Two children at the UNICEF-supported children’s centre at Neuheun in Greater Aceh.
UNICEF UK/2006/Josh Estey

Children enjoying making music at the children’s centre.
UNICEF UK/2006/Josh Estey

Day one

Visit to the children’s centre at Neuheun

Next Björk visited the UNICEF-supported children’s centre at Neuheun in Greater Aceh. Two thousand people are living in temporary homes at a barracks-type camp here, including 400 children.

Rebuilding homes in Aceh is well underway but it is a slow process so many people still live in temporary accommodation while waiting for new homes to be built by the Government. These cramped conditions are difficult for families to live in, especially as many people are also coming to terms with the loss of family members.

UNICEF believes that it is vital that children are able to continue education and to have a safe place to play and just be children, away from the stresses of home. This centre provides a much needed breathing-space for parents and children alike.

UNICEF is involved in providing support to the camp, including psycho-social care to the children to help them come to terms with their situation. The children enjoy many different activities including music, sport and drawing.