SUMMARY OF RESEARCH PROJECTS
Economic costs of disability-related stigma in Viet Nam: Implications for
disability-inclusive and poverty reduction policies (2009-2011)
Researchers
Le Bach Duong, Director, Institute for Social Development Studies, Viet Nam
Hoang Van Minh, Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Ha Noi Medical University
Kim Bao Giang, Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Ha Noi Medical University
Nguyen Thanh Liem, Institute for Social Development Studies, Viet Nam
Vo Thi Hoang Yenr, Disability Research and Capacity Development
Nossal Institute for Global Health, University of Melbourne
Email Address: duonglb@gmail.com
Aims
This research evaluates the economic and human development impacts of disability related stigma
on individuals, households and society in Viet Nam. The project also aims to build the research
capacity of relevant government and civil society groups working on disability in Viet Nam as well as
policy advocacy and public awareness raising.
Methodology
This is a population-based survey in six provinces as well as the country’s two largest cities, Ha Noi
and Ho Chi Minh City, in Viet Nam. In particular, the study examines various forms of stigma and
discrimination against people with disability, and estimates of economic costs associated with living
with disability and disability-related stigma at the household level. Research data were collected in
2011.
Outcomes
The Report has shown that the cost of living with disability in Viet Nam is substantial, accounting for
about 8.8-9.5 percent of annual household income. The costs of living with disability in Viet Nam
were higher among households with person with disability aged 60 years old and over, among
households with female people with disability and household with people with disability located in
urban area. It also showed that the costs of living with disability increased as people had more
severe impairment. Report produced in English and Vietnamese.
Significance
This study has not only contributed to the existing literature on the close relationship been disability
and poverty but also provides some insights into the vicious cycle among disability, stigma and
poverty. This has important policy implications in Viet Nam and elsewhere.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Improving access for people with disability through inclusive infrastructure
development in rural Papua New Guinea (2009-2011)
Researchers
Kathryn James, CBM-Nossal Partnership for Disability Inclusive Development
Ipul Powaseu, Papua New Guinea Assembly of Disabled Persons (PNGADP)
Carolyn Whitzman, University of Melbourne (Principal Investigator)
Email Address: KJames@cbm.org.au
Aims
This research examined barriers and facilitators for access by people with disabilities to road
transport infrastructure and road planning processes in Papua New Guinea (PNG), and developed
recommendations as to how the needs and views of people with disabilities can best be
incorporated into road planning and development in PNG to facilitate greater access to social
services and economic activities.
Methodology
The research project developed a participatory methodology using qualitative research tools,
comprising interviews with road decision-makers, group discussions and ‘moveabouts’ or road
access audits with people with disabilities, and photo elicitation and poster making. The research
was undertaken in five urban and rural sites, employing data collectors who were themselves people
with disabilities from the sites under study.
Outcomes
 Unsafe and inaccessible roads severely limit the ability of people with disabilities to use
roads, and increase risks of accidents. Road traffic accidents are a growing cause of death
and disability in PNG.
 Key barriers to safe use of roads include lack of marked crossings, signage, marked bus
stops; open drains; poorly maintained, narrow or absent footpaths along roads and bridges;
and potholed or flooded roads.
 The lack of basic safety features impacts upon all road users, however the consequences for
people with disabilities are more acute.
 Incorporating many safety measures during road design and construction would be simple
and low-cost; other measures are more costly but would save road maintenance costs in the
long term.
 Road decision-makers and aid donors need to ensure that road infrastructure projects
explicitly involve and consider the needs of people with disabilities and incorporate basic
accessibility standards and safety features to benefit all road users.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Significance
The Policy Brief and working paper produced will be used to inform Government Policy and Program
recommendations.
