safeplaceinternationalsl.com

ACTIVITY REPORT SEPTEMBER 2023-MAY 2024

Executive Summary

This activity report provides a detailed overview of the work and accomplishment of Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network for the month of September 2023-May 2024. The report highlighted the numerous activities, impact, and achievements we have made over the past months. It serves to demonstrate our commitment to our mission and to showcase the difference we have made in the communities we serve. With an accurate information and data, this report aims to inform stakeholders and supporters about the work we have been engaged in, and to promote transparency and accountability.

IMG-20240212-WA0023
Executive Director and Founder Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network

Background

The challenges of mental health issues, drug abuse, and lack of self-empowerment among young people are significant and multidimensional. According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety are some of the leading mental health disorders affecting young people, and this is a concern worldwide. The situation is compounded by drug abuse, which is prevalent among young people, and research shows that the incidence of substance use disorder is on the rise. However, it is also likely that these challenges make the youth more vulnerable and less likely to self-empowerment.
This organization functions as a body that fights against discrimination of youths who suffers from mental health challenges, paying more attention to drug addicts. it provides ways and means to prevent drug addiction, illicit children, and youths’ activities, that disturbs them mentally and physically.

The central focus of this organization is to create a safe space for these youths to freely and fearlessly without prejudice speak out for help.it further creates a platform where youths and children can speak their minds without being judged, harassed, or condemned.
It also serves as a tower of hope where these youths can regain their confidence and self- esteem, to enhance them for a brighter future.

Overview of Activities by safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network

This Aspect of the report will painstakingly analyse activities undertaken by Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network from the month of September to December 2023, starting from the outreaches, Seminar and trainings done by the executive members of Safe Place. The aim of these activities was to educate and raise awareness about the issues surrounding drug abuse and mental health, as well as provide support and resources to those affected. These outreach programs further aimed to provide the report highlights the key events, outcomes, challenges, and recommendations for future Activities.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS

TENGBEH TOWN COMMUNITY

On the 15 October 2023, the executive members of safe place International visited residents of a slum community at Tengbeh Town commonly called Baghdad, we conducted an outreach program to raise awareness on Drug abuse and mental health, the outreach covered a wide range of topics around drug abuse and mental health. The program also captured informative sessions, distribution of educational materials, and interactive discussions with community members. The program was well attended by approximately over 100 participants.

IMG-20240407-WA0022

Cross section of participants at the Tengbeh Town Community (Baghdad) and members of the Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network.

An interactive session with the participants at the Tengbeh Town Community.

ABERDEEN COMMUNITY

On the 17 October the safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network, conducted another outreach at the Crab Town community Aberdeen. Targeting over 200 Youths from three different ghettos in that vicinity, the program incorporated interactive sessions giving Participants the opportunity to speak on issue surrounding their welfare and Sanity.
The major focus was on reaching out to vulnerable populations, such as homeless youths and marginalized groups. The message was well disseminated to well over 200 youths in three different Ghettos in that Community.

Participants at the crab town (Crab Town 1) community affirming their commitment towards the fight against Kush and other harmful substances. The engagement was fun and interactive.

OUTCOME OF THE OUTREACH PROGRAMS

• we provided counselling and support to over 300 Youths, distributed informational materials on drug abuse prevention and mental health.

• We further identified needs and challenges faced by the community.

CHALLENGES

• Limited resources for providing ongoing support and follow-up.
• Limited number of staff and volunteers due to limited funding.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE OUTREACHS

• Establish partnerships with local healthcare providers to ensure ongoing support.
• Recruit volunteers with patience and proficiency to assist in diverse Communities.
• Doing an active follow up with individuals who require ongoing support.

Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network Seminar Held on the 29th of November 2023.

