The Attah Sisters Helping Hand Foundation said it provided psychological support to 20 survivors of sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) in Bauchi and Ganjuwa local government areas.
Mrs. Rita Samuel, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the foundation, announced this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Bauchi
She noted that for many victims and survivors of gender-based violence, having access to a safe space and receiving psychological support was vital to help them move forward.
Samuel said the foundation targeted two communities where SGBV incidents were notably prevalent.
“The communities of Kafin Madaki in Ganjuwa LGA and Miri in Bauchi LGA have been identified for focused intervention by the foundation, which staunchly advocates the rights of women and girls.
“Since April 2023, the foundation has been conducting therapy sessions customised for survivors in these communities, thanks to funding from Women for Women International under the Resourcing Change Project
“A total of 20 survivors of SGBV, with 10 from each selected LGA, have been enrolled in these therapy sessions.
She added that the sessions held once a month in each of the LGAs, in a supportive environment for survivors to heal and recover.
According to her, the supportive measures employed to aid in their recovery are engaging in recreational activities such as playing games like Ludo and Dar, as well as dancing, aimed at diverting attention from the trauma they are facing.
“Among the 20 survivors enrolled, 7 have exhibited remarkable resilience and readiness for societal reintegration.
“The demographics of the resilient survivors reveal that three survivors have endured domestic violence, three suffered from negligence, and one has been subjected to forced marriage,” Samuel said.
The monitoring and evaluation officer stressed that they were also involved in counseling survivors of violence and offering psychological counseling to women residing in the safe house, both in individual and group therapy sessions.
“We also provide counseling to women living at home who visit the office seeking assistance and advice.
“This approach ensures that women affected by domestic violence receive the necessary psychological support, regardless of their living situation.
A survivor, Miss Ladi Seni-Bulus, acknowledged that counseling and therapy had worked on her returning to normal senses.
“I feel I was rejected by the community or society after the unfortunate incident that happened to me. I am very okay,” she said.
Seni-Bulus appreciated the foundation for giving care and moral support during their travels. (NAN)
