Daria, a social worker at one of the barrier-free gynaecological clinics in Dnipro, dedicates her days to supporting women and girls from vulnerable groups. Her role goes beyond accompanying patients to the gynaecologist.
With compassion and care, Daria provides psychological support, social assistance, referrals to essential services, and access to resources that help women rebuild their lives and improve their well-being.
“My job is to accompany women to the gynaecologist. We provide referrals, social and psychological support, and help them access the services they need. It’s important that doctors treat women from vulnerable groups with respect and empathy,” Daria shares.
In nine regions of Ukraine, 13 barrier-free gynaecological clinics offer a full range of case management services to women in the most vulnerable situations, including survivors of domestic and gender-based violence, women with disabilities, older women, internally displaced persons, and members of key communities.
These services, supported by the European Union, are part of a national network of 154 facilities established with the assistance of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine, and in partnership with local organizations.
Case management services ensure that women seeking help gain access to high-quality care in a safe, confidential, and welcoming environment that upholds their dignity and individuality.
“Case managers gave me a ‘second birthday.’ When someone literally takes your hand and walks you to the doctor, then supports you at every stage afterward, solving various challenges—it’s invaluable help for someone in our situation,” shares Svitlana, a clinic patient.
By working within these barrier-free cabinets, social workers help women overcome stigma, fear, and the obstacles they often face when seeking specialized medical care.
Thanks to this inclusive approach, every woman receives not only medical assistance and psychological support but also experiences a sense of value, dignity, and protection.