ABSTRACT:
Issues: Stigma and discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions, remain pervasive in Ghana, limiting equitable access to health, social, and economic opportunities. A 2020 study by Ghana Somubi Dwumadie Programme highlighted key behaviors requiring change, including negative language use, inadequate family and community support, cultural and religious norms, and weak enforcement of disability and mental health laws. In response, Hope for Future Generations (HFFG), in collaboration with PysKforum and funded by Options, implemented a two-year Social Behaviour Change (SBC) project to reduce stigma and promote disability and mental health inclusion across eighteen districts in Greater Accra, Central, North East, and Savannah regions. Description: The project trained 40 individuals with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions, as inclusion champions to educate 4,496 community members on stigma, discrimination, importance of positive language, and family and community support. 2,200 SBC materials addressing stigma and discrimination were printed and distributed to reinforce positive messaging. HFFG provided in-person and tele-counselling for 29 individuals to address stress, parenting challenges, marital difficulties, and financial distress. The project collaborated with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development to provide legal education on the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), including guidance on filing complaints. Lessons Learned: Community-based SBC interventions effectively reduced negative attitudes and behaviors toward persons with disabilities and those with mental health conditions. Training inclusion champions amplified reach and impact, while counselling services improved psychosocial wellbeing. Legal education enhanced awareness of rights and mechanisms for redress, strengthening community and institutional accountability. Next Steps: Scaling up SBC interventions, expanding champion training, and sustaining legal education efforts will further strengthen inclusion, promote the use of positive language, ensure adherence to disability and mental health policies and laws across Ghana.