TIPS FOR CHILD VICTIM CENTRED ORGANISATIONS
Critical success factors for working with child GBV victims When dealing with child survivors of GBV, it is important to abide by the following ethical principles.
WITHIN SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS
Dealing with child survivors of GBV is highly sensitive and much care and consideration needs to be taken into account when working in this environment. From TBF’s vast experience, there have been lessons learnt which have become success factors in dealing with children. Here are some tips for organisations wanting to have an impact in this sector.
CONFIDENTIALITY Child survivors of GBV should be assured of confidentiality and its limitations. Some information has to be shared with some authorities competent to intervene.
RESPECT, DIGNITY, NON-DISCRIMINATION, NON-JUDGEMENTAL ATTITUDE, UNIQUENESS
INCLUSIVITY
Understand that schools are not a homogenous community. They are multicultural communities with diverse beliefs and languages and it is therefore key to be inclusive and sensitive in your approach. It is important to know the school culture and preferred language respect all religions and remain neutral.
Child survivors need to be treated with respect irrespective of their circumstances and their stories. There should be no discrimination based on gender, race, culture, or religion. Each child is unique and there should never be judgement on what they were doing or where they were when the violation took place. TOUCHING Survivors of GBV may not feel comfortable when they are touched. It is important to ask them if it is okay before proceeding. Any nudge, touch, hug or shaking hands – one needs to check first – as it may be perceived as intrusive.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Always consider the developmental ages of the
ALTERNATIVE CARE
children. Reassure children that there is no right or wrong answer. Treat all children equally and with respect, it will motivate them to engage and interact.
Children are removed from the care of offending caretakers in the event of them being at risk of further abuse. If they are found to be at risk and removed, one needs to look at next of kin before foster care or institutional care. Focus must always be on “the best interests of the child”.
EXPRESSION
Learn from the children by allowing children to express and verbalise, giving the voiceless a platform where they can be heard. In this way issues that affect them could be shared and addressed.
RIGHT TO SELF-DETERMINATION
Social workers must respect their client’s autonomy and decision making, provided it does not cause them any harm.
32 | Collective Action Magazine
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