Islamic Relief is providing a unique service that promotes psychological wellbeing amongst vulnerable children in Gaza. In the wake of on-going conflict and restrictions, many people struggle with trauma, anxiety, frustration and fear.
The Child and Family Psycho-social Centre in Gaza city focuses on proactive prevention, child development, and therapy.
Children benefit from positive guidance and activities, as well as specialist counselling and therapy where needed. Over 100 children have benefitted from summer school, where they are encouraged to express and work through their feelings, as well as enjoy recreational trips which promote inclusion.
Islamic Relief also raises awareness of childhood disorders, supporting families to develop the skills they need to understand and help their children. This includes providing social support, including family counselling and activities.
Hanan, 8, is one of the children to have accessed services at the Centre. Referred by her school, she suffered from anxiety, which resulted in hair-plucking, nail-biting and involuntary urination. Hanan struggled to concentrate at school.
She received specialist counselling and behavioural therapy, which has improved her psychological wellbeing.
“She has stopped plucking her hair,” says Hanan’s mother. “It is longer now and I can comb it for her, she has also overcome the urination problem. My daughter has improved a lot.”
In addition, Islamic Relief works with teachers, helping them to increase their understanding of child development, and knowledge of disorders and their impact upon children.