SafeHands

SafeHands works to see a world where women and girls have the information and knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Working with local partners, we develop films and communication campaigns to put vital health messages directly into the hands of women and girls to make full, free, and informed choices over their bodies and lives.

Maternity Waiting Homes have accommodation next to Health Centres with access to skilled care around the clock. Women in rural communities may live many hours from the nearest health centre and staying at Maternity Waiting Home avoids making the journey during labour.

When a friend died giving birth at home, Yemegna decided to stay at the maternity waiting home and give birth at the health centre to avoid risking her or her child’s life. With the support of her mother and experienced midwife, she gave birth to a healthy baby girl.

Film is a powerful tool for spreading health messages but showing films in rural areas where there is little or no electricity is challenging. That’s why we developed solar powered tablets that are light enough to carry in a backpack by a frontline health worker.