Research impact in PNG:
• Key government road decision-makers, planners and designers recognize & appreciate the partners
and research, making commitments to support findings
• Highlights the role government plays in providing disability accessible road development,
recognising the rights and needs of people with disabilities
• Involvement and participation by governments, community leaders & development partners (must
increase for real change to take place)
• Government takes ownership and works to improve road accessibility, consistent with UNCRPD
Impact of the research for people with disabilities:
• PWD leaders have been trained to be better researchers, strengthening confidence and improve
leadership skills in: design, data collection and analysis; dissemination & application of findings;
partnerships, consultation & networking; evidence based advocacy & policy submission and
negotiation
• Appreciate the process of identifying barriers that hinder progress in community life
• Present a strong case for integrated policy inclusion
• Importance of involvement and participation in decision-making at all levels
• Developed advocacy tools for DPO use in ongoing awareness activities
• Confidently link up with concerned government departments for policy decisions
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Triple Jeopardy: gender-based violence, disability, rights violations and
access to related services among women in Cambodia (2010-2011)
Research team
Jill Astbury (lead researcher), Fareen Walji (research coordinator), Kathy Oliver, Nina Vallins, Joanne
Crawford, Tith Hiengseka, Heng Channtey, Tep Danang, Nak Samneang, Touch Siya, Chhay Thida and
Ton Douern
Research partners
Banteay Srei, the Cambodian Disabled People’s Organisation (CDPO), CBM Australia, the
International Women’s Development Agency (IWDA) and Monash University
Email addresses: jcrawford@iwda.org.au; jill.astbury@vu.edu.au;
bantreaysrei_research@online.com.kh; cbm_nossal@cbm.org.au
Aims
This research investigates prevalence rates and experiences of gender based violence (GBV) amongst
women with disabilities in Cambodia and how these differ from women without disabilities. It
assesses whether current policies and programs are exclusionary and explores how to strengthen
existing programs and support to increase access.
Methodology
The research project employed a mixed methods investigation that relied on a number of different
sources of data to ensure that multiple perspectives on GBV and disability were canvassed. Women
with lived experience of disability and gender inequality were involved as researchers.
Outcomes
 In comparison to other women, women with disabilities in Cambodia experience much
higher levels of controlling behaviours from partners and significantly higher levels of all
forms of violence (emotional, physical and sexual) from family members.
 The intersection of gender and disability changed the nature of the violence experienced by
women, not just the extent of it, with women with disabilities more likely to experience
family violence than intimate partner violence.
 Barriers to disclosure and access to services are worsened by the fact that many women
with disabilities have less financial autonomy and less power than other women.
 There is an urgent need to improve policies and services to prevent and respond to violence
and discrimination experienced by women with disabilities, particularly family violence.
Significance
This research filled gaps in evidence regarding violence against women with disabilities and
established a methodology for integrating disability into the survey used for the WHO multi-country
study on violence against women. The findings can be used to address specialist service gaps,
strengthen gender based violence and disability policy, improve institutional responsiveness, tackle
discrimination on the basis of gender and disability with communities and prevent violence against
women with disabilities.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
An efficient means of measuring the effectiveness of development activities
which target or include people with disabilities in Asia and the Pacific –
testing a toolkit (2009-2011)
Researchers
Jill Keeffe, Nicolas Goujon, Kathy Fotis, Centre for Eye Research Australia
Sally Baker, Jennifer Booth, Alex Devine, Beth Sprunt, Tanya Edmonds, Manjula Marella, Nossal
Institute for Global Health
Nafisa Lira Huq, icddr,b, Bangladesh
Anaseini Cama, Pacific Eye Institute, Fiji
Email Address: marella.m@unimelb.edu.au
Aims
This research aimed (1) to develop the Rapid Assessment of Disability (RAD) tool for measuring the
prevalence of disability and its impact on participation of people with disabilities; and (2) to validate
RAD in Bangladesh using a population based survey and further test for its cultural relevance in Fiji
on a convenience sampling.
Outcomes
 The initial version of the RAD comprised five sections: 1) demographics, 2) self-assessment
of functioning, 3) rights awareness, 4) well-being, and 5) access to the community.
 Field testing in Bangladesh and Fiji found the self-assessment of functioning and well-being
sections to be psychometrically robust. Access to the community section was useful to
identify the differences in access to services and participation in the community between
people with and without disability. However, the awareness of rights section was found to
be psychometrically invalid, and therefore it was removed from the final version of the
survey.
 A total of 1,855 adult participants (80% response rate) were recruited from 66 randomly
selected clusters in a district in Bangladesh. Of these, 195 (10.5%, 95% CI: 8.8, 12.2)
individuals were identified to have disability using the self-assessment of functioning
section.
 In Bangladesh and Fiji, people with disability had significantly lower well-being scores
(p<0.005) and lower participation in social and community activities (p<0.001) and lower
access to services such as health, education, and employment (p<0.001), compared to their
age and gender matched controls.
 A manual has been developed that provides guidelines in using and implementing the RAD
survey.
