First, only small, simple and locally-initiated projects that meet the needs of the poor are eligible. Rigorous appraisal at district and community level ensures that only poor communities and beneficiaries are supported. Participatory assessments have been used to assess whether the poor have benefited and SRP has increased the numbers of regional officers in Provinces where poverty levels are highest. Geographic distribution of resources shows significant access to SRP funds by the poorest districts, which receive as much as less poor districts. The SRP operates on the premise that community participation is the corner-stone for development.
Communities participate in projects if they feel capable of doing so.
Early in the life of SRP, several factors were identified which influence the quality and extent of community participation. The SRP put in place several interventions to facilitate interactive and active community participation, where people participate in joint analysis and planning as well as take collective action. Forms and guidelines were simplified, facilitation techniques were developed and the facilitation skills of district and regional officer staff improved. The project selection process at district level only allows selection of community projects for field appraisal which show community commitment. Projects which are simple enough for the community to implement with the minimum of outside technical assistance and of a size that they are able to cope with are selected.