On the 29 November 2023, Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network Organized a seminar on Drug Abuse and Mental Health, at the Freetown City Council Auditorium, featuring youths from different communities and institutions of learning in the western area this seminar was organized in partnership with the Ministry of western urban. The major focus was on the prevention of drug abuse and the promotion of mental well-being. The seminar included presentations from speakers, interactive activities, and open discussions. Over 500 participants took part in the seminar. The Seminar featured speakers from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Ministry of Western Urban, Lawyers, Mental health experts etc.

406315752_122110949510119156_7952981157292883534_n

Flyer of the seminar held at the city Auditorium on the 29 November 2023.

This seminar gathered youths across Freetown, they clearly understood the dangers of drug
abuse and how mental health issues have affected a good number of Sierra Leoneans.

Through this seminar a good number of youths were impacted positively, and they saw the need to join safe Place in the fight against drug abuse.

IMG-20240212-WA0046

The Minister of Western Urban at the seminar.

The Minister in his statement commended the members of the safe place International Youth Advocacy Network for the laudable venture and promised his relentless support towards the eradication of drug abuse in Sierra Leone. he pinpointed some of the causes of drug abuse and misuse and how they can be tackled. The Minister ended by encouraging the youths to work with the Government and safe Place International in eradicating this menace.

A Cross Section of the Seminar

Outcome of the Seminar

1. Provided mentorship for over 400 youths within Freetown Municipality.
2. Educated youths on the dangers of drug abuse and mental health.
3. Collected a workable data to enable the Organization to access these youths for proper follow ups and counselling.

Limitations

1. Limited funding
2. Limited partnership with donor partners.

Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network Staff Training.

On the 1 December, 2023. The Executive Director Organized a staff training for the executive members of the Organization on Psychosocial and Psycho-spiritual development, with Dr Biko Sankofa who served as the life Coach during the training.
The aim of the training was to provide staff members with the foundation knowledge in Psychosocial and psycho-spiritual development to be able to counsel individuals with mild, moderate or severe intellectual disabilities as well as professional guidance to follow. The training was held for a whole day with comprehensive training program aiming to equip the learner with the essential knowledge on the aforesaid subject matter in providing support and care to individuals with intellectual disabilities.


He enlightened staff members on the need of understanding oneself and how nature resonates with our inner desires. He further stated that every situation in a person’s life comes with acceptance, even victimhood starts with the individual.


The session was interactive, and it ended up with certification of staff members.

401444412_122112377678119156_5379623334905584574_n

Outcome of the Training

1. Capacitated staff members of SPIYAN to be able to counsel individuals on mental health issues.
2. Created bond amongst members of Staff thereby enhancing teamwork.
3. Provided members of Staff with the required knowledge to win the fight against mental health complications.

Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network Empowerment Workshop and Donation at the Crab Town Community.

On the 23 December, 2023, the Organization came up with a day workshop and donation Program at the Crab Town Community Aberdeen. This program was aimed at honing the youths and providing food stuff for them during the holiday period.
The purpose of the training and the donation for Drug Abusers Program is to empower and reform drug abusers, in their journey towards recovery and rehabilitation. This training provided them with meaningful education opportunities. The Donations received will be used for their maintenance and upkeep during the holidays.

The pervasive nature of drug has reached an all-time high. Drug abuse is a growing concern in demographics across Sierra Leone presenting an unprecedented burden to health services and associated costs. As an organization we saw the need to be always proactive in curbing this menace in Sierra Leone.

413957181_122118254390119156_8572903118030253735_n

Outcome of the Training

1. The training provided a rehabilitation opportunity for Youths at the Crab Town Community.
2. The training Provided the participants the opportunity to highlights some of the factors pushing them to drug abuse.
3. Through the training a lot of youths volunteered to work with safe place as change agents.

Limitations

1. Lack of sufficient personnel militated against us
2. Poor funding limited the number of materials provided and donations made.