Significance
The RAD tool can assist governments, NGOs and their development partners to assess the situation
of people with disability in their communities and help in designing disability inclusive development
programs.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Socio-cultural attitudes to disability in the Solomon Islands: identifying
culturally appropriate solutions to disadvantage (2010-2011)
Researchers
Alexandra Gartrell, Lenore Manderson and Megan Jennaway, Monash University
Judy Fangalasuu and Simon Dolaiano, People with Disabilities Solomon Islands (PWDSI)
Email Address: alexandra.gartrell@monash.edu
Aims
This research examined relationships between disability, culture, social circumstances and rightsbased development in the Solomon Islands. Using experiences of daily life and access to services at a
village level this research looks at how disability is perceived by communities in the Solomon Islands
and how this should influence policy development relevant to those with disabilities.
Methodology
The research used an ethnographic approach and collected data in three rural field sites. In-depth
interviews were conducted with 50 participants with disabilities across the sites (28 women, 22
men). The participants experienced mobility, sensory, psychological and neurological disabilities.
Twelve participants had multiple disorders. An additional 28 key informant interviews were
conducted.
Outcomes
 Disability is an invisible political and social issue.
 People with disabilities are denied choice.
 Cultural stigma and negative attitudes exist.
 Households with people with disabilities struggle alone.
 Disability over-determines opportunity and choice.
 Women with disabilities experience culturally specific forms of vulnerability.
 Dedicated resources aimed at the household level are required.
Realising rights, protecting freedoms: disability, social inclusion and culturally appropriate solutions
to disadvantage in Solomon Islands: Final Report
Significance
This research informs the development of strategic approaches to promote dignity, equity and
improve quality of life for people with disabilities and their households. The action of government,
non-government and community organisations and the church are critical to ensure inclusion. Key to
any initiatives to promote disability inclusive development is the comprehensive, systematic and
active inclusion of people with disabilities as participants, decision‐makers and leaders.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Impact of the community mental health system strengthening project in
Aceh, Indonesia (2009-2010)
Researchers
Harry Minas, University of Melbourne
Hervita Diatri, Suryo Dharmono, Albert Maramis, University of Indonesia
Email addresses: h.minas@unimelb.edu.au; hervita94@yahoo.com; suryodhar@yahoo.com;
almarams@indo.net.id
Aims
This project investigated the impact of a community mental health system strengthening program in
Bireuen District, Aceh, Indonesia, and the relationship between mental illness, disability and poverty.
Methodology
This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 37 primary care doctors (GPs) and 556
patients attending the 18 Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in the District of Bireuen, Aceh Province.
Data collected included demographics, perception and judgement about mental health conditions by
GPs and patients, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Research instruments included a
validated diagnostic instrument, the MINI-ICD-X; the Kessler K6 symptom severity scale, and a
disability assessment instrument, WHO-DAS-S.
Outcome
The majority (72.1%) of respondent patients in Bireuen say they know about mental health
conditions and among them 98.8% responded that mental health conditions can be effectively
treated in the primary care setting. A majority (63.4%) believe that mental health conditions are
primarily due to “life problems”. The prevalence of mental health conditions was very high - 82.7%
according to MINI-ICD-X, 71.9% according to GP’s assessment and 72.6% according to patients’ self
assessment. GPs who had received some additional mental health training (referred to as GP+) are
more likely to make a diagnosis of mental health conditions than non-GP+ in patients who have a
MINI diagnosis of mental health conditions.
A combination of medication and counselling intervention was considered the most suitable
treatment for mental health conditions by 45.7% of patients. Approximately half of the patients who
attended PHCs had psychotropic drugs prescribed. GP+ more frequently prescribed psychotropic
drugs to mentally ill patients than non-GP+.
The level of morbidity in this population was very high. 82.7% were diagnosed (MINI) with mental
health conditions, 78.6% had at least mild disability (WHO DAS-S Global). While a similar proportion
(73.2%) of participants assessed themselves as having a disability, GPs identified only 22.7% of the
participants as having a disability. 22.1% of the participants were below the poverty line. The
multivariate regression model suggests that the presence of a mental health conditions (MINI
diagnosis) is associated with a substantially increased risk (OR=6.0) of having a disability. Being
below the poverty line is associated with a moderately increased risk (OR=2.1) of having a disability.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Significance
1. The project advances knowledge in two areas:
 The effectiveness of mental health system strengthening programs that focus on
developing the capability of primary care doctors and on community engagement.
The project particularly identifies areas where much greater attention needs to be
paid to training and continuing supervision and skills development of doctors
working in PHCs.
 Improved understanding of the links between mental health, disability and poverty.
2. The research built a stronger evidence base for mental health policy and for the design and
delivery of mental health services through the existing primary health system, and
contributes to evidence-informed decision-making by Indonesian governments (national,
provincial and district) in further development of community mental health services.
