The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has expanded psychosocial support services for survivors and families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, while making counselling and grief support available to any member of the public in need.
In a video update on Tuesday morning, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud stated that the ministry has been providing direct support since Sunday through its network of social workers in Regions One and Two, with officers conducting home visits and working within affected communities.
The support has now been expanded through toll-free hotlines to the Ministry of Human Service and Social Security, with counselling and therapy hubs across the regions.
“We have expanded our direct support to families and survivors. We have been working with families directly through our social work network, conducting home visits and going into communities,” Minister Persaud said.
The minister encouraged persons to visit the ministry’s Facebook page for the locations of the counselling hubs and the toll-free hotline numbers, which are available daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. The services are accessible by both phone calls and messages.
She stressed that the support is not limited to those directly impacted by the MV Barima tragedy.
“This is not only for families and survivors directly affected by the MV Barima tragedy. This is for anyone who needs comfort and support,” she stated.
According to Minister Persaud, the ministry is also assisting families with other immediate needs, including transportation to hospitals, access to medication, and support for children.
The officers continue to work around the clock.
She announced that additional online counselling services will soon be introduced through psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health specialists and grief therapists, including support from international organisations and members of the Guyanese diaspora.
The initiative is being coordinated by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security with support from the Ministries of Health and Education on the ground.
Meanwhile, Minister Persaud urged anyone experiencing grief or emotional distress to seek help, assuring that the ministry will continue providing support after the initial contact.
“There is a lot of grief, a lot of anger, a lot of emotions and a lot of devastation. This is very difficult for everybody. We are working around the clock to offer all of this support,” the minister concluded.