The Lesotho Police Safeguard Training program is founded on a pressing need to address the critical issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child abuse, which are pervasive concerns in Lesotho. There is ample empirical evidence to suggest that these issues have severe and lasting consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Numerous reports and studies have illuminated the extent of GBV and child abuse in Lesotho. According to UNICEF, Lesotho’s Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) revealed that 37% of women aged 18 to 49 have experienced physical violence at some point in their lives. Furthermore, the Lesotho Demographic and Health Survey (LDHS) reported that 26% of women have experienced sexual violence. Sesotho Media & Development Conducted a Survey where 41% of females who indicated they experienced abuse , said they never reported. The police are a critical stakeholder in addressing this challenge; however the police have had a bias towards perpetrators without much support they can give to the victim.

Internationally recognized best practices in addressing GBV and child abuse emphasize the importance of training law enforcement personnel, such as police officers, to respond effectively including to the needs of the victims. A study published in the “Journal of Interpersonal Violence” by Kimball et al. (2016) demonstrated that specialized training for police officers led to increased identification and reporting of GBV cases. Similarly, the “International Journal of Law, Crime and Justice” published a study by Meyer et al. (2018) highlighting the benefits of trauma-informed training for police in handling abuse cases.

One significant challenge is that LMPS lacks effective coordination with other stakeholders, including social development, educators, and health workers, at the grassroots level. This fragmentation results in missed opportunities for early intervention, underreporting of cases, and an inability to provide comprehensive support to victims. Research published in the “Journal of Family Violence” by Stark et al. (2017) underscores the importance of interagency collaboration to address GBV effectively.

In light of the compelling evidence regarding the prevalence of GBV and child abuse in Lesotho and the proven efficacy of police training in similar contexts, this safeguard training program for police personnel was therefore justified. Its aim was to equip officers with the knowledge and skills to address these issues effectively, break the cycle of abuse, and promote the safety and well-being of the population.

Introduction:

Gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse are grave societal issues that demand urgent attention. The context in Lesotho reflects a pressing need for comprehensive intervention to address these concerns effectively. In response, SM&D initiated the “Using Film as a Tool for Civic Education and Youth Empowerment” project, now in its second phase. The overarching goal of this project is to bolster access, uptake, and linkage to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV, and GBV services among vulnerable individuals in Lesotho by the year 2025. As the project moves forward, SM&D recognized that educating and training police is a cornerstone of meaningful change, and therefore committed to bringing transformative safeguard practices to the forefront of policing in Lesotho.

Training Overview:

This report summarizes the comprehensive safeguard training conducted for the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) personnel as part of the “Using Film as a Tool for Civic Education and Youth Empowerment” project. This training aimed to equip police officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement safeguarding strategies against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and related issues. In so doing sensitization workshops were conducted in 6 police stations as follows

A total number of 79 police officers participated in the sensitisation workshops on safeguarding.

These officers were from the following police stations Pitseng Police, Sefikeng Police, Matelile

Police, Pitso Ground Police, Thaba Phatsoa Police, Ha Ramabanta Police and Thabana Morena Police.

Police officers are at the front lines of responding to GBV and child abuse cases. They play a pivotal role in providing immediate support to victims and survivors. However, the multifaceted nature of GBV and the intricate dynamics surrounding child abuse necessitate specialized training and capacity-building for law enforcement personnel. This workshop, was designed specifically for police officers, aiming to address the following critical areas:

Enhanced Understanding: Equip police personnel with a comprehensive understanding of GBV, its various forms, and the lasting impact on victims and society.

Recognizing Signs: Provide training on recognizing signs of abuse, enabling early identification and intervention.

Trauma-Informed Approaches: Introduce trauma-informed approaches to handling GBV cases with empathy and sensitivity.

Ethical Reporting: Emphasize the importance of ethical reporting, including maintaining confidentiality and respecting victims’ rights.

