When it comes to being there for people who’ve suffered violence, just a private space can go a long way. But if that space can feel safe and welcoming, that makes a huge difference in the way the person seeking help might feel. That’s why we’re back at the counseling kiosk in Oruchinga settlement today, Day 132.
The space needed a few small changes. We were able to get a rug so there’s something soft under foot. There’s also lots of toys and stuffed animals for younger visitors, and plants to give the space a calming feeling. Inside the cabinet are some of the essentials we need for a counseling space – tissues, pamphlets, and information about other services available. Soon the walls will be painted, and then cushions for the benches will be the final touch.
Dan Banjera, an RN at the health clinic the counseling kiosk is attached to, was glad to see we’d thought of these softer touches. “There are lots of cases of violence, but people don’t want to report them. All of this [pointed around the kiosk] may help them to come here, share with the counselor and open up.”
