SVSG VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVES
SVSG is currently working in partnership with Caritas New Zealand through a one year project that commenced in January 2011 for SVSG’s Village Representatives.
The Project aims at empowering SVSG’s established Village Reps throughout Upolu, Savaii and Manono-tai, in responding to domestic violence and sexual abuse cases in the community. The major component of the Project involves training SVSG Village Reps to be able to provide the first assistance within their respective villages, to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
It is important to note that the aim of this Project is not to train counsellors or case workers, but to create an information network to provide education and awareness. The project therefore represents an important shift away from a silent acceptance of gender-based violence and sexual crimes – which has been apparent in Samoa in the past – towards vocal and visual community solidarity and action.
In starting this family known as SVSG Village Representatives, or SVSG Village Reps, it’s incredible to see it's fast growth. Ever since when Village Reps were appointed from SVSG's village consultation in 2010, Village Reps have been keen on taking on their duties, by being the eyes and ears of the village, as they are quick to respond to any crisis, if it were to surface. They were excited to be involved in supporting future activities of the Samoa Victim Support Group to support and be part of those.
The Project aims at empowering SVSG’s established Village Reps throughout Upolu, Savaii and Manono-tai, in responding to domestic violence and sexual abuse cases in the community. The major component of the Project involves training SVSG Village Reps to be able to provide the first assistance within their respective villages, to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
It is important to note that the aim of this Project is not to train counsellors or case workers, but to create an information network to provide education and awareness. The project therefore represents an important shift away from a silent acceptance of gender-based violence and sexual crimes – which has been apparent in Samoa in the past – towards vocal and visual community solidarity and action.
In starting this family known as SVSG Village Representatives, or SVSG Village Reps, it’s incredible to see it's fast growth. Ever since when Village Reps were appointed from SVSG's village consultation in 2010, Village Reps have been keen on taking on their duties, by being the eyes and ears of the village, as they are quick to respond to any crisis, if it were to surface. They were excited to be involved in supporting future activities of the Samoa Victim Support Group to support and be part of those.
Training |
Training Workshops have been completed in all villages of 'Upolu and Savai'i. SVSG Village Reps were distributed specific guidelines which helped educate them on various facets of SVSG.
The training was conducted in different districts. SVSG Village Reps from various villages convened in a central point which was most convenient for them to get to. Upon completion of their training, SVSG Village Reps from various villages felt very proud to have improved their skills, and realized their significant role within their respective villages. Each member was given a file containing pertinent information which they could reference and have quick access to. |
Response from the Village Representatives... |
The reaction from the participating groups and the SVSG Village Reps was very positive. Working in conjunction with SVSG, they saw hope for the future and the safety of the younger generation as issues of abuse and molestation are finally being dealt with.
Many severe cases, such as rape, incest, and domestic violence, have been reported to the SVSG office by the SVSG Village Reps since the start of this training. In fact, with each other's support, SVSG Village Reps are no longer afraid to do their work or to relay any deviant behavior to the SVSG office or to the Police Department. |
Village Support |
In Samoa, the Village Council, formally recognised by the Village Fono Act 1990, deal exclusively with village affairs such as culture, customs and traditions comprising of high-chiefs and orators. The support from them for the Village Response Project has been very impressive. In fact, some domestic violence and sexual assault cases which had been restrained by villagers for years, has now, come out, with the knowledge and support gained through training, in which the offenders have been brought in and severely penalized.
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Savaii Village Reps’ Meeting |
In June 2011, Savai'i hosted its first formal meeting in which all Savai'i Village Reps attended. The main purpose for this meeting was to select Steering Committee members who would oversee all of the Savai'i Village Reps. It was also planned that the Steering Committee should discuss issues only through the Village Reps’ Co-ordinator and the Executive.
The way in which the Steering Committee was chosen was done through cultural means called, "Pule e Ono i Salafai." The Village Reps in Savai’i decided it was the easiest way for them to select their committee. This meeting also provided the opportunity for Reps to share the work they have done including their success stories. These Reps have testified that they have made a difference in encouraging other Village Reps to improve the work and services that they provide. |
Samoa Victim Support Office in Tuasivi |
SVSG's Savai'i office was officially opened about 6 years ago, but shortly, it was closed. On the 10th of June 2011, the office reopened its doors again. Members of SVSG's Steering Committee along with other Savai'i Reps have been appointed to come in, work, and handle cases and referrals in this office.
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