The National Coordinating Coalition Inc Gender-Based Violence team continued their outreaches in Barima Waini with a stop at Parakeese Islands today. Gathering at the village’s ICT Hub, around 40 community members attended, including 8 men.
Attorney Mr. Hugh Park took the lead, providing an engaging simulation that walked through the pathway for a gender-based violence survivor – from initially reaching out via the helpline or digital platform, all the way through to legal recourse and justice. He also reiterated the Guyana Police Force’s policy on urgently handling domestic violence cases.
The village council leader Mr. Samuel Thornhill was in attendance and brought up several key issues affecting the community that often lead to domestic violence incidents, with substance abuse being the most prominent challenge. Mr. Jackman ICT Specialist along with GBV Specialist Ms. Buedeen Williams addressed his questions, explaining how the NCC’s Community Support Officer Ms. Jemima Franci will partner with local offices like the welfare office and subdivision police to coordinate solutions.
Councilor Ms. Noreeva Griffith, representing partner agency United Brick Layers, led a discussion specifically for the men in attendance. She touched on the importance of men’s mental health and the different forms of child abuse beyond just physical abuse.
As the outreach wrapped up, GBV Specialist Ms. Buedeen Williams reiterated that all NCC services are free, confidential and handled professionally for any open cases logged on their digital platform. The team then distributed care packages to families and individuals.
The NCC’s ability to bring this service outreach directly to remote communities like Parakeese Island is crucial for raising awareness, offering resources, and ensuring survivors of gender-based violence across Guyana can access the organization’s legal, counseling and other support services. More village visits are planned in Barima Waini over the coming days.
These programs are supported by IDB Lab , Local Engagement and Action Fund – LEAF and High Commission of Canada to Guyana and Suriname