SUPPORT

Since its creation, First Step Cambodia has been providing therapeutic and social work services to child survivors of sexual abuse. With an annual caseload of over 100 children, we see more and more cases reaching the surface and children being correctly referred to us.

Therapeutic Support at First Step Cambodia

Our social workers provide therapeutic support to child survivors of abuse and children exhibiting harmful sexual behaviors for up to 24 months, focusing on trauma recovery and fostering safe home environments. Utilizing innovative approaches such as art and play therapy, we empower children to express themselves more effectively, facilitating deeper healing from their traumatic experiences. We enhance family involvement and access to education and healthcare. As Cambodia’s only specialized provider for boys, we also support children with diverse SOGIESC and children with disabilities, offering tailored care to those aged 5 to 17.

Today, the majority of referrals come from our NGO partners, whose staff work directly with children. We are grateful for their dedication and collaboration, which strengthens our collective impact in protecting vulnerable children and ensuring they receive the specialized care they need.

Assessment and Care Plan

Upon receiving notice of, or independently detecting, a potential case of child sexual abuse or sexually harmful behavior, our social workers conduct a thorough assessment of the child's current situation, personal history, family and home life, as well as their physical and emotional state.

This results in the development of a customized care plan that addresses seven thematic areas: the child's emotional health, physical health issues, shelter (safety) issues, behavioral issues, relationship issues, education, and legal needs.

Applying the socio-ecological model, the social worker regularly visits the child's community and home. He/she identifies the child's primary caregiver (supporter) and the family member who bears responsibility over the child which, in most cases, is the mother (family). Playing a key role in the life and well-being of the child, supporters and family become closely involved in providing appropriate support and care. To achieve this, a separate plan is developed to identify gaps in knowledge and capacity, and to determine further if social work services are required.

The Socio-Ecological Model - First Step Cambodia

Customized Support

A child may experience a range of challenges when we start our first sessions. Often, they are facing physical, behavioral and mental problems such as trauma, anxiety attacks and even injuries. More often than not, poverty-related and domestic issues such as alcohol abuse create an even more challenging context for children's recovery.

Through regular therapeutic sessions and home visits, our social workers use children's personal strengths to assist in finding solutions and ways to deal with the daily challenges. During these sessions, the child develops useful problem-solving skills and learns how to manage and release negative emotions. Children learn about age-appropriate sexual behavior and how to protect themselves from abuse.

Research into gender differences inform our approach to supporting boys and girls in the most effective manner.

Social Work Support

The therapeutic needs of children are met through a combination of referrals to specialized partner organizations (for example, health checkups at the Angkor Hospital for Children), available support from the NGO that is already working with the child, and the use of our client assistance fund to fill the remaining gaps. Our services include but are not limited to; access to health care, education and vocational training, safe spaces and alternative care solutions, sports, nutrition, transportation costs and assistance in attending court sessions.

Working with the family and supporters, our social workers identify the essential changes needed in order to create a safe and supportive home environment for the child. We increase families' knowledge related to child abuse, and then build their capacity in caring for children and providing emotional support. We provide access to health care, income generation, vocational training and legal advice.

Exit Plan

Slowly, we guide the child back to school and help to rebuild self-confidence and reconnect with friends, while improving the child's home environment together with the child's family and supporters.

Every three months, we review the progress made and adapt the care plans where necessary. On average, a child receives our support for 24 months before we can slowly start reducing our active involvement. In general, children return to school, find the confidence to reconnect and play with their peers, and rediscover their dreams and aspirations. Ideally, they feel they are supported by their environment and know what they can do to protect themselves in the future.

Success Story

First Step Cambodia's Direct Support program has achieved significant success in helping child survivors of sexual abuse and children exhibiting harmful sexual behaviors. By addressing their complex needs through a comprehensive approach, FSC empowers young lives to recover and reintegrate into safe environments. The program's impact is reflected in transformative stories of resilience and healing, underscoring FSC's vital role in Cambodia's child protection efforts.