3. The collaboration between the University of Melbourne and University of Indonesia has
strengthened academic and development agency linkages and mental health and disability
research capacity.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Developing and testing indicators for the education of children with disability
in the Pacific (2013-2015)
Researchers
Umesh Sharma, Monash University
Laisiasa Merumeru, Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat
Beth Sprunt, CBM-Nossal Partnership for Disability Inclusive Development
Email Address: umesh.sharma@monash.edu
Aims
To develop a set of contextually specific indicators for inclusive education in the Pacific and
guidelines for their implementation.
Methodology
The research (Pacific-INDIE: Pacific Indicators for Disability Inclusive Education) uses a mixed method
design including: literature reviews; a survey across 14 countries; key informant interviews and focus
group discussions in Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu; a regional workshop to review and
refine indicators and a three-stage Delphi technique with an International Review Panel to refine
indicators. The final list of indicators will be field tested in the four case study countries at system,
community, school and individual levels through the use of existing data, participant observations
and interviews. The research also includes a sub-study in Fiji – developing and validating a process of
disaggregating the Education Management Information System by disability.
Outcomes
become inclusive in the Pacific.
-service teacher education to develop high quality pedagogical and
positive responses for a diversity of children across the Pacific.
financial and human resources and infrastructure.
tion policies is a process which
should draw on global lessons but must allow for contextual differences at the country level, school
level, community, family and individual level.
Significance
The indicators and guidelines will assist countries to evaluate their efforts and develop further plans
and targets for providing quality education for children and youth with disability.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Sexual and reproductive health of women with disability in the Philippines
(2013-2015)
Research team
Cathy Vaughan, Centre for Health Equity, University of Melbourne
Alex Devine, Sally Baker and Manjula Marella, Nossal Institute for Global Health
Ma. Jesusa Marco, Jerome Zayas, Graeme Armecin, De La Salle University, Philippines
WOWLEAP, PARE, Likhaan Center for Women’s Health and Center for Women’s Studies, University
of the Philippines.
Email Address: c.vaughan@unimelb.edu.au
Aims
This participatory action research project, Women with Disability taking Action on Reproductive and
sexual health (W-DARE), aims to improve access to quality sexual and reproductive health (SRH)
programs for women with disability in the Philippines. This three-year project will collect data to
inform the design and implementation of pilot interventions to increase access to SRH programs for
women with disability and to develop guidelines for gender-sensitive disability inclusion specifically
in relation to SRH and for disability inclusion across the health sector in the Philippines. Guidelines
are expected to be relevant for other settings in the region.
Methodology
In phase 1, April 2013 to March 2014, a mixed methods research investigation employing disability
inclusive, participatory approaches was conducted at two research sites: Quezon City in Metro
Manila and Ligao City in Albay province. Using the Rapid Assessment of Disability, 3051 adults were
surveyed to establish prevalence of functional limitation, well-being, and participation restrictions
for people identified as having functional limitation. A total of 253 women identified as having
functional limitation completed an additional questionnaire on SRH, along with matched controls.
Qualitative data was collected on the lived experience of disability, SRH needs and experiences
including exposure to violence and access to SRH services, through 37 in-depth interviews with
women and girls with disability; eight focus group discussions with partners and parents of women
and girls with disability, and with women without disability; and 20 in-depth interviews with SRH
service providers.
Outcomes
Early analysis of data collected suggests opportunities for improving access to SRH services for
women with disability by improving both supply of and demand for services, as well as working to
create enabling local environments by building local government capacity for disability inclusive SRH
services. Interventions that work to increase public awareness of the rights and capacities of women
with disability, and to decrease stigma and discrimination, are also indicated.
Significance
This research can make a substantive contribution to the SRH of women with disability in Quezon
City and Ligao City in the short term and, through the dissemination of lessons learned and
development of guidelines for inclusive health services, make a significant contribution to improving
the health of women with disability more generally throughout the country and the region.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in disaster management in
Indonesia (2013-2015)
Researchers
Gwynnyth Llewellyn, Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney
Michelle Villeneuve, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney
Sarina Kilham and Filippo Dall’Osso, Research Associates, University of Sydney
Alex Robinson, Country Director ASB Indonesia
Email Addresses: gwynnyth.llewellyn@sydney.edu.au; sarina.kilham@sydney.edu.au
Aims
The research addresses promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in disaster risk reduction
(DRR) policy. Through an action-oriented approach the research also aims to increase the
participation of disabled people’s organisations (DPOs) in DRR and research capacity building.
