Blossom Inc continues to support clients during the pandemic

No doubt the pandemic continues to affect families and children physically, socially and emotionally. The NGO Blossom Inc. , continues to find ways to reach clients and to provide that coping mechanism, especially to parents with young children.

According to Child Advocacy Centre Coordinator for Blossom Inc Region 10 and Seven Office, Melissa Chapman, said while support was given remotely during the earlier stages of the pandemic, now some clients are met face to face every other week whilst others are being provided with tele-psychosocial support. “During these sessions, we help our clients and give them coping strategies and mechanisms to help them through this difficult time in their lives,” she related.

“Additionally, we are providing court support to our clients. We are letting them know that despite there is a pandemic, they do not have to go to court alone, they do not have to provide justice for themselves.”

For children experiencing abuse, the Blossom Inc. office continues to conduct forensic interviews with clients and the other partnering agencies such as the Childcare and Protection Agency, social workers, school’s welfare and the Sexual Offences Unit. This is accordance with the organization’s mission to respond, deliver and promote effective interventions and education services to children and families affected by sexual violence and exploitation.

The public is reminded to report all cases of abuse to the Childcare and Protection Agency, particularly now during the pandemic. “Remember that we cannot do it alone. Let us go back to being our neighbours’ keeper. Child protection is not just my business; it is everyone’s business.”

During the pandemic, it is evident that children have been affected the most. They have had to change their lives in a way that is unimaginable since their physical activities have been substituted by virtual activities. Many parents and children have related that this drastic change has caused frustration and many parents are finding it difficult to cope and to provide the necessary assistance their children need.  “Parents we urge you to forget how frustrated, burnt-out  and  hopeless you feel, and help us help you deter our children from participating in deviant acts. Let us gather as a commune and find measures that we can implement to divert our children’s attention to positive and beneficial activities for their well-being. Parents use this time wisely, turn that frown upside-down, find other alternatives,” Chapman related.