Survivor Support Groups in Nepal and Bangladesh
|
|
SSGs |
No. of women |
|
Nepal |
160 |
1,239 |
|
Bangladesh |
125 |
828 | |
Survivor Support Groups (SSGs were formed in each project area and provided survivors with a forum for support, comfort and strength. They also provided a uniquely successful entry point for the delivery of a range of empowerment activities for women.
Endline data confirm that SSG members received training on a range of issues including how to identify and support a survivor, problem solving skills, reproductive health and family planning and micro credit. Survivors also demonstrated increased awareness and knowledge about the different types of violence, such as sexual, social, physical and mental and their causes.
The Role of Survivor Support Groups:
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"As members of the SSG we approach the perpetrators to mediate and to sounsel. We seek help from the police or local administration as need be through FPAN".
- Radha Subedhi, SSG Chairperson, Sarlahi, Nepal |
Provide emotional and practical support to each other
Identify other survivors and/or those at risk of violence·
Undertake home visits where required and appropriate·
Intervene and mediate in cases of GBV e.g. child marriage and dowry demands·
Organise and participate in community level IEC activities·
Refer survivors to MA clinics for services·
Work in partnership with key organisations working in the field of GBV
Work in partnership with community caretaker/ advocacy groups.
Member of a Survivor Support Group in Bangladesh engaged in group work during training (2006)
The evaluation shows that participation in SSGs has helped survivors develop strong group solidarity and self-esteem. It has also increased their negotiating power for greater self protection and to access SRH services. In many project districts members of SSGs have become strong advocates against GBV, using IEC tools developed as part of project activities, often working closely with community gatekeepers. Project documents show several anecdotal accounts where SSG members have undertaken home visits to protect women and young girls at risk of violence.
"I know the pain of survivors and I work in the community on issues of early marriage and domestic violence. I am now referring women to FPAB for mediation. I succeeded in stopping to early marriages. I give counselling on sexual and reporductive rights, violence against women who are pregnant and I organise street theatre. FPAB has changed my life".
- Firouza Begum, SSG Member, Comilla, Bangladesh