Meet and Greet with Proposed Volunteers of Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network

On the 3 February, 2024, the Executive members of the Organisation made a point of duty to meet with the supposed volunteers and talk to the before the official training and incorporation Ceremony, that will guarantee their spaces in the Organization. This meeting was held at Chicken, Former President Siaka Steven Lounge. The meeting started up with a short statement by the executive Director and was climaxed with a short talk from the Deputy Executive Director and other Members of Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network.
The purpose of the meeting was to enlighten the proposed Volunteers on the aims and objectives of the Organization, familiarize with them and get to understand what is expected of them as volunteers.

TRAINING FOR THE VOLUNTEERS AT SAFE PLACE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY NETWORK.

The safe place International Youth Advocacy Network, on the 16 March, 2024,
conducted a day training program for over 30 of its volunteers, aimed at empowering volunteers with required knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for mental health and drug abuse issues. The program focused on equipping participants with the tools to support vulnerable populations, raise awareness, and influencing policy changes.

The Topics Where as Follows

Understanding Mental Health and Drug Abuse – By Mrs Nadia Muna Haidar Kamara Trained Psychologist, Consular Officer Consulate of Sweden.
Advocacy Skills Development (Communication and Public Speaking) – By Graham Ramsey.
Practical Application and Networking (Media engagement) -Ibrahim Bangura AMNET.
Organisation Financial Control – By Madam Elizabeth Kamara

 

Objective of the Training
• To provide volunteers with a comprehensive understanding of mental health and drug abuse, including causes, effects, and stigma.
• To develop practical advocacy skills, such as public speaking, community organizing, and media engagements.
• To share resources and strategies for effective advocacy and support for affected individuals.
• To enhance a network of informed advocates who can collaborate on future initiatives.

 

Outcome of the Training
• Volunteers gained a deeper understanding of mental health issues and the complexities of drug abuse.
• Participants acquired practical skills in communication, community organizing, and media engagement.
• Attendees received a toolkit of resources, including contact information for mental health professionals, advocacy templates, and campaign guides.

Conclusion.
The training program was successful, meeting its objectives and equipping volunteers with the necessary tools to advocate for mental health and drug abuse issues effectively. The participants expressed enthusiasm and readiness to apply their new skills in their communities, furthering the mission of Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network.

SAFE PLACE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY NETWORK MARCH AGAINST KUSH AND OTHER HARMFUL DRUGS IN SIERRA LEONE

On the April 20, 2024, Safe place International Youth Advocacy Network organized a Campaign march in Freetown, Sierra Leone, to raise awareness about the dangers of Kush and other harmful drugs, this was done in complimenting the government’s effort in tackling the menace. The event aimed to educate the public, advocate for policy changes, and support affected communities.

Objectives of the March.
1. Inform the public about the risks associated with Kush and harmful drugs.
2. Encourage community involvement in combating drug abuse.
3. Push for stricter regulations and support services for addiction.

Pre-March Activities
Community Outreach:
Engaged local leaders and organizations to garner support.

Distributed informational flyers and posters in key areas.

Targeted addicts at the Aberdeen Community.

Route and Participation.
The march commenced at Youyi Building, a central landmark in the western part of Freetown, and concluded at the Aberdeen beach roundabout. This march gathered around 1,500 participants including youths from different communities in Freetown. Pupils from various Schools, local leaders, and NGO.

 

Key events During the March:
• Notable Figures, including health officials, Community leaders, pupils and former addicts, shared their experiences and insights.
• Local Artistes Performed songs and skits highlighting the consequences of drug abuse.
• Distribution of educational materials and provision of support services along the route.

 

Key Messages:
1. Emphasize the severe health consequences of Kush and other drugs, including mental health issues and physical deterioration.
2. Highlighted how drug abuse affects not just individuals but entire communities, leading to increased crime and social services.
3. Urged the government to implement stricter regulations on drug sales and provide more rehabilitation services.

Outcomes:
• The media coverage amplified the message, thereby reaching a broader audience.
• Post-march surveys indicated a heightened awareness of drug-related issues among participants.
• After the campaign Safe Place started a media campaign on having stricter anti-drug laws and policies.

