For a survivor of gender-based violence (GBV), the first person they disclose their experience to can significantly shape their path to healing. Often, this first point of contact is a healthcare provider. The sensitivity, compassion, and knowledge demonstrated by that provider can make the difference between a survivor feeling believed and supported, or further traumatized and isolated. At GVRC, we recognize the pivotal role of healthcare professionals and are dedicated to equipping them with the skills to offer a truly trauma-informed response.
Trauma from GBV is not just about physical injuries; it sears into a survivor’s emotional and psychological well-being. It can manifest in myriad ways: anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), flashbacks, difficulty trusting others, and a shattered sense of self. Understanding that these are normal reactions to abnormal events is the first step for any healthcare provider. A trauma-informed approach acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery.
Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Care
GVRC’s training for healthcare providers is grounded in the core principles of trauma-informed care:
- Safety: Ensuring physical and emotional safety for the survivor throughout their interaction with the healthcare system. This includes a welcoming, private environment and clear communication about what to expect.
- Trustworthiness and Transparency: Building trust through clear communication, honesty, and consistency. Explaining all procedures and respecting the survivor’s pace.
- Choice: Offering survivors meaningful choices regarding their care, treatment options, and the reporting process. Restoring a sense of control is paramount.
- Collaboration and Mutuality: Partnering with survivors in their care, recognizing their strengths, and leveling power differences.
- Empowerment, Voice, and Validation: Validating their experiences, listening without judgment, and focusing on building their strengths and resilience.
Key Components of GVRC’s Healthcare Provider Training
Our comprehensive training programs cover a range of essential skills and knowledge areas:
- Identifying Signs of GBV: Often, survivors may not explicitly disclose violence. Training helps providers recognize subtle physical and emotional cues, and how to ask sensitive, appropriate questions.
- Providing Compassionate, Non-Judgmental Care: Emphasizing empathy, active listening, and validating the survivor’s feelings. Avoiding victim-blaming language or attitudes is critical.
- Clinical Management and Forensic Evidence Collection: Providing up-to-date knowledge on the medical management of injuries, STI/HIV prevention (including Post-Exposure Prophylaxis – PEP), emergency contraception, and the correct procedures for collecting forensic evidence (if the survivor consents and wishes to pursue legal action), ensuring the chain of custody is maintained.
- Understanding Legal Frameworks and Referral Pathways: Educating providers on the relevant laws (e.g., the Sexual Offences Act in Kenya), mandatory reporting requirements (where applicable, especially concerning children), and how to connect survivors with legal aid, psychosocial support, shelters, and other essential services like those offered by GVRC.
- Provider Self-Care: Working with trauma survivors can be emotionally taxing. Our training also addresses vicarious trauma and burnout, equipping providers with strategies for self-care and resilience.
The Ripple Effect: Benefits of Trained Healthcare Professionals
When healthcare providers are trained in trauma-informed GBV response, the benefits are manifold:
- Increased Survivor Trust: Survivors are more likely to disclose violence and seek ongoing help.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Timely and appropriate medical care reduces long-term physical and psychological health consequences.
- Better Evidence for Justice: Accurate and sensitive forensic evidence collection can strengthen legal cases, should the survivor choose that path.
- Reduced Re-traumatization: A sensitive approach prevents further harm to the survivor during their interaction with the healthcare system.
GVRC is steadfast in its commitment to building the capacity of the healthcare sector to respond effectively and compassionately to GBV. We urge continued investment and support for such training initiatives. By equipping our healthcare heroes with these vital skills, we strengthen the safety net for survivors and take a significant step towards a Kenya where every survivor receives the care and respect they deserve.
