Introduction/ Rationale: NGOs are instrumental in facilitating rehabilitation programs that help in the employment of PWDs. In Mizoram with its unique geographical and cultural factors, NGOs play a significant role in enhancing work participation. There has been limited research on the challenges, and strategies used of the NGO-led intervention, particularly with an occupational therapy focus towards improved employability.
Objectives :
- To explore the experiences of NGOs in Mizoram in promoting work participation among PwDs.
- To examine its implications for occupational therapy practice in fostering social inclusion of PwDs
Methods /Approach
Study Design: A qualitative research design with an interpretive phenomenological approach.
Methods: Data was collected from five NGOs actively promoting work participation for PwDs in Mizoram on purposive sampling. Informed consent was obtained from all participants before data collection. In-depth, semi-structured interviews was conducted with the representatives of the five NGOs. The interviews was coded by the two authors inductively.
Results/Implications: Thematic analysis shows that the society is not fully aware about work participation of PwDs , accessibility issues are there in the employment of PwDs, presence of social stigma ,need for providing relevant training according to recent trends and improving the resources provided by Government.
Conclusion/ Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: The findings indicate that more awareness is required in the society for increased work participation of PwDs. Occupational therapist can help in identifying relevant training required and accessibility issues so that necessary solutions can be provided for increasing the work participation of PwDs .