By Takia Islam Toma and Sadia Afrin Suvra

The Focus Group Discussion (FGD) Report on the Three-Month Experience of Family Card Beneficiaries presents qualitative findings from discussions with 14 beneficiaries residing in Korail, one of Dhaka’s largest informal settlements. Conducted under the Social Security Policy Support (SSPS) Programme, the study examines the early implementation of the Family Card Programme and its contribution to the livelihoods of low-income urban households. The findings indicate that the programme provides essential financial support, enabling beneficiaries to meet basic household needs, including food, healthcare, education, and other daily expenses amidst rising urban living costs. The study also highlights several implementation challenges, including limited opportunities for savings, digital financial exclusion, and reduced financial autonomy for women where mobile financial service accounts are not registered in their own names. Case studies further demonstrate how social protection can strengthen household resilience, support children’s education, promote productive investments, and foster women’s economic empowerment when beneficiaries have direct control over programme resources. Overall, the report underscores the importance of addressing digital and structural barriers to enhance the effectiveness of the Family Card Programme and strengthen inclusive social protection for vulnerable urban populations