Stigma guidance
Language Selector

Note: this is a third-party automated tool and may occasionally make mistakes.

Download this page as a PDF

Section 3:
Intentional planning for stigma reduction

Very often, stigma and stigma reduction activities are briefly mentioned within programmes, but aren’t planned for with attention, clear direction and budget.

Stigma reduction is recognised as a significant barrier to achieving disability inclusion, therefore we recommend that you are more explicit and intentional.  This includes devoting time and space to discuss stigma and discrimination when planning a project your team and with partners, and also when developing your theory of change.

Remember to apply the three core principles during different phases of the planning and design process.

Illustration of a group of four women: one wears dark glasses and holds a cane, another is using a wheelchair. They're having an animated discussion.

The three core principles

Participation of people with disabilities

For example: hosting participatory planning meetings with stakeholders, including carers and organisations of people with disabilities.

Applying an intersectional lens

For example: inviting representatives of women-led organisations of people with disabilities, youth groups and under-represented disability types.

Power and
partnerships   

For example: understanding power dynamics as part of your analysis and thinking through the best partners to deliver change in stigma reduction.

For a full reminder of the principles, return to Section 1: Three core principles
Next page: Shared understanding