Functional status and needs assessment of Mothers’ Support Groups in Sri Lanka - 2023
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Highlights
Mothers' support groups play a critical role in promoting maternal and child health, nutrition, and overall well-being in Sri Lanka. These groups have adapted to evolving health and social challenges, including those brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for a systematic assessment of MSGs' post pandemic activities has become evident in understanding their current impact and identifying areas for improvement.
This study employed a mixed-method approach, integrating a descriptive cross-sectional survey and qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs). The survey involved 1120 completed interviews across all 25 districts of Sri Lanka, thus providing a representative sample. FGDs were conducted with MSG members from the 12 selected districts to obtain in-depth qualitative insights. The primary objectives of this needs assessment include assessing the level of community engagement and participation within MSGs, identifying the challenges and barriers faced by MSGs, determining areas for knowledge and skill enhancement among MSG members, and exploring potential activities and initiatives for MSGs during economic downturns.
The average age of MSG members is 36 years, with the majority having educational attainment at least up to the general certificate of education (GCE) ordinary level. The groups were predominantly female. A significant proportion of the MSG members reported receiving
community appreciation and recognition as community leaders. Male participation in MSG activities remains limited, mainly because of their primary responsibilities as income providers.
This study identified several challenges, including time constraints, financial constraints, reduced member participation, and the need for enhanced training and resources. The economic downturn exacerbated these challenges, affecting the operational capacity of MSGs. The MSG members expressed a need for further training in areas such as health and nutrition education, financial management, and home gardening. Enhancing these skills is crucial for improving the effectiveness of MSGs in addressing community needs. This assessment highlighted the potential for expanding MSG activities to include economic empowerment, mental health support, and the use of digital technologies for information dissemination and training.
To increase the effectiveness and engagement of MSGs, the following recommendations are proposed: decentralize information and knowledge-sharing mechanisms to reduce dependency on public health midwives (PHMs); strengthen alternative communication channels such as social media, particularly WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube; establish a formal system to monitor MSG members' attendance and activities; implement district-level acknowledgment and reward systems to motivate and involve MSG members; expand the scope of knowledge and training provided to MSG members; and ensure a holistic support system involving other public health staff and non-health stakeholders. The implementation of these recommendations will contribute to stronger and more effective mothers’ support groups, thereby improving health outcomes and promoting resilience among communities across Sri Lanka.
