| – Help and Shelter Rep.Addressing the scourge of domestic violence, child abuse and other such issues in any society is noKaren Gomeseasy task. However, not only has it been proven, but experts the world over have been promoting collaboration between various entities to combat the damning scourge of the social issues. Guyana is no different when it comes to embracing this notion which is aimed at effectively representing victims.The need for collaboration was recently amplified by Karen Gomes, a representative of Help and Shelter. That entity is one of the few local Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that have been widely recognized for its work in addressing domestic and sexual violence and child abuse over the years. In fact it has been over a decade, commencing in 1995, that the body was founded,Cheap Shoes Wholesale China Free Shipping, with a clear vision to battle the social challenges.According to Gomes, Help and Shelter was created with the view of fighting against the prevalence of all types of violence, especially those of a domestic and sexual nature, as well as those that affect children. Due diligence on the part of the NGO has seen it becoming a leader in the fight against violence in Guyana, so much so that last year it was honoured with a Medal of Service by the Government for its commitment to the troubling issue.Persistence in this regard, according to Gomes, is linked to the realisation that domestic violence, as well as other forms of violence, is not becoming a thing of the past, but rather,Cheap NFL Jerseys, there is evidence to suggest that such problems are on the increase.Studies on domestic violence in Guyana estimate that between one and two in every three women are victims, according to Gomes.“We also know that domestic violence against children, the disabled and the elderly,Cheap Dallas Cowboys Throwback Jerseys, is an epidemic in our country…and so we have recognised that when we are dealing with domestic violence it is important that we look at every member of the family, because a lot of times we don’t.”In order to properly carry out this task, Gomes said that it is imperative that “we look at the various agencies and how they can assist us…” These she pointed out are not limited to the Police Force and the Judicial System, but even community-based organisations such as churches and schools.For this reason,Stitched Baltimore Ravens Jerseys, Gomes said that Help and Shelter has included in its roles and responsibility, a plan to extensively raise awareness across all sectors, with a view of providing recourse for victims of various forms of violence.Recourse, she underscored, is sometimes very difficult for survivors of violent situations. As such, Help and Shelter has engaged efforts to secure recourse for victims through lobbying for the strengthening of relevant laws and implementation mechanisms where necessary.Additionally, Gomes noted that much effort is directed to building respect for the rights of women, children, youths and men exposed to abuse so that they can live free from violence and threats of violence. This, she said, is actively fostering high levels of awareness among members of the public.“One of our critical support activities is the support to women,Cheap Jerseys Free Shipping, men and children who are going through the court system as survivors of domestic violence and those who are sexually assaulted.”According to Gomes, although the focus on the court is important, the NGO is often restricted by its limitations, with the foremost being that of finances. She explained that because of the unavailability of adequate funding for this particular area “we would tend to look at victims mainly in Regions Three and Four…we are,NFL Jerseys Cheap, however, relying on the availability of other supportive services in the different Regions and therefore we see linking with partners as very important,” Gomes said.At the moment, Help and Shelter’s main clients are children thus it is imperative, Gomes said, for the available support to be extended to meet their spiritual,Cheap Jerseys From China, physical and mental needs.The body just recently revealed that it has been able to forge meaningful collaborations with various community-based organizations in Regions Three and Four with a view of further raising awareness about the importance of the rights of children.The move was made possible through funding from the European Union with support from the Concerned Citizens Against Domestic Abuse group in Atlanta, United States. The 15-month long programme was centred in the Region Three areas of Zeelugt and Hague, as well as Sophia and Good Hope, both in Region Four, and was intended to raise awareness within the communities with a view of giving parents and adults new skills aimed at encouraging non-violent and alternative methods of parenting.However, Project Coordinator Colin Marks has asserted that “we still have got work to do…” even as he assured that Help and Shelter has been and will continue to champion the work for and with vulnerable groups, especially those affected by violence. |
