Prefer Jewish News on Google
SafeHeart sets up ‘Safe Space’ at Re’im for Nova survivors and bereaved families
Trauma-care NGO offers on-site therapy and emotional support at two-year commemoration of 7 October
Israeli trauma NGO SafeHeart has established a “Safe Space” at Re’im, the site of the Nova music festival massacre, to support survivors and bereaved families during this week’s two-year memorial events.
Run in partnership with the Ministry of Health, National Insurance Institute, and Trauma Coalition, the initiative provided a therapeutic refuge for those attending the ceremonies, many of whom continue to live with the psychological wounds of the 7 October 2023 attack.
Efrat Atun, SafeHeart’s CEO, said:“This is the second year we’ve established a Safe Space at Re’im… to be an anchor for those who need it, offering a listening ear and a kind heart on this difficult day of remembrance.
“Although two years have passed since 7 October, time feels frozen. The trauma is still alive every day, and the hostages remain in Gaza.
“At SafeHeart, together with all the civil organisations, we are here — united for the families and survivors. You are not alone.”
Jenny Sividia, a Nova survivor and sister of the late Shlomi Savidia, helped lead the support activities.
“Bereaved families and survivors attend, and exposure to the stories can trigger emotional responses,” she said. “Even visitors with no personal connection can become overwhelmed simply by being exposed to the families and their stories. They need a listening ear and professional assistance to help calm and restore balance.”
Psychologist Dr Nir Soffer Dudek, who has volunteered with SafeHeart since the attacks, added:
“Being here at Re’im today with the families and survivors is part of a much longer process — one that began two years ago and will continue for twenty years ahead.”
Founded on 7 October, 2023, by Israeli trauma therapists, SafeHeart has delivered more than 40,000 hours of free therapy to over 1,000 survivors and relatives — the largest initiative of its kind in Israel.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
