CDFs are an open space for sharing and debates, providing new communication channels between workers, management, trade unions and the broader community. This enables collective decisions about community development priorities and transparent negotiations on working conditions.
Ruvani, is a 24 year old woman who works on a casual basis on one of the tea gardens. In order to help her start her own business, she applied for, and was selected by the CDF for, a micro loan (approx. £65 at 0% interest rate). Like many other tea workers in Sri Lanka, Ruvani does not have an identity card to apply a loan from the formal financial institutions.
With this money, Ruvani started a food business with her husband, where she sells snacks and tea.