Methodology
This research is based in four provinces in Indonesia. The research has three areas of primary focus:
a national level mapping of organisations in DRR and the enablers and barriers to including people
with disabilities in DRR; a disability-specific disaster mapping tool that DPOs can use at community
level to understand the resilience and risk factors for people with disabilities during a disaster; and
142 DPO representatives trained in a five part capacity building program.
Expected Outcomes
 Increased participation of people with disability in Indonesia within DRR dialogue and their
capacity to contribute to the monitoring of the inclusion of people with disability in DRR.
 Increased capacity of DPOs to engage in research and ‘fact’ finding activities.
 Reduced vulnerability of people with disability to disasters over time.
Significance
The post-2015 framework for disaster risk reduction (HFA2+) consultations are underway and this
research is providing information to inform policy and to raise awareness; working to ensure the
inclusion of people with disability post-HFA; directly informing the post-HFA process and framework
establishment and establishing an evidence base to guide future research on disability and DRR.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Achieving employment equality for people with disability in Cambodia (20132015)
Researchers
Alexandra Gartrell, Monash University
Elizabeth Hoban and Kevin Murffit, Deakin University
Seng Krisna, Khy Thy, Danit Song, Thida Chhay and Doeun Thoen, Cambodian Disabled People’s
Organisation
Email Address: alexandra.gartrell@monash.edu
Aims
This research aims to provide greater understanding of how organisational context, culture and
social beliefs shape the disability employment programs of non-government organisations (NGOs).
This will enable the development of strategies to link policy with practice and improve employment
outcomes and poverty reduction for people with disabilities in Cambodia.
This research has five specific objectives:
1. To identify how organisations address the socio-cultural and other barriers faced by people
with disabilities when seeking employment.
2. To identify the approaches to disability inclusive employment programming that people with
disabilities find helpful to achieving their employment aspirations.
3. To build the capacity of the research team at the Cambodian Disabled People’s Organisation
(CDPO) as researchers and advocates for the employment of people with disabilities.
4. To develop local ownership of research findings through early engagement with key
stakeholders (government, non-government organisations, disabled people’s organisation,
employers and industry groups).
5. To provide stakeholders with evidence on which actions can be taken to improve access to
employment for people with disabilities.
Methodology
This research uses an ethnographic approach incorporating data collected through action research
with NGOs who provide disability and employment programs; a village-based household sociodemographic survey and in-depth key informant interviews with people with disabilities, key
informants and employers. By working with the CDPO, including two provincial disabled people’s
organisations supported by CDPO, this research aims to build the capacity of people with disability
as researchers and leaders, and to develop an evidence base for CDPO’s ongoing advocacy with
government and other stakeholders to address employment issues.
Outcomes
 Household survey data collected in 986 households across three field sites plus 65 in-depth
interviews with people with disabilities.
 Three blocks of research team training for the CDPO team, DPO representatives and
enumerators. Completion of two rounds of critical reflection and learning workshops with
four focal NGOs.
 Annual Stakeholder Workshop held on May 6, 2014.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Significance
Although data has not been analysed several issues are emerging: people with disabilities are likely
to be employed in low status, low paid informal sector positions and are being exploited in the
workforce. People with disabilities face a range of attitudinal and practical barriers to entering new
and emerging employment opportunities in manufacturing and other industries. Economic growth
and development trends appear to be exacerbating inequalities and entrenching the disadvantages
faced by those with disabilities.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Implementing and monitoring education policy and practices for people with
disability in the South Pacific (2013-2014)
Researchers
Suzanne Carrington, Hitendra Pillay, Jennifer Duke and Megan Tones, Queensland University of
Technology
Subhas Chandra and Joyce Heeraman, University of the South Pacific
Ailini Leolu, Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture, Samoa-National researcher
George Jonathan Maeltoka, Education Services, Vanuatu-National researcher
Benedict Esibaea and Mrs Rukami, Ministry of Education, Solomon Islands-National researchers
Email Address: sx.carrington@qut.edu.au
Aims
Currently, most education sector disability inclusive strategies in the Pacific are directed towards
advocacy services and policy formation. This study is being conducted in collaboration with the
University of the South Pacific (USP) and the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) and will entail a critical
analysis of disability inclusive understandings, policies and practices in Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and
Solomon Islands undertaken by the education service providers.
Methodology
Phase one of the project involves a review and analysis of current data, policy and recent initiatives
in participant countries and identification of regional, national and local priorities with respect to
children with disabilities in schools and communities. The second phase will involve implementing
inclusive education strategies within a minimum of two schools in each participant country via action
research. Cycles of action research will be used to implement and evaluate context-specific
disability-inclusive practices.
