Healing for Victims of Assault and Trafficking

Project Report CONTENT WARNING: 

Cambodia has made strides in addressing gender-based violence and improving access to support services for survivors. However, cultural stigma, social norms, and systemic challenges continue to hinder survivors' ability to seek help and access comprehensive care. Survivors often face barriers such as fear of stigma, lack of awareness about available services, and limited resources for mental health support.

Lotus Outreach, in partnership with Cambodian Women's Crisis Center, implemented a counseling program for survivors of sexual abuse, trafficking, and domestic violence, aimed at addressing their psychosocial needs and promoting healing and empowerment. The program provides individual counseling, group therapy sessions, legal advocacy support to survivors, and reintegration. 

In 2023, there were 43 survivors using the shelter's resources (domestic violence cases: 19, sexual abuse: 22, trafficking: 2), and 77 relatives of survivors received mental and legal counseling. 32 cases filed legal complaints against their abusers, and 4 cases were reconciled outside the legal mediation process.

The project team has observed that there are many incidences of violence against women in Banteay Meanchey Province that are referred to our shelter. Additionally, our shelter has seen a rise in the number of incidents of sexual abuse in the region.

Our counseling services are tailored to the needs of survivors to provide a safe, supportive, and empowering space for healing and recovery. 

Theara’s story:

Theara, aged 40, is a hairdresser and clothing designer residing in Treas village. She has two children–a son and a daughter–and married her husband in 2005. Recently, she faced marital issues leading to serious arguments with her husband, prompting her decision to leave home. With no clear direction and limited resources, she left her husband with only a set of clothes.

Seeking refuge, she stayed at a relative's house before being referred to our shelter on July 27, 2023, to seek assistance in filing for divorce. She experienced feelings of hopelessness and despair, compounded by health issues such as joint pain and lack of funds for medical treatment. 

Upon arriving at the shelter, Theara felt intimidated by her husband, a police officer, and feared retaliation. Through counseling sessions focusing on emotional support, self-discovery, and group interactions, Theara gradually regained her confidence and developed strong bonds with fellow shelter residents. Actively participating in shelter activities, she emerged stronger and more empowered.

With the assistance of the program, Theara's separation case reached a resolution, bringing her immense relief and gratitude for the support provided during her stay at the shelter.

Dear donor:

Thank you for supporting the Counseling Program. Your donation has a profound impact on the lives of survivors who have sought refuge and support at our safe shelter. In the aftermath of trauma and adversity, counseling plays a crucial role in healing and empowerment, offering survivors a safe space to process their experiences, rebuild their sense of self, and envision a hopeful future.

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