We continue our work to support migrant African women and girls affected or at risk of female genital mutilation and other forms of gender-based violence. Our activities are designed to give support and advice from our team of experts.
We provide signposting to services offered by our partners, training and advocacy in communities, schools training and youth engagement, as well as training and support for frontline professionals from health and social services, legal, law enforcement, academic institutions and non-profits.
Providing safe space for African women
Our monthly coffee mornings provide a safe space for women to share, discuss and learn from each other’s experiences. We run these informal sessions alongside specialists. We discuss important topics – including FGM, mental health, domestic violence, reproductive health and family law.
Topics discussed are based on suggestions and outcomes from group discussions, such as:
- The impact of domestic violence on children’s mental health
- Dynamics between genders in the community
- Intergenerational relationships
- A woman’s ‘value’ in the family, home and community
- Sex and sexuality
Health and Leadership Skills Training
We provide health and leadership skills training for women and men to build their confidence to speak out against FGM and other forms of violence against women and girls in their communities. By developing their communication and leadership skills; developing their self-esteem; confidence and resilience, we support them to become community champions and advocates for change.
Community Health Advocates Programme
We provide training for community women to enable them to work with their peers in the heart of the community; supporting their peers to access available support services; offering information to safeguard and support girls at risk. This training is vital so that the women we work with and train can offer support to their friends and family.
“Listening to other community champions has given me more confidence and I can go out and deliver” Trainee
Self-care and Listening skills training for community women
We provide self-care and listening skills training for women affected by FGM who receive emotional support and guidance on how to practice self-care.
Community mobilisation and outreach
As part of our ongoing work with African communities in the UK, we actively forge new partnerships and links with community members, religious and community leaders – many who are men and raise awareness of the harmful effects of FGM and other forms of violence against women and children.
Community-based research
Community-based research, which encourages communities to be involved in the development of more effective programmes. We use our research to make recommendations to front line professionals supporting FGM affected communities. Professionals include health services, local authorities, law enforcement and community-based organisations.
