Most programmes for orphans and vulnerable children focus on material support and meeting children’s physical needs. Relatively few consider the psychosocial effects on children of having HIV, caring for a sick parent, living in a household affected by HIV/AIDS or losing one or both parents.
The loss of a parent is a traumatic and stressful experience. Early intervention is vital, and we should not assume that children can always cope. They should be given plenty of opportunity to express their feelings. Different approaches to counselling for children need to be explored further.
Caregivers also need care and support. Those caring for orphans and children in households affected by HIV/AIDS have psychosocial needs too. Meeting these needs is essential to help them go on to provide the best possible care and support for orphans and affected children.
This document is one section of a six-part guide to help communities and local organizations in Africa support children orphaned and made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS. This section identifies the specific effects of stress on children who have lost a parent due to HIV/AIDS, describes the principles that should inform NGO/CBO programming decisions to mitigate this stress, and outlines a series of strategic interventions to strengthen support for orphans and vulnerable children and to meet children’s psychosocial needs. The conclusion of this document includes a list of useful resources for follow-up.
©International HIV/AIDS Alliance
