Study on the impact of cash on child protection

Qualitative research shows that cash support plays a crucial role in enabling families to meet essential needs, reducing negative coping strategies and improving child protection outcomes.

Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the body of evidence around the impact of cash on child protection (CP) outcomes.

While most of this evidence is quantitative, this qualitative research comes as a useful complement by highlighting program participants’ views and perceptions of the impact that cash can have in contributing to CP outcomes and child well-being, as well as in mitigating drivers of CP risks.

Overall, the analysis of the impact of cash on drivers of CP risks highlights a positive correlation between increased access to financial resources and improvement of child’s well-being, reduction of certain CP risks, and increased awareness of CP.

Cash support improves child protection outcomes

Cash support plays a crucial role in enabling families to meet essential needs, reducing the likelihood of negative coping strategies such as child labor and child marriage, but also reducing certain drivers such as household stress level, which could contribute to CP risks such as violence in the home.

Findings underscore the importance of these interventions in enhancing the overall well-being of children by addressing basic needs and facilitating access to services, such as education and healthcare.

Cash interventions have proven effective in fostering a safer environment for children by alleviating economic pressures on families. As a result, parents and caregivers are better positioned to provide a more stable and protective environment for their children. Moreover, the introduction of cash support is associated with improved educational outcomes as financial barriers to schooling are minimised, allowing for greater attendance and completion rates.

This study confirms that cash is being used effectively for children and their well-being. It also highlights the psychosocial benefits allowed by cash interventions. In fact, families receiving financial support report reduced stress and improved mental health, which significantly contributes to a more nurturing home environment.

Consistent and reliable financial aid helps establish a sense of security and continuity, crucial for the mental and emotional development of children.