Community level support is critical in any holistic and sustainable strategy to combat violence against women. Consequently, community groups were created as part of project activities consisting of leading men and women, gatekeepers and community workers who were committed to creating safer spaces for women in their communities.

In Nepal, 66 Community Advocacy Group s (CAGs) were formed compri-sing teachers, social workers, former FPA members and government personnel. In Bangladesh, 12Caretaker Groups (CTGs) were set up consisting of 7-10 women and men. Members of CAGs and CTGs were provided with relevant orientation and training.

The CAGs and CTGs were involved in several awareness building initiatives. In Nepal, activities of CAgs included song contests, street dramas and women's oratory contests to advocate against Gender Based Violence. In Bangladesh, the CTGs were able to secure the involvement of community leaders in this work. The local administration now refers GBV cases to the CTGs for mediation.

Interviews and discussions with the Community Groups in both countries showed their strength and resolve to address the issue of violence. They also highlighted the sometimes difficult atmosphere in which the group have to work. In both countries the groups reported that violence is often treated as a 'family' affair and members of the groups face upset and disgruntled family members. However, despite these difficulties the CAGs and CTGs remain committed to tackling GBV in their community. Survivors and service providers confirm the important role played by CTGs/CAGs by providing round the clock support to women at risk. Service Providers in both countries note that the project benefitted enormously from the work and commitment of these groups.

CAG and partner agencies at a training workshop, Nepal

A community meeting on GBV, Bangladesh