Many gender programmes focus on women but in Nauru, the Women’s Affairs Directorate (WAD) of the Ministry of Home Affairs, has also been turning its focus on men with the view to eliminating violence against women.
The Self Help Ending Domestics (SHED) programme focuses on changing men’s behaviors and attitudes. It provides a place for men to discuss their challenges and concerns, and to receive counseling.
“The programme targets changes that need to be made at all levels, particularly changes in perception, attitude, opinions and biases on violence against women. Additionally, the programme also addresses challenges that deal with having to accept, and be responsible for, actions that cause violence against woman.”says Director for Women Affairs, Joy Heine.
The SHED programme was established by the Government of Nauru in June 2014. Its aim was to address the issue of gender based violence from the perspective of both the woman and man. For the women of Nauru there is a welcoming space within the safe house. The safe house was established in 2008 and the programme involves stakeholders such as departments of justice, police and the local community.
“When there are challenges, it is important that space is provided for men to be able speak to someone about what has occurred, particularly in cases of violence against women. It’s important that there is also a focus on the men and noting that women are also part of the solution.” says Project Officer Victoria Scotty.
The SHED programme is currently assisted by the Correctional Office, Department of Justice, Police DV Unit, church leaders, media and community representatives.
Edward Grundler, co-ordinator of the SHED programme says “The programme is inclusive in that the facilities also cater for refugees and visitors. This is ongoing; we have a men’s ongoing group where we share information that can be used to provide assistance, help and support for those seeking the required assistance from the programme. This is also inclusive of refugees and visitors.”