The CLTS Knowledge Hub and UNICEF convened an Asia-focused workshop titled ‘Supporting the Poorest and Most Vulnerable in CLTS Programmes’ in the Philippines in May 2017. The event brought together participants with experience of working on directly, supporting or researching CLTS programmes from across the continent. Over the course of five days participants representing a range of different organisations explored ways the poorest and  most vulnerable can be supported both through strengthening the CLTS process and the introduction  of support mechanisms.                                                          

This Learning Paper is more than just a summary or record of the event, and aims to provide a starting point for the conversation on this critical subject to continue within the WASH sector. It focuses on strengthening the CLTS process, identifying and targeting people for support, the sequencing of support mechanisms, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders and the different support mechanisms and the associated risks. It concludes with summarising some emerging principles, considerations and recommendations which are not just relevant for CLTS programmes but other approaches, all of which are working towards equitable and adequate sanitation for all by 2030.

This publication complements the Learning Brief Supporting the least able throughout and beyond CLTS.