Social

GENDER DISPARITIES

Initial

Preconceived assumptions included that the main cause for not entering the workforce was workplace gender-influenced discrimination.

Now

While this is true, many other factors contribute to this:

Many of these women are often restricted by their spouses due to traditional misogynistic beliefs that women should not work
Hindered by social constraints such as gender roles
- Childcare and homemaking duties = Short work histories = form barriers when entering the workforce or getting higher-paying positions

VALUES AND ASSETS

Initial

Assumed that the beneficiaries would be too caught up fulfilling their unmet needs, understandably choosing to focus on themselves.

Now

Many of the women we engaged with are extremely altruistic and involved in the community
- Some even act as Chairman of their neighbourhood Community Centres, often organising events for the less fortunate in their neighbourhood

BARRIERS TO RECEIVING HELP

Initial

There is a lack of awareness of organisations or resources they could approach to help, which then prevents them from seeking the help they need.

Now

While this can still be true, oftentimes the women are also put off during the application process itself, resulting in them terminating the application, due to:

Intrusive interview processes
Difficulties in acquiring documents to support their case

The feeling of judgement received from assistance service personnel make them uncomfortable and hesitant to receive the help they need.

GROWTH