in impairmentstatus.? The median self-efficacy score rose from 20 to 29.? 47 of the 50 SHGs had organized and managed a variety of activities thatdemonstrated commitment to social responsibility.Conclusion: The outcomes of the project suggest that self-care, as applied by groupsof people affected by leprosy does enhance perceived self-efficacy and that the energygenerated by such perceptions leads to more productive and fruitful lives generally.