ENHANCING POLICY IMPLEMENTATION EFFECTIVENESS FOR ELDERLY CASH ALLOWANCE: A CASE STUDY OF THA RAE SUBDISTRICT MUNICIPALITY OFFICE, MUEANG SAKON NAKHON DISTRICT, SAKON NAKHON PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aims to: 1) examine the implementation of the cash allowance policy for the elderly at the Tha Rae Subdistrict Municipality Office, 2) identify the challenges and obstacles encountered in the policy’s implementation, and 3) propose guidelines for enhancing its efficiency. Data were collected using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and both participatory and non-participatory observations. Key informants included the mayor of Tha Rae Subdistrict Municipality, the director of the Social Welfare Division, a community development specialist, a general administrative officer, village headman and 16 elderly individuals who receive the cash allowance, totaling 25 people. Content analysis and data triangulation were used for data analysis, and the research findings were presented descriptively. The study found that the implementation of the cash allowance policy involved factors such as organisational structure, personnel, budget, location, and equipment. Problems encountered included issues related to relocation, the allowance payment process, coordination between agencies and community leaders, and the incorporation of feedback from the elderly population. The study also suggested improvements such as developing a registration system for beneficiaries, a policy knowledge-sharing system, an asset verification process, a monitoring and evaluation framework, and channels for exchanging feedback.