Services for Women

SERVICES OFFERED BY APNA HAQ

The workers aim to be supportive, but encourage independent skills - the following services are offered.

Religious and Cultural. Awareness exists of the different religions and cultures within the Asian community which clients come from.

Key worker system. The key worker is the worker dealing with all emotional and practical matters concerning the client. The key worker is someone that the client can talk to about any worries or concerns. Help and support will be provided with regards to housing, careers, welfare benefits, education, health and social contact in order to make friends to avoid isolation.

Emotional and Mental. One to one emotional support is offered to clients by their key worker. If more specialist counseling is necessary, we will put the client in touch with the appropriate agency, if there is one. Otherwise Apna Haq will work with agencies to ensure that the services they are delivering can be accessed by Asian women.

Money. The clients are assisted to ensure that they claim all the benefit due to them. If assistance is needed by a client to avoid debt, a budget plan is worked out with theor key worker.

Care orders. Apna Haq works with Social Services to enable women to look after and protect their children.

Life skills. It is considered to be very important that whilst we offer support and assistance, that skills leading to independence are encouraged. Clients are encouraged to make links with other organisations and groups in the community, so that a network of support is build up to encourage a personal network of support and use of resources in the community.

Moving strategy. Systematic work is undertaken if a client is moving into a new home, to ensure a successful settling-in into their new homes. This is done through making applications for re-housing, viewing properties and claiming any grants that may be available. Identifying the practicalities of moving, i.e. electric, gas, GP, etc. Assistance is given with furnishing the new home.

Employment. Expert advice is sought to help clients gain employment. They are given advice in following through any aspirations that they may have with a career or education.

Outings and Holidays. These are organized with the participation of the women. (Weekly outings to the cinema or events happening in the community will be arranged by the staff, as well as day trips to other places).

Support Group. Weekly sessions are offered for women to get together and share experiences, learn new skills and gain confidences.