The House of Sarah Safe Home (SSH) welcomed 10 participants from the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) Regional Training Program today, providing an opportunity to share insights into the shelter’s establishment, operations, and the challenges encountered in the process.

Participants included women and men from Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Tonga, Nauru, and Fiji. The group expressed a strong interest in learning about SSH’s journey, especially as they aim to establish similar safe shelters in their own countries to support survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.

SSH staff outlined key steps in the shelter’s formation, from community partnerships and funding strategies to operational protocols. The group also discussed common challenges, including resource constraints, legal considerations, and cultural sensitivities.

The session concluded with a guided tour of the facility. Participants were impressed with the infrastructure and support systems available for survivors, including counselling spaces, secure accommodation, and child-friendly areas.

This knowledge-sharing exchange reflects growing regional collaboration in advancing protection services and support mechanisms for survivors of violence.