SBCSHI's Safe Space Success Story
Strength Bond Care and Safety Health Initiative (SBCSHI) created a transformative safe space in Lagos, Nigeria, offering refuge and support to marginalized individuals, including LGBTQ persons facing discrimination and exclusion.
The Safe Space
SBCSHI's safe space served as:
1. Sanctuary: A welcoming environment for those seeking safety and community.
2. Support Hub: Offering counseling, peer support, and linkage to services.
3. Empowerment Center: Fostering skills development and self-expression.
Key Features
- Non-Judgmental Atmosphere: Staff and volunteers promoted acceptance.
- Diverse Services: Included health info, psychosocial support, and social connection opportunities.
- Community Building: Facilitated connections among members, reducing isolation.
Impact
- Emotional Support: Members reported feeling safer and more supported.
- Skill Development: Participants accessed workshops on livelihoods, self-care.
- Networking: Safe space fostered friendships and community ties.
- Referrals: Linkages to health, legal, and other needed services.
Testimonial
"The SBCSHI safe space saved me. I found acceptance and support when I felt like I had nowhere to turn." – A safe space user.
Challenges
- Security Considerations: Ensuring safety in Nigeria's context required careful planning.
- Sustainability: Ongoing effort to maintain and expand the space's impact.
Activities
- Support Groups: Regular meetings for shared experiences and coping strategies.
- Workshops: On topics like self-care, rights awareness.
- Social Events: Celebrations and gatherings fostering belonging.
Outcome
SBCSHI's safe space exemplified creation of inclusive environments addressing needs of vulnerable populations in Nigeria, highlighting power of supportive community spaces.
