SI Hamont Achel Noord Limburg, Belgium
Intra-family violence remains a deeply rooted issue in Belgium, with 42% of women having experienced some form of intimate partner violence during their lifetime¹. Children, too, are not spared: over 50,000 cases of child abuse are reported annually¹. In response, the Soroptimists of Hamont-Achel Noord Limburg launched OTW 2024 – Set Boundaries Together in a Caring Manner, a powerful and multifaceted project that aims to break the silence around domestic violence.
Women & girls reached
2,000
Funds raised by partners
€4,915
This innovative initiative brought together educators, local authorities, healthcare providers, and the police to support both awareness and prevention. With 17 performances of the impactful Magic Theatre play “Why?”, the project reached over 1,200 children aged 5–12 across local schools. These emotionally resonant performances helped young audiences recognise signs of abuse and encouraged them to seek help, with several children courageously sharing their own stories afterward.
The educational component was equally robust: 135 teachers and school directors participated in a pedagogical study day featuring expert-led workshops and presentations. Another 32 professionals from before- and after-school care joined a dedicated follow-up session. The initiative also included an open statutory meeting that further spread awareness to over 100 community members.
Backed by a strong partnership with local organizations—including child protection agencies, schools, the police, and the municipality—the project was built on meticulous planning and a collaborative spirit. Over 1,640 volunteer hours were invested to ensure its success.
The Belgian Soroptimists demonstrated that prevention begins with education, empathy, and visibility. By fostering a safe space for dialogue and action, they not only empowered professionals and families but also gave vulnerable children the confidence to speak up. The project stands as a blueprint for how local engagement, creative expression, and sustained collaboration can protect lives and promote dignity for all.
Project achieved by
- Engaging strong multi-sector partnerships: with schools, police, and child protection services.
- Raising awareness in an accessible, sensitive way via creative and age-appropriate outreach.
- Proposing comprehensive training and community involvement.
Partner(s)
- Managing board school community of Hamont-Achel (4 primary schools, children 5 – 12 years and their teachers).
- CLB: Centrum Leerlingen begeleiding (Center student guidance).
- VK: Vertrouwenscentrum Kindermishandeling (Child Abuse Trust Center)
- Veilig huis Limburg (Safe House Limburg).
- Police HANO district
- Theatre Jahon.
- City Government Hamont-Achel.
- Own Open statutory Sorop meeting.