86 July 2013 www.womanthismonth.com Women in Bahrain have made their mark in many spheres, but there are times when they end up vulnerable and helpless, finding themselves to be victims of violence and abuse from their own family. It is for women caught in such circumstances that Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre (AYFCC) offers support. “Every month, we receive between six to 10 cases of women being beaten up by their husbands or families. Women were shy in the past, but they have now started to talk about their problems and seek help, which is a good sign,” says Amira Al Oraibi, supervisor of the centre. Since the AYFCC doesn’t have residential facilities, victims of abuse are provided accommodation at the Dar Al Aman and the Dar Al Karama shelters for up to two months. This year, the centre received 28 fresh cases until May, whereas it is following up 1,108 cases since its inception in 2007. Family disputes and legal cases involving divorce, custody of children and alimony comprise a majority of cases that the AYFCC handles. Then, there are disputes arising out of drug abuse, unemployment, limited income and interference from in-laws. “Our social workers provide a patient hearing to these women and their case history is recorded in files. There are further meetings with psychologists and lawyers, depending on the sort of problem the victim is facing. We also hold programmes and workshops guiding women to solve their problems, deal with husbands and handle divorce cases,” says Amira. The AYFCC gives all services free of charge and complete secrecy is maintained about the victim and her case. In specific instances where the victim is unable to bear the legal expenses, the centre contributes the lawyer’s fee. However, the court is considered a last resort, only after the victim and her advisors have ascertained that there is no other alternative for redress. The centre was inaugurated in Hamad Town in 2007 with the building being donated by the Yateem Family. It is run by the Bahrain Young Women’s Association, which has been providing family counselling to women since 1998. Group therapy sessions are often conducted to teach women to relax, think positively, breathe correctly and solve their problems creatively. In the coming years, Amira aims to add a sex clinic with a Ministry of Health-trained gynaecologist, as well as a full-time psychologist on the premises. by SIMI KAMBOJ Very often, women caught up in family disputes and domestic violence find it difficult to seek help. Aisha Yateem Family Counselling Centre offers assistance for such cases. Helping Hand lifestyle | community
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