Challenges and barriers regarding access to the Disability Grant: experiences of persons with Physical Disabilities residing in Soweto, Johannesburg

Abstract

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No. 108 of 1996 recognizes the right of social security under Section 27, 1c. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is mandated by the Social Assistance Act No. 13 of 2004 to deliver three main duties: administration, management, and payment of social grants, including the Disability Grant (DG). While more research has been conducted, focusing on the administration, management, and payment of the Child Support Grant and the Old Age Grant, the DG received the least attention, specifically focusing on persons with physical disabilities. It is from these viewpoints that this study explored the challenges and barriers experienced by persons with physical disabilities regarding access to the DG in Soweto, Johannesburg. A qualitative approach employing a case study design was used in this study. A non-probability, purposive sampling technique was used to sample twelve participants between the ages of twenty-one to forty-four years old. A semi-structured interview guide was used as a research tool, and in-depth, one-on-one interviews were adopted as a method of data collection. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, following the six steps as outlined by Braun and Clarke, 2012. The findings of this study were conceptualised through the bio-psycho-social model of disability. These findings revealed that physically disabled persons experienced challenges and barriers regarding access to the DG. The challenges identified included difficulties in denial or self-denial, unstable family conditions, limited access to medical assessment, shortages of finances, as well as stigma and discrimination. The barriers identified ranged from physical organisational and attitudinal barriers. While intervention from social workers was reported as an important strategy to minimise these challenges and barriers regarding access to the DG, a call was reported for social workers to escalate their interventions by educating communities and families about the implications of having a disability. Programmatic interventions in the Disability sector could also include the SASSA to adopt a multidisciplinary team focus relating to the DG’s qualifying requirements. The study might contribute to additional knowledge on enhancing programmatic interventions done by both the public and the private sectors in a bid to improve access to the DG for persons with physical disabilities in low-income communities