Counselling hotline launched to support Namibian girls and young women

WINDHOEK, 02 JUN- A counselling hotline has been launched to help girls and women who are in distress and who need someone to talk to. It aims to help girls and women in Namibia “establish their purpose and restore their identities”. This initiative also serves as a proactive approach in light of the recent protests to curb and speak out against gender-based…

WINDHOEK, 02 JUN (NAMPA) – A counselling hotline has been launched to help girls and women who are in distress and who need someone to talk to.

According to a media statement issued by the ‘Blessed Is She’ project on Monday, the hotline will provide confidential phone counselling to girls and women across the country 24/7. It aims to help girls and women in Namibia “establish their purpose and restore their identities”.

The initiative is run by Change of Life Style (C.O.L.S), a registered non-governmental organisation that offers mentoring programmes.

“The counselling hotline was birthed after we received multiple enquiries of girls and women who just needed someone to talk to when they felt trapped and alone. This initiative also serves as a proactive approach in light of the recent protests to curb and speak out against gender-based violence which has plagued our country,” Blessed Is She Founder, Nicole Willemse said.

Willemse further explained that the counselling hotline is a safe platform where girls across the country can not only talk to a friend over the phone about any concerns they have but also receive immediate assistance to the extent that they are able to provide at the time. She added that the counselling will include dealing with various problems such as feeling anxious, angry, fearful, distressed, or alone.

“A team of eight counsellors with backgrounds in psychology and social work are equipped and ready to offer professional help,” she said, adding that girls and women throughout the country can contact 0817388399 or 0857604000.

(NAMPA)

SS/PS/EK