The Disability Inclusive Ultra-Poor Graduation (DIUPG) program, implemented by BRAC, is an adaptation of the Ultra-Poor Graduation model designed to address the multidimensional needs of ultra-poor households that include persons with disabilities by combining mainstream poverty reduction tools such as asset transfers, savings, and enterprise development with disability-specific interventions including rehabilitation, psychosocial support, assistive devices, and linkages to social protection. This report presents findings from the second round of a qualitative study that followed ten participants across two regions of Bangladesh and examined program implementation, participant engagement, and emerging outcomes across health, livelihood, social inclusion, and social protection through in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, case histories, and observations. Findings show that the program delivered integrated and individualized support that contributed to improvements in mobility, functional independence, emotional regulation, self-confidence, family relationships, hygiene practices, and proactive health-seeking behaviour. Enterprise support contributed to greater household stability, improved food security, modest asset accumulation, and diversified income sources, although most enterprises remained at a subsistence level and participation varied. The program also reduced stigma, encouraged more respectful treatment, strengthened access to disability allowances, healthcare, and other services, and improved social inclusion. Despite positive outcomes, challenges included shortages of technical staff, delays in assistive devices, limited health budgets, logistical barriers, and administrative delays, highlighting the need for stronger technical staffing, improved health support, and more scalable enterprise strategies.
Autors: Mohce, Tahasin Tasnim; Gomes, Mohima; Rahman, Md. Ashikur; and Kamruzzaman, Md
Type: Report
Year: 2025