POST-MARCH SURVEY IN THE ABERDEEN COMMUNITY ON KUSH AWARENESS AND PREVENTION.

This report presents the findings of a quantitative survey conducted in the Aberdeen community to assess the level of awareness the Campaign Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network Organized on Kush and other Harmful drugs on April 20, 2024.
Survey Objectives:
1. To measure the level of awareness regarding the dangers of Kush and other Harmful drugs.
2. Evaluate the impact of the campaign march on community knowledge and perceptions.
3. Identify areas requiring further awareness and intervention efforts.

Methodology
Survey period: May 3-4, 2024.
Sample size: 150 respondents.
Survey Method: Structured questionnaires administered through face-face interviews.

Demographics of Respondents

During our survey we interviewed 83 male respondents making a total of 55% of the total population, and 67 female respondents making a total of 45% of the total population.

Age Groups: our field officers interacted with 25% of people within the ages of 18-25, 35% with 26-35, 25% with 36-50 and just 10% of people within 51 and above.

Occupation: Students 30%, Employed 25%, Unemployed 35%, others 10%.

Key findings
1. Awareness of Kush and Effects.

When our officer asked the question if they have heard about Kush, 65% percent stated yes and 35 stated No%.

When respondents were asked about the awareness of the harmful effects of Kush, 90 people making an average 60% confirmed that they are aware whilst 60 people making an average of 40% were not on the affirmative.
2. Sources of Information

When the respondents were asked if the March Campaign was their source of information 75 respondents averaging about 50% of the total sampled population said yes, whilst another 75% averaging about 50% of the total population said no.

45 respondents averaging about 30% affirmed that, they got the information through the media, whilst 105 people averaging about 70% denied.

105 Respondents averaging about 70% said yes, their major source is through safe Place’s Community outreach programs. Whilst 45 respondents averaging 30% said no.

3. Perceived Dangers of Kush

60% of the respondents stated yes, that, Kush is posing serious threat to the physical and mental wellbeing of youths, whilst 40% stated no.

50% percent agreed that Kush causes addiction and 50% disagreed.

4. Suggested Intervention.

65% of the total population stated that yes, advocacy and educational will be a timely intervention to win this fight. Whilst 35% disagreed with the said assertion.

50% of the population supported the enactment and enforcement of stronger policies, whilst 50% disagreed.

Conclusion
The survey results indicate a significant increase in awareness about Kush and its dangers following the campaign march. However, there are still gaps in knowledge and areas needing continued education and intervention efforts. Most respondents showed a willingness to engage in future advocacy, highlighting the importance of sustained community engagement.

Financial Report

Analytic Financial Report

Within these periods Safe Place as an Organization Spent NLe 99,000 on Accomplishing these programs and the analytic report is as follows: The Organization spent NLe5,000 on Outreach programs which covers Transportation for staff members and purchases of outreach materials.
Over NLe 66,000 was spent on the Seminar which covered breakfast, Lunch, purchases of seminar materials, Transportation Refunds which is inclusive of bus rentals, Payments of Staff etc.
The Staff training was less costly, the organization just spent NLe 2,000 on Preparation of food, printing of materials and transport refunds.
The organization spent NLe 10,000 on the Training and donation for the purchases of donation items, training materials, media, and Transportation refunds for members of staff. Finally, the organization spent NLe 4,000 for the purchase of food for refreshment and transportation refunds during the meet and greet and Training.
12 thousand was spent on the Campaign March and other outreach programs form April 2024-May 2024.

Conclusion
This activity report covers programs undertaken by the Organization over the past months since its inception. It is a comprehensive report put together by staff members of Safe Place International Youth Advocacy Network. It also looked at financial report of the organization over the past months. It captures memorable moments shared by members and participants in their journey of transforming Sierra Leone.