Training for specialists in the protection of children who suffered from violence during the war was held in Chernihiv

In response to the growing need for support for children affected by violence in armed conflict, a specialized training was held in Chernihiv for specialists from children’s services of local communities in Chernihiv region.

The event aimed to increase the capacity of workers in identifying, protecting and referring individuals, including children who have experienced gender-based and sexual violence related to the conflict, as well as other victims of war.

Participants were introduced to the main international standards and national mechanisms for responding to cases of war-related sexual violence, learned to recognize signs of traumatic experiences and respond appropriately to the stories of victims.

A separate part of the training was devoted to the topic of emotional resources and protection of the professionals themselves. Participants learned how to recognize the first signs of professional burnout, how to prevent chronic stress and exhaustion in the conditions of daily work with traumatized people. The importance of regular supervision, emotional recovery, and work-life balance was emphasized.

“Working with victims is not only a responsibility, but also a great psychological burden. It is important for us to be able to help others without losing ourselves. Therefore, the block on self-help and team support was extremely useful,” shared a training participant.

The training was held in the format of live dialogue, practical exercises, and analysis of real cases.

Holding such events is part of a broader initiative to support communities working with people who have experienced violence or losses as a result of war.

Increasing professional awareness and caring for the well-being of professionals themselves is the key to effective and sustainable assistance to victims.

The project is implemented thanks to the support of the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland within the framework of the project “Women, Peace, Security: Acting Together”, implemented by the Ukrainian Women’s Fund.