ABU DHABI // Art and exercise are used as therapy in a shelter in the capital for victims of human trafficking.

Ewa’a offers a safe haven for those who have been trafficked – particularly those who have been sexually exploited.

Apart from providing psychological and medical treatment, the shelter offers victims – most of whom are Asian – a routine filled with activities.

Maitha Al Mazrouei, corporate communications manager, explained why the activities were important.

“Once the victims arrive, they are usually traumatised; they don’t trust anyone, and have problems sleeping,” she said. “In order for them to feel safe, the shelter provides them with comfort to make them feel at home.”

The shelter also offers psychotherapy.

Ms Al Mazrouei, an Emirati, said rehabilitation came through activities such as sewing, cooking, language, computer training, drawing and poetry writing.

The psychologist at the shelter, Aida Nour, from Sudan, said victims were first taken through their daily schedules. Then they could choose activities they were interested in.

“From day one, we welcome the victims, show them their room and let them settle in. The following day, we introduce them to the staff at Ewa’a, the other victims and then show them around the shelter,” she said.

“Day three is when we explain to them the rules at Ewa’a and the schedule that they have to follow.”

The residents must keep their rooms clean and take part in group activities, such as exercising and cooking.

“One of their activities is cooking their own meals,” said Ms Nour. “We provide the ingredients and each victim has the freedom to cook whatever they like.

“We recommend the victims start their day with morning sports and swimming classes.”

A social worker tailors each resident’s schedule depending on their interests.

“Some like to draw, some like to sew,” said Ms Nour. “Handicrafts, drawing, crochet, computer and languages classes are also provided.”

The residents also take trips to parks and cultural locations, such as the Heritage Village and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

However, therapy is one of the most important steps in the rehabilitation process, said Ms Al Mazrouei.

“During the psychological treatment sessions, the victims all gather together in group therapy to help each other talk about their experiences. Group therapy is the most effective therapy that has been done.”

In rare cases, some of the residents undergo individual therapy.

“In certain severe conditions, such as depression, lack of appetite, a sleeping disorder, or hyperactivity, we refer them to a psychiatric specialist outside the shelter who can then prescribe medication to them,” said Ms Nour.

Ewa’a has four shelters across the country – two in the capital, one in Sharjah and one in Ras Al Khaimah. One of the shelters is solely for men.

Together, they can accommodate 150 residents.

Some stay for many months, others for a short time. They all have the option to return to their home country or to stay and start anew.

Ewa’a has sheltered 218 victims since it opened in 2009. Victims are usually referred by the police, embassies, places of worship, a telephone hotline or hospitals.

The average age of the victims ranges from 18 to 45, but they have even sheltered a five-year-old. Most come to the UAE for work but end up being exploited upon arrival.

The Ewa’a hotline is 800 7283.

ealdhaheri@thenational.ae

malshamsi@thenational.ae