Directory launched to enhance support to vulnerable communities

PESHAWAR: A civil society organization, Da Hawwa Lur (DHL), in collaboration with the Ombudsperson KP for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace and the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has launched the Referral Directory to bolster support services for vulnerable communities.

An event was arranged to launch the directory which is expected to streamline access to essential services.Zoona Javed, Project Coordinator at the DHL, shed light on the Referral Directory. “This directory is a vital tool in improving access to support services for women and marginalised groups,” she added.

Shawana Shah, Program Director at DHL, talked of the DHL’s psycho-legal support services and the newly established referral mechanism. “The directory will facilitate seamless referrals and access to critical support services,” she said while underscoring the practical benefits of this initiative for the community.

Khurshid Bano, CEO of DHL, talked about the significance of the directory. She said: “This directory represents a collaborative effort to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable populations.”

Amjad Marwat, the president of the bar association, said: “Such a resource is invaluable as individuals can access the services they need.” He highlighted the directory’s role in supporting transgender persons, women, and girls.Rizwan Khan, the provincial coordinator, elaborated on the referral mechanism and the critical role of various line departments.

“Active participation and cooperation from all stakeholders are crucial to the directory’s effectiveness,” he asserted, calling for collective action.Farzana, the transgender persons focal person, lauded the efforts of DHL in championing the rights of marginalized communities and praised the directory.

The event featured an interactive session, inviting participants to share suggestions and recommendations for enhancing the Referral Directory and its implementation.Saima, SHO of Tatara Police Station, said, “We are proud to be included in the Referral Directory, and we look forward to contributing to this vital network of support services.”

The event concluded with closing remarks by Ombudsperson KP for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace, Rukhshanda Naz.She commended DHL and its partners for their dedicated efforts and reaffirmed the commitment of the Ombudsperson’s office to support such initiatives.“Together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of those who need it most,” she stated, reinforcing the collaborative spirit.