SUVA, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- Women and girls escaping gender-based violence in Fiji will have access to emergency accommodation, counseling and other support services following the opening of a new Women's Safe Shelter in Lautoka, the country's second largest city.
The facility, which begins receiving survivors from Monday, will provide a safe and confidential environment for women and girls facing violence and other forms of vulnerability.
Services will include emergency accommodation, trauma-informed counseling, social work assistance, case management and referrals to health, legal and other support services.
The location of the shelter is being kept confidential to protect the safety and privacy of survivors, reported Fiji Broadcasting Corporation on Friday.
Opening the shelter, Minister for Women and Children Sashi Kiran said the need for safe accommodation and support services was becoming increasingly complex as women and children faced challenges extending beyond domestic and gender-based violence.
She highlighted growing concerns over drug abuse, trafficking, child exploitation and teenage pregnancies, calling for stronger parenting, family and community involvement in protecting children.
The shelter is operated by Empower Pacific, a Fiji-based organization providing counseling, social, and community support services. ■