Advocacy for Psycho-Social Support to Parents in Informal Settlements: A Scoping Study

Authors:
Daniel L. Mpolomoka, P. Paul Jose, Muvombo Moono, Mwale Lilungwe, Owen Mulima

Addresses:
Department of Academic Affairs, Unicaf University, Lusaka, Lusaka Province, Zambia. Department of Commerce, Tharananellur Arts and Science College, Thrissur, Kerala, India. Department of Special Education, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, China. Department of Media, Rusangu University, Monze, Southern Province, Zambia.

Abstract:

Providing advocacy requires people or persons to be more goal-oriented to keep pushing for the agenda on which they stand. This scoping study examines the advocacy strategies required to enhance psycho-social support systems for parents in informal settlements. Parents living in marginalised urban neighbourhoods often face significant psycho-social challenges, including economic instability, mental health issues, and social isolation, which negatively impact their well-being and the development of their children. Through a systematic review of relevant literature, the study identifies key advocacy strategies, including community-driven support networks, policy reforms to improve mental health services, and tailored programs for vulnerable groups. The findings show the importance of multidimensional advocacy efforts that incorporate community involvement, policy advocacy, and public education to improve the overall psycho-social well-being of parents in informal settlements. This study contributes valuable details to the development of effective support systems for parents in marginalised communities, indicating the need for continued advocacy and systemic change to address the root causes of psycho-social distress.

Keywords: Psycho-Social Support; Informal Settlements; Advocacy Strategies; Mental Health; Policy Reform; Urban Poverty; Community Involvement; Social Isolation; Economic Instability.

Received on: 03/02/2025, Revised on: 18/03/2025, Accepted on: 15/06/2025, Published on: 03/01/2026

DOI: 10.69888/FTSHS.2026.000629

FMDB Transactions on Sustainable Humanities and Society, 2026 Vol. 3 No. 1, Pages: 51–61

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