France Travail at the Maison des Femmes
On Tuesday 5 May, France Travail held its first drop-in session at the Maison des Femmes in Marigot. The scheme aims to support women who have been victims of violence in making a gradual return to work.
On 29 March, an agreement was signed between France Travail and the Maison des Femmes, the first of its kind in the region. As part of this partnership, on the first Monday of every month, occupational psychologist Chantal Hyman will meet with service users who wish to return to work. “Our aim is to reintegrate these women into the world of work. To do this, we take into account the obstacles they may face and the different types of violence they may have experienced,” explains the professional. Originally from Saint-Martin and employed at France Travail since 2019, Chantal Hyman is well acquainted with local realities. Her work forms part of a comprehensive support programme for women who are victims of violence. Up front, beneficiaries receive psychological support to help them rebuild their lives.
A gateway to the future
The first beneficiary, Marianne*, explains her expectations of this new scheme. “I think an occupational psychologist has a much broader perspective and an understanding of the situation I’ve found myself in. She’s not someone who’s going to judge me,” she says. Beyond access to employment, a genuine rebirth is taking place. “I’m working on exploring her journey, finding links between what she wants to do and her personal history,” explains the psychologist. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to bringing employment services closer to the most vulnerable groups. For this launch, nine women will receive support in May.
*Marianne: the name has been changed to protect this person’s anonymity
