Women experiencing gender-based violence in the Western Division will now have greater access to immediate protection and support following the soft launch of a new Women’s Safe Shelter in Lautoka.

The facility, managed by Empower Pacific, will provide a safe and supportive environment for women, including mothers with children, who need protection from violence.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran says the shelter will ensure women escaping violence have somewhere safe to turn.

“A woman escaping violence should never have to choose between remaining in an unsafe situation and having nowhere to go. A safe shelter gives her the protection, support and space she needs to begin rebuilding her life with dignity,” Kiran said.

Women accessing the facility will also be connected to counselling, psychosocial support and other services aimed at helping them recover, rebuild their confidence and work towards greater independence.

Empower Pacific Operations Manager Mereisi Tavaiqia says support for survivors must go beyond simply providing a safe place to stay, as every woman has different needs while moving from crisis towards recovery and reintegration into the community.

Kiran also acknowledged Empower Pacific for working with Government and continuing to provide counselling and psychosocial support to vulnerable individuals and families.

She stressed that violence against women and girls must never be accepted or normalised and that every woman has the right to feel safe in her home and community.

The new Lautoka shelter forms part of wider efforts by the Ministry and its partners to strengthen services for women and children experiencing violence, including shelters, counselling, referrals and other forms of support.