Cambodia mission for Doncaster woman
A Doncaster woman is preparing to jet off to Cambodia to dedicate a year to working with sexually trafficked children.
Trained counsellor Lynne Barnett, aged 51, who
set up Sanctuary Therapy in Doncaster, is set to use her skills to help
victims in Cambodia.
She said: “These young
individuals, who are sexually exploited and often imprisoned, need love
and support to enable the healing process.
“Currently there is no service available for those who have suffered atrocities, historical or recent.
“Generations
are affected by the trauma of war. For this reason I will also
facilitate group activities to enhance self esteem, confidence, health
and relationships.”
Lynne first journeyed to the
Killing Fields of the Cambodian genocide almost a decade ago to work
with children as young as six who had been abused, traumatised and
trafficked into sexual slavery.
And ever since she has taken weeks of holiday each year to continue her work.
“This
is no adult gap year or poverty tourism – I am a self-employed
counsellor taking a full year to help many more children, young people
and families living in absolute poverty.
“Tourists see the beauty of the Cambodian landscape, but being there always activates a rollercoaster of emotion in me.
“From
the distress I feel when confronted by the lack of mental health care
provision – individuals tethered by family under huts to keep them safe –
to feeling totally inspired by the stoic attitude and resourcefulness
of those living in absolute poverty.
“The injustice, oppression and poverty in this ‘forgotten’ country stunts progress and stifles potential.
“I
am grateful beyond words to everyone who has supported me over the
years, enabling me to go and serve and to the lovely ladies of my local
church who have knitted hundreds of teddies to give to children who have
nothing else to call their own.”
n See Lynne’s blog at http://lbsanctuarycambodia.wordpress.com/
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