Gender-based violence (GBV) is a critical public health issue with profound and lasting consequences for individuals and communities. Health systems are often the first point of contact for survivors, placing healthcare providers in a unique and vital position to not only offer care but also to play a central role in prevention. This training course is specifically designed to equip healthcare professionals, administrators, and policy makers with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a safe, supportive, and effective response to gender-based violence within their institutions.

This program will guide participants through the foundational principles of trauma-informed care, the practical skills for ethical and compassionate screening, and the development of robust referral pathways. By integrating policy development and system-wide prevention strategies, the course aims to build health systems that are not only prepared to respond to GBV but are actively engaged in preventing it. You will leave this course ready to champion a culture of safety and respect, ensuring that your health system is a beacon of hope and healing for all.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Doctors, nurses, and other clinical healthcare providers
• Hospital and clinic administrators
• Public health officers and program managers
• Social workers and mental health professionals
• Community health workers and outreach staff
• Health policy makers and legal professionals
• Emergency room and urgent care staff
• Researchers in public health and gender studies
• NGO and civil society leaders focused on health equity
• Educators in medical and nursing schools

Objectives

• Understand the diverse forms of gender-based violence and its health impacts.
• Develop skills for compassionate and ethical GBV screening and identification.
• Provide immediate, trauma-informed care to survivors of violence.
• Establish safe and confidential documentation and record-keeping procedures.
• Implement effective referral pathways to legal, social, and psychological support.
• Formulate and advocate for institutional policies that protect survivors.
• Lead prevention initiatives within health systems and communities.
• Navigate the legal and ethical complexities of responding to GBV.
• Foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment for survivors.

Course Modules

Module 1: Understanding Gender-Based Violence

• The definition and different forms of GBV.
• The link between gender inequality and violence.
• Health consequences of GBV, both immediate and long-term.
• Identifying the signs and symptoms of violence.
• The role of healthcare providers as first responders.

Module 2: Trauma-Informed and Ethical Care

• Principles of trauma-informed care for survivors.
• Building trust and ensuring confidentiality.
• Providing non-judgmental and empathetic communication.
• Conducting survivor-centered interviews and examinations.
• Best practices for documenting and reporting cases.

Module 3: Screening and Identification in Healthcare Settings

• Methods for routine and opportunistic screening for GBV.
• Creating a safe and private environment for disclosure.
• Overcoming barriers to disclosure and provider discomfort.
• Adapting screening protocols for diverse populations.
• Developing safety plans with at-risk individuals.

Module 4: Institutional Policies and Procedures

• Developing and implementing a clear institutional policy on GBV.
• Training staff on their roles and responsibilities in the response.
• Creating a standardized protocol for medical forensic examinations.
• Ensuring the availability of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and other care.
• Auditing and strengthening internal systems to support survivors.

Module 5: Referral Pathways and Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

• Building a network of trusted external partners.
• Establishing clear and accessible referral pathways.
• The importance of collaboration with law enforcement and legal aid.
• Partnering with shelters, support groups, and mental health services.
• Case management and follow-up care coordination.

Module 6: Prevention Strategies and Community Engagement

• Understanding the drivers of GBV and effective prevention models.
• Implementing primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention efforts.
• Utilizing health systems as platforms for community education.
• Engaging men and boys in prevention initiatives.
• Advocating for gender-equitable practices within the health system.

Module 7: Leadership and Sustainability

• The role of health system leadership in championing GBV prevention.
• Allocating resources for training, staffing, and services.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of GBV programs.
• Sustaining prevention efforts through a culture of accountability.
• Engaging in advocacy for systemic and policy-level change.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.