Awareness

TOLLYGUNGE WOMEN IN NEED

Awareness

Lack of knowledge, prejudices, superstitions, negative attitude and wrong practices on various social issues are the most important reasons for obstructing the process of development of Community. The first and overriding priorities for the promotion of sustainable development are socio-economic development and poverty eradication through Awareness and Training programmes.

In order to improve the knowledge, behaviours and practices of the Community, TWIN regularly organizes Awareness and Training programmes on various issues. These programmes are conducted by TWIN’S own social workers as well as in association with other organizations specialized in different fields.

These are some topics of the awareness programmes:
  • Breast-feeding
  • Superstitions
  • Immunization
  • Pre- and post-natal care
  • Adult literacy
  • Child care
  • Importance of Education
  • Hygiene
  • Family planning
  • Male involvement
  • Viral fever and HIV/AIDS
  • Pollution
  • Micro-saving and self-help groups
  • Medical bill
  • Feminine anatomy and menstruation
Achievements
Before intervention of TWIN the women were neglected by their husbands and in-laws and they did not have any decision making power. Now they have become gradually empowered and have taken a significant role in decision making process with regard to their children’s education, health and other important issues along with their male counterparts and other members in the family.

Awareness and sensitization campaigns also allowed positive behavioural changes within community on:

  • child care
  • reproductive health
  • hygiene and sanitation
  • school enrollment aspects
  • HIV/AIDS issues
Special Achievement in Diamond Harbour
Awareness campaigns are a great success in this area. Previously, it was unlikely that the sex workers would want to talk about their work and their problems. Now, they react very positively to the awareness sessions. Instead of being rejected or judged, they find people willing to listen and give advice. They too, are coming forward to interact in the awareness sessions.