Project Title:
Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Services for 1,000 Affected Victims of Banditry in Niger State
Funding Partners:
UNDP/Niger State Government
Project Status
Project Overview
Years of banditry and insecurity in Niger State have left many individuals and families struggling with trauma, grief, and psychological distress. Access to mental health services remains limited, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas.
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) project seeks to address these challenges by providing accessible, community-based psychosocial support while strengthening local systems for sustainable mental health care.
Project Objectives
The project provides psychosocial support and coping strategies to 1,000 individuals affected by violence, while increasing awareness of mental health and wellbeing through radio messaging in English and local languages. It also focuses on training and empowering 60 community-based lay counselors, ensuring that support remains available within communities beyond the life of the project. Clear referral pathways and helplines are established to connect individuals to specialized care when needed.
Who the Project Supports
The project supports survivors of violence, family members of affected individuals, displaced persons, and community members experiencing trauma linked to prolonged insecurity.
Our Approach
Safer World Foundation adopts a community-based, culturally sensitive MHPSS approach that prioritizes dignity, trust, and accessibility. By equipping lay counselors and working alongside local service providers, the project strengthens community-level support while linking beneficiaries to formal mental health services where appropriate.
Expected Impact
The project is expected to improve psychological wellbeing and coping capacity among beneficiaries, reduce stigma around mental health, and strengthen local systems for mental health support in conflict-affected communities.
Partnerships
The project is implemented in partnership with UNDP and the Niger State Government, in close collaboration with local leaders, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders.
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