Project Background: SDSF is a local NGO based in Pristina that cares for 7-10 vulnerable children at a time (particularly victims of trafficking, domestic violence and abuse), aged 0-18, in a family home environment. They can take up to 12 in an emergency. It also used to operate in Prizren but that centre has now closed. The centre advocates semi-independent living whereby the children are provided with €3 a week pocket money to spend as they wish, but they also have to comply with certain rules. They can come and go as they please. The centre has just been refurbished at a total value of €20,000 but at a cost of just €4,000 thanks to the generosity of local businesses. A social worker has legal responsibility for the children. They are supposed to stay in the shelter for six months at a time but some stay for three years. At 18 the children have to leave, but it’s difficult to find jobs. They need to find more donors for this. The centre operates with an annual budget of €130,000. It is multiethnic and people from all parts of Kosovo (plus Serbia) come to this centre in Pristina. They have partners in UNICEF, IOM, OSCE, Ministry of Social Welfare, Ministry of Justice, Kosovo Support Group (Northern Ireland) and Hope and Aid Direct. There are some questions about licenses and the centre’s contract (expires February 2009) that need to be ironed out.

• This would run along the lines of OXAB’s current work in Bulgaria and Bosnia
• Volunteers would visit the centre for around 1 month at a time.
• They would give the kids individual care and attention
• They would also help to improve their English language skills, give them advice and encouragement

Accommodation: There are plenty of hostels that people can stay in for approx €10 per night, such as Guest House Velania (based on 3 people sharing). It may be possible to find other accommodation that may be cheaper. Velania is the affluent housing district of Pristina and was very safe with plenty of international police and embassies in very close proximity.

Funding: None essential. Some fundraising in Oxford for the centre would be very welcome and should be expected of the volunteers.

Skill base of the volunteer required: None. It would be useful to have some social work or counselling experience but this is not essential.

Development and future opportunities: Work with similar shelters in other parts of Kosovo; consider providing funding for expansion if this is required in the future (not required at present).

Possible Partnerships: KEEN, UNICEF Oxford

Possible security and safety concerns: Low since the centre takes only low-risk children and Pristina is safe and secure.

Note: SDSF’s contract is up for renewal in February, so contact will be made with the organisation in order to assess whether the project is still feasible.

Last updated: April 26th, 2009