As RENEW, a civil society organisation, continues to work towards the empowerment of women, a new community service centre has been established in Zhemgang. Survivors of gender-based violence can seek support from the centre. Additionally, there is a safe place, a shelter, which can accommodate eight individuals.
The centre is located in Zhemgang town. Today, it has two officials providing services.
With the establishment of the centre, there are ten such centres in the country.
“The services offered by RENEW centre are as diverse as the needs of our community. From counselling and legal aid to vocational training and health care support, the centre provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at nurturing individuals and families towards a brighter future,” said Karma Yangzom, Centre Manager.
“We are pleased to report that there are outreach efforts, including citizenship campaigns, reaching over 48,000 community members, providing psychosocial support to numerous clients, from ten service centres,” said Meenakshi Rai (PhD), Programme and Services Director of RENEW.
Zhemgang residents welcomed the initiative.
“There is a safe place for any individual and it will be helpful when there is gender-based violence,” said Tashi Choden, a resident.
“Nazhoen Lamtoen deals with the children. Children face challenges and during such times, we can collaborate to provide the services,” said Sonam Tobgay.
UNICEF supported the establishment of the centre, which was inaugurated last week.
“I see this community centre’s expression will be a broader commitment from the Royal Government of Bhutan, to not only keep women and children safe but really to promote and fulfilling the rights of children. And this year, we are celebrating 50 years of partnership,” said Noala Skinner, Deputy Regional Director of UNICEF.
According to RENEW, the community centres are inclusive to meet the needs of men, boys, and the broader community requiring support.
Zhemgang recorded five gender-based violence cases, last year.
Almost 18,000 women and girls accessed support and services for gender-based violence related cases from the ten community centres established across the country, last year.
Pema Samdrup, Zhemgang
Edited by Tshering Zam
