Making the links with WASH

The method for facilitating the tool currently elicits discussion around:

• The impact and implications of HIV/Aids on family composition and livelihoods - now and over time
• Strategies to care for people infected with HIV/Aids
• Family and community support for HIV/Aids infected and affected households
• Myths and misconceptions that feed into stigma and fear

The links with water, sanitation and hygiene could be explored by including the following kinds of questions:

• How does the family get water?
• What does the family use water for?
• Will there be any changes in the family’s water needs and uses? If so, what will these be?
• What latrine facilities does the family have?
• Will there be any changes in the family’s use of the latrine? If so, what will these be?
• Does anyone in the family get sick with water related diseases like diarrhea?
• If so, what can be done at household level to prevent these kinds of diseases

It may also be useful to explore

• What can be done to prolong the progression from HIV to AIDS?
• What are the issues with access to treatment?
• What links are needed with which resources?

By exploring these kinds of questions, the specific water, sanitation and hygiene needs of households affected by HIV/Aids can be discussed, together with the implications for policy makers, planners and health promoters. The need for links with home based care and clinics for treatment, care and support can also be discussed.