Outcomes
To date, national profiles for each of the participant countries are being compiled on the current
education sector capacity to service children with disabilities, including details of contemporary
policy and services to provide for children with disabilities. National researchers from participating
countries and USP partner investigators have been trained in implementing the Index for Inclusion
and action research, and have identified schools in which to conduct research. The national
researchers in Vanuatu, Samoa and Solomon Islands have begun work using the action research
cycles of the Index for Inclusion in two schools in each country.
Significance
This study seeks to improve the opportunities and quality of life for children with disabilities in the
Pacific and their families through demonstrating inclusive education for children with disabilities in a
local context. It is anticipated that this study will generate significant knowledge to benefit the
relevant Ministries of Education and teacher educators in each country via the development of
culturally-appropriate approaches to education of children with disabilities. It also hopes to progress
the inclusive education agenda in respective countries beyond advocacy to services to the
beneficiaries.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Improving access to social and economic services for people with disability in
Laos (2013- 2015)
Researchers
Australian Team - Angela Fielding, Stian Thoresen, Sue Gillieatt, Liem Nguyen, Barbara Blundell,
Curtin University
Lao DPO Partner - Lao Disabled People’s Association
Lao Government Partner - National Committee for People with Disability and Elderly, Ministry of
Labour and Social Welfare
Email Address: AFielding@curtin.edu.au
Aims
This project aims to identify barriers and facilitators to social and economic participation for people
with disabilities in Laos, and to enhance the capacity of the Lao government and disabled people’s
organisations (DPOs) to implement disability inclusive development practices, and contribute
empirical evidence of barriers and facilitators for people with disabilities in low and middle income
countries.
Methodology
A mixed methods study: survey and participatory action research
1. Working with key stakeholders in Laos to identify barriers and facilitators to social and economic
participation for people with disabilities
 Mapping of key disability stakeholders in Laos.
 Survey key stakeholders about barriers and facilitators.
 Selection of three sites in consultation with local implementing partner.
 Self-administered survey/screening tool to identify needs and access to social and economic
services.
2. Participatory action research to build capacity of local stakeholders in monitoring and evaluation,
good practice, and research for disability-inclusive development
 Provide monitoring and evaluation training on disability inclusive development to Ministry
staff and local implementing partner.
 In consultation with local implementing partner, identify best practices in disability inclusive
development.
 Evaluate current practices against identified best practices and make recommendations to
National Coordinating Committee.
 Share research findings, which will support relevant ministries and DPOs’ work in designing
and implementing disability inclusive development policies and programs.
Outcomes and Work in Progress
 Presentation at the Ratchasuda International Conference on Disability: Inclusive ASEAN
Perspective on the Rights and Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities, February 2014
 Scoping review of contexts and concepts (In Press)
 Survey on Health, Employment, and Access to Services (draft)
 Training, including of local DPO staff, in basic research to identify and monitor needs and
access to services (forthcoming)
 Monitoring and Evaluation for disability training of Government and DPO staff in disability
inclusive development
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Evaluating the use of the community based rehabilitation model to support
people with disability (2013-2015)
Researchers
Mary Wickenden, University College London, United Kingdom
Email Address: m.wickenden@ucl.ac.uk
Aims
The overall objective is to design a model of impact evaluation for community based rehabilitation
for disabled people (CBR) and an evaluation toolkit for use in diverse contexts. In the context of new
international and local disability policies, this participatory project will develop tools to evaluate the
impact of CBR on the wellbeing of disabled people and families assessing the contribution of both
service delivery and inclusive community support. The toolkit will be piloted with CBR programmes
in Uganda and Malawi partnering with local non government organisations (NGOs) and academics
where there are existing links.
Methodology
This is a practical, innovative project using a cross-disciplinary team of practitioner/researchers and
NGO staff working in CBR, to design, in consultation with people with disability and other key
stakeholders, a meaningful model and toolkit for impact evaluation of CBR, for use in diverse
contexts. The key underlying approach is outcome mapping. The emphasis is on producing a toolkit
which will be easily usable by CBR programs in a variety of low income settings where resources are
scarce. The project will take place in four phases, April 2013-Oct 2015.
