Women & Girls Programme Update May 2025- “Survivors, Not Victims: Voices of Courage, Care, and Change”

Survivors Not Victims - Demanding Change

Programme Update

At the Heartbeat Centre young girls are transitioning from a lifetime in institutions into society and are being cared for by Shamali, once a domestic violence victim herself and is now a survivor and a ‘foster mother’— giving the girls that beautiful feeling of warmth and love for the very first time in their lives.

It was a deeply emotional to witness these girls, who were once terrified to even walk along a street or enter a supermarket, now stepping into their freedom, thanks to the help of our incredible team. The girls are no longer under the so called ‘protection’ or control of the courts; they are free for the first time, building strength and resilience.

They refuse to be defined as victims. Instead, they are embracing education and learning English with our dedicated long standing volunteer Julie Sinclair.

They are becoming strong survivors with a life plan and stories to tell - and demanding change for the children who remain trapped in institutions.

One brave girl handed over a letter she had written with two others, asking us to give it to a journalist. She said, “We want the world to know our stories.”

The letter was translated—it took 12 minutes to read aloud—and it was utterly devastating. The words detailed years of deprivation, favouritism, physical and sexual abuse, and beatings so severe that broom handles would break into pieces. We listened in stunned silence, tears pouring as the gravity of their suffering sank in.

The Heartbeat Centre offers a family model of care and is acknowledged and recognised by National Childcare Services as a new and successful concept.

From Crisis to Confidence at WDC

Our partnership with The Women's Development Centre (WDC) continues to provide vital support to women and girls affected by violence through its Crisis Intervention Centre and three shelters. These centres prioritise protection, education, health, and economic empowerment, offering survivors a safe and nurturing environment to recover and rebuild their lives.

In 2024, 84 women and girls received shelter and care, with over 22 successfully reintegrated with families or communities. Vocational training was a key focus, with over 65 women and girls benefiting from 10 training courses, supporting their journey toward financial independence. In addition, 21 girls were enrolled in formal education, including OL and AL classes, and achieved notable milestones—one being selected for a dance competition in India and another appointed as a school head prefect.

A shining example of the centre’s impact is Stella, a 13-year-old survivor who, through education, vocational training, and employment support, transitioned from crisis to independence and now supports her blind parents.

We are grateful to Krystyna Gadd who has raised almost £3000 for WDC and recently volunteered with the girls to teach them valuable weaving skills.