Testimonial from Maria
“Tdh launched this project in Syria in 2007 and in Jordan in 2008. The Iraqi refugees live in fear and isolation there. They are scattered through the towns and not dare make contact with each other because of the differences between the Shiite and Sunnite communities. They trust no one and there are no community networks.
The mothers often report how greatly their isolation weighs on them: the centres supported by Tdh are the only places where they can speak of their worries and fears. The sessions with psychologists serve as vessels, neutral containers into which they can pour their distress, particularly their fear that their children will never forget what they have suffered.
In these centres the women learn to smile again, their faces light up when they see the children playing games. Singing Iraqi songs reinforces their cultural identity; the psychologists support those who need it most. These psychosocial and recreational activities have rapid results in terms of the children’s wellbeing. The centres also allow the vulnerability of these children to be assessed. Discrimination, exploitation (children going out to work and prostitution), sexual violence, detention and repatriation are becoming increasingly common.
Tdh is planning to increase the scope of its work in these 2 countries: to establish a child protection policy with its local partners in Syria and to offer its skills in youth justice in Jordan.”
- Maria, Psychologist with Tdh
