Supporting families to cope with children with disability through discourse, innovation and best practices in cameroon.

Authors

Nain Mirabel Yuh, Alvin Lontum, Patrick Okwen

Deposit Date September 2020
Source https://openresearchafrica.org/documents/3-44

 

Summary 
This paper presents a project aimed at improving the livelihoods of People With Disabilities (PWD) in Bamenda, Cameroon, by addressing gaps in policy implementation through family and community-centered approaches. The study utilized computer-assisted software, evidence-based practices, and the innovative eBASE Family Centered Evidence Toolkit for Disability (EFCETD) to engage families and stakeholders in policy processes. Through formative research, including interviews and focus groups, the project identified barriers such as political crisis, stigma, and financial constraints, as well as current practices and coping strategies. The toolkit was used by community health workers to audit households and incentivize compliance with evidence-based recommendations. Key outcomes included increased family participation in decentralized policy structures, advocacy for relaxed disability card procedures, and improved access to services for children with disabilities. The study highlights the importance of stakeholder engagement and family involvement in effective policy implementation for PWD.