A safe place for healing

Rukum West, Nepal: On November 3, 2023, eleven-year-old Ritu saw her life change dramatically. Among the lives lost in the devastating earthquake that struck western Nepal that day was that of her best friend, a tragedy that left Ritu deeply traumatized and fearful. The once bright and curious sixth-grader from Aaathbiskot township in Rukum West district became withdrawn, reluctant to leave her home, and lost interest in school or games.

Ritu’s family and teachers became increasingly concerned. “She was a different child,” her parents recall.

“She was so alive… The earthquake took that away from her.”

To address the widespread impact of the earthquake on children and families, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), in partnership with United Nations Nepal and with the generous support of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), launched the Joint Recovery Action Plan (JRAP) this year. This joint programme is being implemented by four UN agencies – IOM, UNFPA, UNICEF and WFP – under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office.

As part of JRAP, UNICEF and local partner SOSEC Nepal have set up four Child Friendly Spaces (CFS) in the region, in recognition of the psychological trauma children experience during and after disasters.

These spaces, located in Jajarkot (Bheri and Nalgad townships) and Rukum West (Sanibheri and Aathbiskot townships), provide safe and nurturing environments for children. The CFSs provide a place for children to heal, engage in activities and recover from the effects of the disaster.

Currently, about 200 children in the two districts participate in the CFS program, supported by four facilitators and eight volunteers.

Despite the support available, Ritu was initially very hesitant to join the CFS. A counselor understood her reluctance and contacted her and her family. Over four focused sessions, the counselor gently encouraged Ritu to consider joining the CFS. The turning point came when Ritu saw other friends from her neighborhood going to the CFS and enjoying their time there. Their positive experiences gradually convinced her to give it a try.

With cautious optimism, Ritu joined the CFS, and the gradual transformation in her behavior was undeniable. “The CFS gave her a platform to express her feelings and reconnect with her peers,” says the counselor. “It was heartening to watch her slowly regain her confidence and enthusiasm.”

Within the happy, supportive environment of the CFS, Ritu began to heal. She participated in interactive activities and began to show a keen interest in play again. Her anxiety began to disappear and she reconnected with her friends.

Ritu’s parents and teachers noticed the positive changes.

“She’s going to school regularly now,” her teacher says. “She’s eager to socialize with her classmates again.”

Ritu’s experience is a testament to how collaborative efforts under the JRAP can provide hope and healing to young children after disasters.