BDRCS Strengthens Community Reach in WASH Services: A Reflection on Current Impact and Future Goals
One of the critical measures of success for any National Society is its ability to reach communities with impactful, contextually appropriate interventions. For the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), this capability has proven essential in combating communicable diseases by disseminating life-saving information related to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Indicator 2.03 has been specifically designed to measure the effectiveness of this outreach, focusing on the number of people reached with key WASH messages over the past three years.
A recent study conducted by ART Lab highlights some important trends and reflections on the reach of BDRCS. Among the sampled students across various districts, the National Society’s reach remains relatively low in Dhaka, with better, albeit modest, results in other districts. Sylhet demonstrates the highest student engagement at 26.2% in WASH messaging.
The picture changes significantly when looking at households. Cox’s Bazar district stands out with considerably higher reach rates in all areas of information, indicating the impact of targeted interventions in the region. In contrast, household reach rates in other districts remain lower, emphasizing the need for more robust strategies to expand coverage.
Opportunities for Better Coordination and Outreach
One of the key findings from the study team is the potential for stronger linkages between BDRCS volunteers and local administrative bodies or elected representatives. For instance, the District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer (DRRO) of Rajshahi mentioned limited knowledge of BDRCS activities in his area. This gap suggests a missed opportunity for enhancing coordination and leveraging local support. By involving key stakeholders such as DRROs and local representatives in BDRCS activities, the organization could foster stronger partnerships and amplify its impact on communities.
Establishing a Baseline and Targeting Future Growth
Based on survey responses, BDRCS has currently reached an average of 7,282 people with its WASH messaging. This figure serves as a baseline for future interventions. According to the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) indicator, the target is set at 12,000 people, which, if achieved, would bring the total reach to 19,282 people by the time of the next evaluation. This ambitious goal is within reach, provided the interventions are executed effectively and coordinated well with all stakeholders.
Looking Ahead
BDRCS’s role in improving WASH services remains critical for safeguarding public health in Bangladesh. As it continues to bridge gaps in health literacy, epidemic preparedness, and safe hygiene practices, the organization must also address challenges in outreach and coordination. Strengthening local partnerships and involving administrative stakeholders will be key to scaling up efforts and meeting future targets.
At ART Lab, we are proud to contribute to documenting and analyzing such impactful initiatives. Together with partners like BDRCS, we aim to build healthier, more resilient communities across Bangladesh.
Stay tuned for more updates on the progress and outcomes of this initiative!!