The first two groups of operators and dispatchers of Ukraine's National Police emergency "102" hotline have strengthened their knowledge and skills in effective communication with children during a series of two-day trainings organized by the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine in Uzhgorod from 6 to 9 June 2023.
"Nowadays, we receive more calls from children reporting incidents of abuse and domestic violence, and it is crucial to know how to address those calls effectively. Therefore all the knowledge and skills gained by the participants during the trainings will serve as an essential tool in addressing gender-based and domestic violence cases in times of war," said Andrii Kanashuk, the Deputy Head of the Organisational and Analytical Support and Operational Response Unit, Head of the Department of Organization of Response and "102" service of the National Police of Ukraine.
The "102" hotline personnel are the first responders for children calling the police for help in dangerous or stressful situations. They must quickly collect the necessary information from a child caller, and keep communicating with them until the police arrive. The hotline's goal is to establish good contact, provide initial psychological support and assurance, and give the necessary instructions to ensure the safety of the child and those around them.
The training provided information on how to effectively handle calls from children reporting gender-based violence, including domestic violence cases in the context of war. The topics included identifying gender-based violence, domestic violence, cruel treatment, bullying, as well as their roots and origins, related stereotypes and impact of the war on these issues. Special attention was paid to interagency response and the role of other institutions and services in responding to cases.
The OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine is planning to deliver 20 training sessions, so that by the end of the year up to 600 "102" hotline operators and dispatchers will improve their knowledge and skills.
These courses are part of the project "Building Capacity of National Stakeholders to Provide Social and Psychological Support to Conflict-Affected People in Time of War and During Post-Conflict Recovery", which is being financially supported by the participating States and partners, listed here.
