Ipas Development Foundation (IDF) has been implementing a youth-focused intervention in selected rural clusters of South 24 Parganas (Health District Diamond Harbour) to improve the ability and agency of young women and girls (10-24) in selected districts of West Bengal. About the intervention: A multi-pronged intervention model has been adopted by IDF for improving the knowledge and agency of young women and girls. On the one hand, IDF has strengthened the public health system to make youth-friendly services available and accessible by equipping facilities with the required infrastructure, and working with health providers, counsellors, and support staff to be more youth-responsive. On the other hand, IDF undertook community outreach activities to improve SRH related awareness among adolescents (10-14 years) and young women (15-24 years) and other key community influencers. Anwesha counsellors were also engaged as part of provider outreach, in this intervention. 

A cross-sectional qualitative study among adolescents and young women and a few select stakeholders in West Bengal was conducted to assess the effects of community outreach and facility-based interventions in improving knowledge, self-efficacy, and utilization of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. This qualitative evaluation assessed the potential association between youth intervention and transition in knowledge, agency, and the ability of young women and girls to access SRH information and services and care and transition in MHH (menstrual health and hygiene) behaviour. 

Evaluation of a Youth-Focused Intervention: An Exploratory Qualitative Study in West Bengal. Ipas Development Foundation. 2021.