By Ahmed Ahmed
The Attah Psychology Helping Hand Foundation (ASHH) Foundation in Bauchi State has 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 stated this in an interview with newsmen 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 is vital to help them move forward.
Samuel said the foundation targeted two communities where SGBV incidents are notably prevalent.
“The communities of Kafin Madaki in Ganjuwa LGA and Miri in Bauchi LGA, Bauchi State, have been identified for focused intervention by the foundation, which staunchly advocates for the rights of women and girls.
“Since April 2023, The organisation has been conducting therapy sessions customized for survivors in these communities, thanks to funding from Women for Women International under the Resourcing change project (CSSF phase 2).
“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 monthly in each of the LGAs, provide 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 survivors have exhibited remarkable resilience and readiness for societal reintegration.
“The demographics of the resilient survivors, reveal that three survivors have endured domestic violence, three survivors have suffered from negligence, and one survivor has been subjected to forced marriage,” Samuel said.
The Monitoring and Evaluation officer stressed that they were also involved in counselling survivors of violence and offering psychological counselling to women residing in the safe house, both in individual and group therapy sessions.
“We also provide counselling 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 counselling therapy had worked on her returning to normal senses.
“I feel I was dejected by the community or the 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.