Are We Ready? A Qualitative Study on the Knowledge Status and Gaps of Volunteers in Inclusive Disaster Management

Background/Objectives: Inclusive disaster management is increasingly recognized as essential for mitigating the heightened vulnerabilities faced by individuals with special needs during crises. This study aimed to examine the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of Search and Rescue Non-Governmental Organization (SAR-NGO) volunteers regarding the inclusion of individuals with special needs in disaster and emergency response scenarios. Methods: This qualitative case study was conducted in Eskişehir, Türkiye, involving 20 accredited SAR-NGO volunteers selected through criterion sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and reflective diaries by the researcher. The study explored the conceptualizations and operational practices of volunteers concerning inclusivity in disaster settings. Results: Findings indicate that SAR-NGO volunteers primarily associate special needs with visible physical and sensory impairments, demonstrating limited awareness of cognitive and invisible disabilities. Volunteers reported difficulties in identifying individuals with special needs during emergencies and encountered substantial communication barriers due to the lack of alternative communication tools and insufficient training. Despite receiving extensive technical training in search and rescue operations, participants revealed a significant lack of formal education on inclusive practices. Conclusions: Effective inclusive disaster response necessitates not only technical proficiency but also structured training in disability awareness, accessible communication, and inclusive intervention strategies. The study recommends revising volunteer training curricula to integrate participatory models involving individuals with disabilities and expanding inclusive disaster research across various regions. These findings highlight critical gaps in current disaster response systems and underscore the need for systemic reforms to achieve inclusive resilience.