Phase 1: Collect information from the selected field sites, existing literature on CBR and monitoring
and evaluation of CBR and development initiatives, as well as from key informants in a range of
countries and regions. This will be followed by the development and trialling of the conceptual
model and toolkit of methods for impact evaluation. Phase 2: Practical trials will be undertaken in
the two selected field sites but will also include discussions and comments from key informants and
CBR practitioners in Malawi and Uganda (through local advisory groups) and other countries and
regions (through an international advisory group). Phases 3 and 4: Process analysis, review and
revision of the model and toolkit based on the outcomes of the phases 1 and 2 and preparation of
the toolkit manual for dissemination.
Outcomes
Phase 1 has been completed and phase 2 is in progress. The preliminary findings to date are:
 Most of the draft tools have been well accepted by people with disabilities and other
stakeholders who participated in evaluation activities, though some small adaptations and
refinements are needed.

People with disability appreciated the opportunity to be consulted on the provision of
services within their community.

There are issues in relation to the skills and training of the evaluation team and the level of
complexity and detailed information which can be handled within the evaluation process.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra

Generally the service providers within the CBR program rated their impact much more highly
than the people with disability receiving these services.

The research teams found analysing the rich qualitative data challenging and a more
streamlined method for them to analyse, combine and report on the quantitative and
qualitative data, to make this useful to the CBR teams, needs to be developed.
Significance
The underlying participatory approach and the use of outcome mapping and a very broad
consultative format seem to have worked well. However, the collection of such an extensive range
of data is complex and the analysis, summarising and reporting back of this is challenging for the
field teams. In the next phase we need to find ways to simplify this process and make the
instructions and procedures more explicit and easy to follow, while retaining the flexibility,
participatory aspects and depth of information achieved in the pilot version.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Reviewing approaches to education for children with disability in Papua New
Guinea (2013-2015)
Researchers
University of Goroka
Maria Kett and Marcella Deluca, Leonard Cheshire Disability and Inclusive Development Centre,
University College London
Email Address: m.kett@ucl.ac.uk
Aims
The aim of this research is to review current educational approaches for children with disabilities in
Papua New Guinea (PNG) and to analyse how this right to education is upheld. The PNG government
supports improved access to inclusive education (IE), but many challenges remain, and to date there
is little evidence or evaluation of the effectiveness of work by government or other service
providers. This research is a partnership between the lead institution and the University of Goroka,
the National Department of Education, Special Education Division, Cheshire Disability Services, and
two teacher training institutes (PNG Educational Institute and Bomana Institute). The research will
build the capacity of the local researchers around IE, including supporting a Masters student, as well
support existing structures to develop an improved system to monitor and evaluate the numbers of
children with disabilities enrolled in mainstream schools and the effectiveness of current educational
approaches. The work will have particular policy relevance, and will be communicated to policy
makers and practitioners within the region as well as other education and inclusion stakeholders.
Methodology
This research, a partnership between UK and Papua New Guinea researchers, Ministry of Education
and service providers, will support existing structures to monitor and evaluate current educational
approaches, and provide figures on numbers of children with disabilities currently enrolled in
mainstream schools - information that is currently unavailable. The research will use a ‘mixed
methods’ approach with a strong reliance on qualitative methodologies in order to gain a better
understanding of the specific education challenges and opportunities faced by children with
disabilities in PNG and provide guidance on IE policies and practices. A qualitative approach will
enable in-depth analysis of the current situation, gaps in knowledge and practices, as well as provide
a platform for potential further, more quantitative-based research. Added to this, descriptive
statistics will also be produced, consolidating information from school information management
systems. The project will work with the Ministry of Education to cover all schools in the country.
