Calcutta Rescue has long recognized that education is not limited to traditional subjects such as mathematics and Bengali or Hindi, but also to more advanced subjects. This is why social work is part of our education program. Here, both the children in the Children Empowerment project and the adults, especially the women, in the Women Empowerment project are supported. The focus is on giving every child and young person the tools they need to make decisions for themselves and to protect themselves from potential dangers or violence. Among other things, the pupils learn when they have reached their personal limits and are dependent on external help.
Children empowerment
Pupils should be empowered to determine their own school career so that they can master new challenges with intrinsic motivation and courage. We firmly believe that the experience of being able to shape their own lives helps pupils to grow into active, responsible and socially competent members of our society.
In the Eco Club, the children learn how important a balanced diet is and how they can avoid plastic themselves. At the same time, the younger schoolchildren are given age-appropriate information in the touch workshops. They are also taught the word "no" for unsafe touching.
Our students feel a sense of belonging to Calcutta Rescue, they are valued and are able to achieve their learning goals. Our teachers and educators have worked purposefully. Among other things, they have introduced an age-appropriate ritualized greeting method in the classroom. This means that every child can decide for themselves how they would like to be greeted each day. Would they prefer a hug, a handshake, a high five or a fist bump?
A detailed list of the program can be found here.
Women empowerment
The prevention of violence at Calcutta Rescue has two pillars. On the one hand, awareness-raising is aimed at Calcutta Rescue employees in order to recognize gender-based violence. On the other hand, training is provided for caregivers to ensure that those affected by gender-based violence receive the best possible support.
Counseling sessions for women affected by gender-based violence take place twice a week at the Talapark Clinic. The GBV counselor also holds a monthly session at the other clinics to raise awareness of gender-based violence among men and women. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women under the motto "Orange the World: No to Violence against Women" was also celebrated at Calcutta Rescue.
Calcutta Rescue's main goal is to empower those affected by gender-based violence in a variety of ways to lead a life free of violence.
Reports on the topic of social work
We regularly report on our social education projects in our newsletter. Read the latest reports from our team on site here.