June 5, 2025, Bajhang – Saathi conducted a comprehensive monitoring and capacity-building visit to the Women’s Safe House in Bajhang under the GBVPR II Program, supported by UNFPA. The visit aimed to assess the quality and relevance of shelter services, engage with beneficiaries and stakeholders, and strengthen the overall operational and institutional capacity of the safe house. The visiting team included Mr. Santosh Pokharel (Portfolio Manager), Ms. Palita Thapa (GBV Program Manager), Mr. Devendra Basnet (Finance Officer), and Mr. Khadga Oli (Finance Associate).
Using the Quality Improvement Tool, the team conducted a thorough assessment of the physical infrastructure, service delivery standards, safety measures, case management, and psychosocial support. Although the shelter was found to be functioning adequately, key areas for improvement were identified, particularly related to the recent relocation and the need to strengthen the setup and management systems in the new site.
As part of the visit, a coaching and mentoring session titled “Gender-Based Violence: Attitudes and Perceptions” was conducted on 6 June 2025 for the shelter staff. This interactive session enabled participants to reflect on unconscious biases, embrace survivor-centered and trauma-informed approaches, and reinforce the importance of empathy and dignity in service provision. Staff members committed to incorporating these learnings into their daily practices to better support survivors.
A major highlight of the visit was the Advocacy Meeting held on 5 June 2025, which brought together a wide range of stakeholders including the Mayor, Deputy Chief of the District Coordination Committee, Chief Administrative Officer, UNFPA District Coordinator, Women Development Officer, and representatives from NGOs, police, OCMC, and other relevant institutions. This multi-sectoral forum provided a critical space for dialogue on the operational challenges and sustainability of the safe house, especially for beneficiaries requiring long-term rehabilitation and support. Participants also discussed the barriers women face in accessing vital documents such as citizenship certificates.
As a key outcome, the meeting agreed to request all municipalities in the district to allocate fund for the operation and management of the District-Level Women’s Safe House. Additionally, it was decided that follow-up action would be taken to facilitate the provision of citizenship certificates to eligible beneficiaries.
