Afrigather 
The World Well being Group (WHO), in partnership with the Tigray Regional Well being Bureau, has made vital strides in offering first-line help (FLS) for gender-based violence (GBV) survivors within the Tigray area. In November and December 2023, 350 well being extension staff (HEWs) primarily based in Tigray participated in specialised coaching designed to equip them with the abilities mandatory to supply sensible care and emotional help to survivors, all whereas respecting their privateness and dignity.
Two months after the coaching, follow-up supervision was performed by WHO’s Tigray GBV specialist in one of many zones to evaluate the affect of the coaching. A GBV focal particular person at a one-stop middle in hospital within the area shared a exceptional statement: “Following the coaching, we noticed a major surge in GBV survivors looking for healthcare providers. The quantity practically doubled.” This notable improve within the variety of survivors looking for help is a testomony to the constructive affect of the coaching supplied to the well being extension staff.
The HEWs performed an important function in facilitating survivors’ entry to help by sharing service suppliers’ contact data and guiding survivors to the suitable assets. This personalised and compassionate outreach underscores the tangible impact of the coaching, fostering higher belief and openness between survivors and healthcare suppliers.
In areas the place skilled HEWs provide first-line help, GBV survivors now profit from clear referral pathways and know whom to method for assist. The proximity of HEWs to the neighborhood empowers survivors to hunt help extra confidently, making a safer and extra supportive atmosphere for them.
This success story highlights the effectiveness of the coordinated effort to empower frontline well being staff. By investing of their coaching and help, healthcare suppliers are actually higher geared up to help GBV survivors and play a essential function in combating gender-based violence. This initiative serves as a mannequin for a way communities and organizations can work collectively to create a community of compassionate and well-prepared people to help these in want.
WHO is grateful for the monetary help acquired from the German Authorities (BMZ). By way of continued collaboration and capability constructing, the WHO and Tigray Regional Well being Bureau are making vital progress towards ending gender-based violence and offering survivors with the help they should heal and thrive. This impactful work paves the best way for a brighter, safer future for the folks of Tigray.
