These past few weeks have been challenging for me and thankful for great advice from lawyers to seek help from the Samoa Victim Support Group regarding my situation. At the first message, Lina Chang answered after I explained to my situation and what I needed. I usually don’t ask for help outside of my circle of friends and family, but when you are seeking a special kind of help, you go to the right people.

I was told to come in for a meeting around 8 am the next day. I didn’t know what to expect but I prepared myself and wrote down what I wanted to say. I was a few minutes late and called Lina ahead of time. When I arrived, her team answered the door politely and told me to take a seat. Lina was with me shortly and then the process began. My statement was taken, a case officer was assigned to me and

then a female police officer joined us to make sure I understood my rights and the process.

I felt safe inside their office and I knew I was in good hands. My case was handled with care and understanding. My questions were answered well and thoroughly.

The case officer and the police officer escorted me down to the courthouse, submitted my statement before the judge and made sure I was all right when I went to leave. The customer service throughout the whole process was positive and encouraging. SVSG’s work is not easy, I am sure there are sleepless nights and risks that come with their job.

How does one put their heart and life on the line for everyone else every day? To add domestic violence, sexual abuse and caring for the children after all is said and done takes a special kind of person. It is a thankless job. A job that has not been taken up by government because let’s be honest, we do need a social services ministry and mental health arms to help. We need counselling and rehabilitation programs to help offenders, survivors and everyone impacted by the selfish acts of men. Yes, mostly men.

Founded in 2005, SVSG is the only organisation in Samoa that provides shelter assistance for victims of all forms of abuse and neglect. They are committed to protecting children and their rights; hence the requirement for all SVSG personnel to comply with SVSG’s Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct. SVSG is the main service provider for survivors of gender based violence in Samoa and is vocal in advocating for women’s rights. They are the voice of the voiceless and are recognised for their human rights defender work.

The vision of SVSG is that the victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse are well-supported, safe and in control of restoring their lives. SVSG seeks to protect and promote the rights of children specifically the right to be free from abuse. SVSG believes that greater awareness of the rights of children will provide civil society with the knowledge and tools to ensure these rights are upheld.

It doesn’t matter who you are or what family you come from, you will be treated with kindness. If you have been neglected, under immense stress, abused and need help to get out from your house or your children needing help, reach out to SVSG at any time. The service is free. They will try and help you at any time of the day.

They will move mountains to help you to safety. Trust me, they will come to your aid or send someone who can. Please call the free Helpline from anywhere in Samoa : 800-7874 or from overseas + 685 800-7674.

SVSG is not a business and relies on donations and kindness from the business community and organisations to do its work. They continue to fundraise to help more people. You can click on this link to donate https://givealittle.co.nz/org/svsg or contact them today as they are on social media or reach out to Lina Chang. Thank you Lina and your team for the loving work that you do. Thank you for your golden heart to help and care for those who need it the most.