Exploring the Possible Impacts of a Guaranteed Livable Income on Low Income Women with Disabilities in Nova Scotia: A Grounded Theory Analysis

Abstract

Women with disabilities are more likely rely on income assistance than women without disabilities or men with disabilities. In Nova Scotia, income assistance rates fall significantly below the poverty line, placing women with disabilities at risk of living in deep poverty and further contributing to the health disparities faced by this group. The implementation of a guaranteed livable income (GLI) is one possible solution to address the poverty they experience. The purpose of this thesis was to understand how women with disabilities experience living on income assistance, and to explore the possible impacts of a GLI on their lives. This was accomplished through interviewing women with disabilities as well as GLI advocates in Nova Scotia. Analysis was completed using constructivist grounded theory. This thesis indicated the positive impacts of a GLI, but it also highlighted the need for strong social supports to fully address the needs of women with disabilities.