Outcomes
This research, a partnership between UK and Papua New Guinea researchers, Ministry of Education
and service providers, will support existing structures to monitor and evaluate current educational
approaches, and provide figures on numbers of children with disabilities currently enrolled in
mainstream schools - information that is currently unavailable.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Significance
The overall aim of the research is to support the government of PNG to guarantee disabled
children's right to primary education. The research builds on a previous DFAT-funded systematic
review, co-led by the Principal Investigator, which examined the differing approaches to access to
education for children with disabilities. Building on these findings, this research will study existing
challenges and opportunities within an education system in practice, particularly when there is a
supportive policy environment but opposition to inclusion at the local levels. Collaboration with
national and local partners, such as DPOs, research and education experts will enable the research
to generate evidence for policy and programming. The research team will work with local
government partners, developing robust data on the numbers of children with disability accessing
education, strengthen knowledge management, use and flow within PNG. The team will also work
with service providers and persons with disabilities and their organisations to strengthen the
evidence base for advocacy and combining on issues around education for children with disability in
PNG.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Identifying the needs and priorities of children with disability in Vanuatu and
Papua New Guinea (2013-2014)
Researchers
Researchers
Elena Jenkin, Erin Wilson, Matthew Clarke and Kevin Murfitt, Deakin University
Lanie Stockman, Save the Children, Australia,
Ishmael Leanave, Zeena Sivi, Peter Wasape, Papua New Guinea Assembly of Disabled Persons
(PNGADP)
Nelly Caleb, Disability Promotion and Advocacy Association Vanuatu (DPA)
Lietare Joel, Kalo James, Marguerite Goulding, Save the Children, Vanuatu
Louisah Nohan Neras, Save the Children, Papua New Guinea )
Email Address: e.jenkin@deakin.edu.au
Aims
This project utilises capacity building techniques to establish a method of data collection to
determine the self-reported needs and priorities of children living with disabilities in Vanuatu and
Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Methodology
The project utilises a rights-based child participatory research methodology, with a focus on the
development and testing of data collection methods suitable to local cultures and to maximising the
communication of children with diverse disabilities. Using a capacity building and partnership
approach with Deakin, Save the Children and local disabled people’s organisations (DPOs), the
project employs local project personnel in each country.
Expected Outcomes
1. Provide methods of direct communication and data collection with children with diverse
disabilities that have direct application for use by service organisations, government and other
researchers.
2. Influence policy and program design by utilising new knowledge generated in regard to the
identified needs and priorities of children with disabilities in PNG and Vanuatu.
3. Further develop the working relationship between international non government organisations
(NGOs) and DPOs in Vanuatu and PNG.
4. Support academic, donor and development agencies to understand the methods and ethics of
participatory research involving children with disabilities.
Significance
By identifying the needs and priorities of children with disabilities service providers and
governments are more able to design, deliver or modify services to effectively meet these. This
information can direct how donors can target funding to support the inclusion in development
activities of children with disabilities. This is an important and complex area where knowledge
development is essential to model effective and safe research methods for children with disabilities.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Equitable Access to Services – Papua New Guinea Equitable Access Research
Researchers
Lauren Flaherty, Cristy Wilson, Kylie Mines, Motivation Australia
Ipul Powaseu, Mary Ikupu, PNG Assembly for Disabled Persons
Almah Kuambu, Project Officer, PNG National Orthotics and Prosthetics Service:
Dinuk Jayasuriya, Australian National University
Email Address: laurenflaherty@motivation.org.au
Aims
To investigate the barriers and facilitators that exist in relation to accessing an appropriate mobility
device service for people with a mobility disability in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Methodology
A mixed methods approach was applied, including individual questionnaires and focus groups.
Questionnaires were completed by 278 women and men with a mobility disability and parents of
children with mobility disability in four provinces of PNG where mobility device services exist.
Interviews were carried out by people with a disability. Six focus groups in two of the targeted
provinces involving 41 people were then carried out. This enabled a more in depth analysis of
participants’ experiences regarding access to mobility device services. Focus group participants were
randomly selected from the questionnaire participants.
Outcomes
Three major themes emerged from the research:
 Gender: A key outcome from the Equitable Access Research project was recognition that
while men and women both experience significant barriers to accessing a mobility device,
the types of barriers they face are different. For men the key barriers identified were
practical in nature, such as a lack of information or awareness and a lack of financial
resources. Women also experienced those practical barriers however the most commonly
identified barrier was gender related violence.

Age: EAR participants identified that people aged over 50 experience the highest level of
difficulty in accessing a service; with 92 percent of people indicating that it was hard or very
hard for this group. In a similar way to gender related differences, two of the three top
barriers identified for people aged over 50 were to do with socio-cultural issues: older
people are undervalued and lack support from their family.

Government responsibility: EAR participants recognise the value of being able to access
consistent, local mobility device services. It was also clear that people with a mobility
disability feel that the responsibility to provide these services rests with the PNG
government.
Significance
Many of the barriers identified are systemic issues in PNG and not only relevant to mobility device
service provision. However information awareness, one of the most common barriers, may be
improved through targeted community and government awareness campaigns, referral network
training and establishing links between different services involved.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra
Reducing barriers may also be improved through lobbying for increased support for people with a
mobility disability through advocating for; financial security, providing services to isolated and rural
locations and accessible transport needs with a focus on access for women and older people as the
most vulnerable groups. Further, increasing the capacity of the government mobility device services
to provide appropriate services is crucial through continued training and funding for appropriate
products.
Disability Research Symposium, 28-29 August 2014,
Canberra