To support and help: methods of providing psychosocial assistance in emergencies were discussed in Zhytomyr

On October 30 – November 1, the third training on the basics of providing psychosocial assistance in emergencies and crises was being implemented in Zhytomyr. The trainers are psychologists Olena Sudakova and Olesia Druzhyna.

The training was attended by practicing psychologists, as well as employees of specialized centres. The aim of the training was to gain practical skills in providing psychosocial assistance to people who have experienced crisis and emergencies.

"The training began with instructions on the pandemic and security measures. Getting acquainted with the group, it was found that it consists of participants from different regions of the country who are engaged in various spheres, half of the participants are somehow related to the training subject, are more or less familiar with the principles of providing psychosocial assistance in emergencies and crises; two people provide psychosocial assistance professionally. The rest of the group is not related to the training subject in their professional activities, but aim to provide such psychological assistance in the future. All participants are practitioners and members of public formations and associations", the trainers told.

The trainers added that most of the participants spoke about the whole training as an important and relevant event, which is a great support in their work.

"Among the positive details, participants noted the development of their own support systems according to the basic principles of the IASC, community mobilization, BASIC Ph in three variations, human resources and staff support system in emergencies, and specialized assistance", the trainers added.

The training-course was implemented within the "Crisis prevention and Peace building in Ukraine – Time to Act!" project, supported with German Federal Foreign Office’s funds by IFA (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen), Funding programme zivik.