About
What is OFEK?
The increasing number of antisemitic violence and discrimination has resulted in the growing need for strengthening counselling, which specializes in antisemitism. The OFEK counselling centre has been responding to these needs since 2017. In 2019 OFEK was registered as an association based in Berlin and active nationwide. OFEK has a nationwide reach through individual case-specific counselling, group counselling, a nationwide hotline and new regional locations and projects in Berlin, Hesse and Baden-Württemberg.
Who can reach out to us?
We offer counselling for individuals, families, relatives and witnesses after antisemitic incidents (e.g. at school, kindergarten, in the community or neighbourhood, in social situations, in dealing with authorities…)
What do we offer?
- Counselling and support following antisemitic incidents
- Empowering group counselling – in digital format if necessary
- Legal advice in dealing with antisemitism
- Support in the search for further support and referral (e.g., anti-discrimination counselling, specific psychological support)
- Case-specific professional consulting for Jewish communities and other institutions seeking advice
A main focus of our work is the counselling of youth and families after school incidents. Also, the case-specific counselling of teachers, school administrations and educational psychology services are another main focus of our work.
Our counselling is available in German, Hebrew, Russian. or English.
How do we work?
- We follow the wishes, needs and requirements of our clients
- Our work principles are partiality and solidarity with those affected
- Counselling is free of charge, confidential and, upon request, anonymous
- We work independently from governmental facilities and consult in all cases, regardless of the relevance under criminal law
- We encourage our clients and direct them to the available resources
- Together, we develop options for action
- We also consider previous and/or (family-) biographical experiences with antisemitic discrimination
Other measures
- Coaching for children, youth and families experiencing discrimination
- Coaching, consulting and training for schools and other educational institutions
- Support in organisational development and crisis management
- On request: case-specific public relations work and process support
