A safe space for healing

Rukum West, Nepal: On 3 November 2023, eleven-year-old Ritu found her life changed dramatically. Among the lives lost in the devastating earthquake that hit 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 The once bright and curious sixth grader from Aaathbiskot Municipality in Rukum West District became withdrawn, reluctant to leave her home, and uninterested in school or games.

Ritu’s family and teachers grew increasingly concerned. “She was a different child,” her parents recall. “She used to be so lively.... 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’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), launched the Joint Recovery Action Plan (JRAP) this year. This joint programme is implemented by four UN agencies – IOM, UNFPA, UNICEF, and WFP – under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office.

As part of JRAP, in recognition of the psychological trauma children face during and after disasters, UNICEF and local partner SOSEC Nepal have established four Child-Friendly Spaces (CFS) across the region. Located in Jajarkot (Bheri and Nalgad Municipalities) and Rukum West (Sanibheri and Aathbiskot Municipalities), these spaces provide safe and nurturing environments for children. The CFSs offer a place where children can heal, engage in activities, and recover from the disaster's effects. Approximately 200 children in the two districts are currently enrolled in the CFS programme, supported by four facilitators and eight volunteers.

Despite the support available, Ritu was initially very hesitant to join the CFS. Understanding her reluctance, a counselor had reached out to her and her family. Over four focused sessions, the counselor gently encouraged Ritu to consider enrolling in the CFS. The turning point came when Ritu saw other friends from her neighborhood attending 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 unmistakable. “The CFS gave her a platform to express her feelings and reconnect with her peers,” says the counselor. “It was heartwarming to see her slowly regain her confidence and enthusiasm.”

Within the cheerful, supportive environment of the CFS, Ritu began to heal. She engaged in interactive activities and started showing a keen interest in playing again. Her fear began to dissipate, and she reconnected with her friends.

Ritu’s parents and teachers noticed the positive changes. “She attends school regularly now,” her teacher says. “She’s eager to engage with her classmates again.”

Ritu’s experience is thus a testament to how collaborative efforts under the JRAP can bring hope and healing to young children in the aftermath of disaster.