Family Futures - pathways out of extreme poverty

Family poverty drives families into sending their children to work and COVID-19, recent flood in Sylhet region are pushing more people into extreme poverty. We identify a suitable enterprise, contribute a micro grant to get it off the ground and embed business support to ensure success. This is underpinned with social and welfare support to safeguard the education of their children.

We support families to identify an enterprise that suits their skills and experience, and that will produce a reliable and sustainable income. A micro grant purchases what is needed to start their small business. Money is not given directly to the household, instead we purchase the goods that are needed and our field workers ensure they are used as intended, helping them make appropriate decisions and building their confidence and skills to ensure success.

These small businesses give families an essential lifeline to pay rent, buy food and meet every day essential needs. Crucially, it means they can afford to send their children to school instead of to work or into early marriage. The support period gives each family time to successfully establish their business and develop a long-term sustainable income. They are able to rise out of poverty and provide for their family without relying on their children's labour.

Over the last three months we have supported 7 families by Micro Grants. 

Story of Samina Khatun

Samina Khatun, an UKBET student, has worked as a domestic helper since she was a child because her family has always struggled financially. Mrs Eli, Saima’s community teacher became aware of her situation and after discussing with the UKBET team was able to offer her father Ali a business loan. Having previously struggled with employment, he accepted the financial help and established a dried fish business. The family is now able to earn a stable income and as a result Samina now no longer has to work as a domestic helper. 

Mr Ali is extremely grateful to UKBET; "It used to break my heart to see my little daughter have to get up every morning and go to work instead of going to school. I can't thank UKBET enough for their thoughtfulness to my family and me. May God make those who helped me today more able to help others in the future".