Domestic violence and abuse is a widespread problem across Albania (but not just in Albania) with nearly 3 in 5 women admitting that they have been victims of abuse at some point in their lives. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT Recently, the Mission’s team in Durres participated in a 16 day campaign against domestic violence, called ‘Break the silence! No violence’. Those attending were either victims themselves, or were concerned about the issues of domestic violence. The Mission’s coordinators have been trained to identify the warning signs of domestic abuse and invited at risk women from our Family sponsorship programme. In a small, friendly group atmosphere the women were encouraged to share their experiences. Sadly, you could often tell by the look in their eyes or their reactions to certain questions, what they were facing at home. The courage needed for women to speak out about what they faced was immense. What seemed incredible to the women was that anyone would take the time to listen to them or be able to help them when they did share about their problems. They were offered counselling and given strategies to help deal with future violence and abuse. But for all the women, the campaign gave them a sense of empowerment in whatever situation they were facing. Empowering Women MISSIONWITHOUTBORDERS
Transcript
Domestic violence and abuse is a widespread problem across Albania (but not just in Albania) with nearly 3 in 5 women admitting that they have been victims of abuse at some point in their lives.
EMOTIONAL
SUPPORT
Recently, the Mission’s team in Durres participated in a 16 day campaign against domestic violence, called ‘Break the silence! No violence’. Those attending were either victims themselves, or were concerned about the issues of domestic violence.
The Mission’s coordinators have been trained to identify the warning signs of domestic abuse and invited at risk women from our Family sponsorship programme. In a small, friendly group atmosphere the women were encouraged to share their experiences. Sadly, you could often tell by the look in their eyes or their reactions to certain questions, what they were facing at home.
The courage needed for women to speak out about what they faced was immense. What seemed incredible to the women was that anyone would take the time to listen to them or be able to help them when they did share about their problems.
They were offered counselling and given strategies to help deal with future violence and abuse. But for all the women, the campaign gave them a sense of empowerment in whatever situation they were facing.
Empowering Women
MISSIONWITHOUTBORDERS
RESULTS:We have seen a number of success stories as a result of this ministry, where marriages have been restored. We feel it is important that families have the opportunity to hear the gospel, because it is only through a relationship with Christ that a deeper and more lasting impact can be made in their lives.
Unfortunately, we’re not able to save every marriage. Where the safety of the mother and children is at risk, they are referred to a centre for abused women, where we continue to visit them.
It is an exhausting emotional rollercoaster working on the frontlines. The support and compassion and prayers from donors across the world is key to reaching as many families and women in need as possible.
Prevention: educating the childrenOften domestic violence is handed down from generation to generation. The son follows the example his father sets and the daughter sees her mother as vulnerable to abuse.
To break this vicious cycle, we work with the teenagers in our care. We talk about domestic violence and what they can do to help difficult family situations. We also encourage them about their future and the need for education so that they won’t follow in their parents’ footsteps.
Working with the MenBecause men are often the perpetrators of domestic violence, it is important for our coordinators to meet with them and understand the root causes of their abuse. Most problems are caused by a strong patriarchal mentality combined with the hopelessness and frustration of unemployment, alcoholism, and anger. It is a challenge getting the men to come due to pride, disempowerment and shame. Great changes take place once they are willing to receive help.
After some progress is made, both the husband and wife receive counselling together. Then we organise for them to attend outside events where they can meet other stable couples so they can see what a normal relationship looks like. We also hold marriage seminars, which have been a great tool to strengthen relationships.
The Mission is actively engaged in promoting emotional health and healing – here are some more examples:
• Trained Coordinators experienced in dealing with social and behavioural difficulties.
• Anti-trafficking information for children (Moldova)• Pastoral support for sponsored families and elderly• Life skills training classes for youth• Parenting courses• Marriage seminars
Direct Credit Payments: Our bank account is 06-0185-0122206-12 If you would like us to issue a receipt for tax rebate purposes, please include or email us your name, supporter number (if you have one) and a reference code: ES: Emotional Support WMN: Where most needed You can also donate by credit card via our website.
