Development Guidelines for Human Security and Social Development Volunteers Specializing in Disability to Enhance Access to Fundamental Rights of Persons with Disabilities: A Case Study of Sukhothai Province

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the levels of knowledge, skills, and personal characteristics of Social Development and Human Security Volunteers specializing in persons with disabilities (SDHSV-D) in promoting access to basic rights for persons with disabilities in Sukhothai Province. It also compared differences based on personal factors and proposed development guidelines to enhance their capacity and work effectiveness. A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research, was employed. The sample consisted of SDHSV-D in Sukhothai Province. The research instruments included questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, namely Independent Samples t-test and One-way ANOVA, while qualitative data were analyzed through inductive interpretation and presented descriptively.

The findings revealed that SDHSV-D had overall high levels of knowledge and skills in promoting access to basic rights for persons with disabilities, and their personal characteristics were at the highest level. When comparing personal factors, significant differences at the .05 level were found in knowledge and skills among volunteers with different genders and occupations. Additionally, volunteers with different levels of education, income, and work experience showed significant differences in knowledge, skills, and personal characteristics at the .05 level.

The development guidelines for SDHSV-D to enhance their capacity and effectiveness should adopt an integrated approach across three dimensions: knowledge, work skills, and personal characteristics. Balanced development in all dimensions would enable them to perform their duties effectively, uphold ethical standards, and respond comprehensively and sustainably to the needs of persons with disabilities at the community level.