Webinar discusses the future of community-based groups
17 September 2026
A recent webinar connected practitioners, researchers, implementing organisations, and advocates for a global conversation on the future of community based groups working to improve the lives of people affected by NTDs.
Community-based groups are a vital strategy for supporting people affected by leprosy and other skin-related NTDs. Yet, evidence on what makes them effective, impactful, and sustainable remains limited.
The UPLIFT study addresses this gap by testing a community-based model combining self-care, psychosocial support and group leadership to improve wellbeing, reduce stigma, and strengthen social inclusion for people affected by leprosy and other skin-related NTDs.
The session presented outcomes, discussed practical implications, and introduced guidance documents based on the findings of the UPLIFT Project. Participants had the opportunity to engage with project partners, researchers, and implementation experts through presentations and moderated discussion.
The objectives of the webinar were to:
- Learn what the UPLIFT study uncovered about building Community-Based Groups that are not only effective, but, replicable, and led by group members themselves.
- Explore how the lessons from UPLIFT can be applied to future programs, policies, and investments across the NTD sector and related fields.
- Gain practical insights that can help strengthen community-led approaches to self-care, psychosocial support, inclusion, and long-term well-being among people affected by leprosy and other skin-NTDs.
- Become familiar with the Implementation Manual and Facilitation Guide for Community-Based Groups and their potential applications.
To view a recording of the webinar, see here.
