Bridgetown, Barbados – November 29, 2024: Eighteen healthcare professionals from Barbados, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Saint. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines successfully completed the Comprehensive Clinical Management of Rape (CMR) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Training, held from November 25-29, 2024 at the Blue Horizon Hotel. Supported by the #BuildBackEqual project, this transformative programme provided participants with essential skills and strategies to offer survivor-centered care in cases of sexual violence, gender-based violence (GBV), and IPV.

The interactive workshop, facilitated by UNFPA experts Dr. Rosilawati ‘Rossy’ Anggraini and Dr. Michael Atim, focused on equipping healthcare professionals with both technical and interpersonal skills to respond effectively to survivors. A key feature of the training included hands-on sessions that introduced participants to practical tools such as the SOLER framework:

• S: Sitting Position
• O: Open Posture
• L: Lean Forward
• E: Eye Contact
• R: Relax

This framework was demonstrated as a powerful way to actively and empathetically listen to survivors, fostering a safe and supportive environment during interactions.

Dr. Anggraini emphasized that the training aligns with the UNFPA’s mission to ensure medical professionals can prioritize the care of rape survivors, particularly in emergencies. Through lectures, discussions, and role-playing exercises, participants gained practical skills to provide trauma-informed care while maintaining the dignity and safety of survivors.

The sessions also provided a platform for participants to share their own personal experiences with IPV and GBV, highlighting the pervasive nature of these issues. Many attendees offered insights and actionable solutions on how their respective governments could strengthen systems to address sexual harassment and rape cases. Suggestions included enhanced legislation, increased public education, and improved survivor support services.

At the end of the five-day workshop, participants received certificates of completion, symbolizing their readiness to implement what they had learned. They expressed gratitude for the depth and relevance of the program, noting that it has equipped them with the tools to make a meaningful impact in their home countries. One participant shared, “This training has been invaluable, providing not only knowledge but also practical approaches that we can use to support survivors effectively.”

In addition to the hands-on training, participants committed to developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) tailored to their respective countries. These SOPs aim to standardize survivor care and ensure a consistent, evidence-based approach to managing cases of sexual violence and IPV.

The workshop underscored the critical role healthcare professionals play in addressing IPV and GBV, particularly during times of crisis. It highlighted the importance of fostering empathy, enhancing survivor care, and building frameworks that protect and support survivors across the Caribbean.