Interagency Collaboration: Highlight the necessity of collaborative efforts between the police, educators, and health workers to establish a unified safeguarding network.

Through this workshop, SM&D sought to empower police officers to become advocates for change within their communities. By providing them with the knowledge, skills, and resources to respond effectively to GBV and child abuse. The guiding principle was the endeavor to create a safer and more supportive environment in police stations, where victims are heard, supported, and empowered to seek justice and healing.

This report will delve into the comprehensive training provided to the Lesotho Police personnel, the evidence-based approach employed, the challenges faced in addressing GBV, and the recommendations to further strengthen their capacity to combat GBV and child abuse. The training spanned a duration of one week and covered a wide range of topics, including understanding GBV, recognizing signs of abuse, trauma-informed approaches, confidentiality, and ethical reporting. The sessions included presentations, case studies, role-playing exercises, and group discussions to facilitate interactive learning.

Findings from the Police Safeguard Workshop:

 Absence of Safeguard Measures:

A prominent finding from the workshop was the absence of safeguard measures in all police stations. This stark deficiency raises significant concerns about the readiness of the police force to effectively respond to and prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child abuse cases.

Underutilization of Suggestion Boxes:

Another concerning observation was the underutilization of suggestion boxes in all stations. These boxes, which serve as an essential communication tool, were not being used to their full potential, hindering the feedback loop and the opportunity for community engagement.

Resource Shortages and Negative Public Image:

The police officers in attendance candidly highlighted the challenge of inadequate resources, a factor contributing to their negative public image. Officers often find themselves tasked with solving cases without the necessary tools and support, a situation that exacerbates public frustration and erodes trust in law enforcement. In one specific instance, the Sefikeng police station, which has a vast 425.8 square kilometer catchment area, lacks a functioning vehicle. This significant shortfall in transportation severely hampers their ability to respond promptly to incidents and conduct investigations. Furthermore, it was disclosed that there is only one officer assigned to address GBV issues within the entire station.

Lack of Psychosocial Services:

A recurring concern voiced by the police officers was the absence of psychosocial services. This gap was seen as a critical contributing factor to the prevailing aggressive policing norms seen in the country. Officers often face high-stress situations and require psychosocial support to navigate the complex and emotionally taxing nature of their work.

These findings underscore the pressing need for comprehensive reforms within the police force, with a particular emphasis on resource allocation, training, and the provision of psychosocial support. The absence of safeguard measures and underutilization of suggestion boxes further highlight the urgency of addressing systemic shortcomings. The observations from the Sefikeng police station serve as a poignant example of the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel, emphasizing the need for tangible solutions and improvements to enhance their effectiveness and public perception.

Recommendations for Police Personnel:

 Enhance GBV Awareness: Police officers should actively participate in community awareness campaigns to educate the public about GBV and related issues, fostering a safer environment.

Refine Interviewing Skills: Continuously improve their interviewing techniques, particularly when dealing with victims of abuse, to create a supportive atmosphere conducive to disclosure.

Interagency Collaboration: Strengthen collaboration with educators and health workers to establish a comprehensive support network for victims and survivors.

Mental Health Support: Ensure that police personnel have access to mental health support and counseling services to cope with the emotional toll of handling GBV cases.

Regular Training: Police officers should undergo periodic refresher courses and stay updated on evolving GBV laws and protocols.

Interagency Collaboration:

Foster collaboration and coordination with educators and healthcare providers to create a unified safeguarding network. Multi-agency cooperation is essential for holistic GBV prevention and response.

Community Engagement:

Engage with local communities through outreach programs and awareness campaigns to build trust and encourage reporting of GBV and child abuse cases.

Data Collection and Analysis:

Implement robust data collection and analysis mechanisms to monitor the effectiveness of safeguard measures, identify trends, and inform evidence-based policymaking.

Public Awareness and Advocacy:

Conduct public awareness campaigns to educate the community about the role of the police in GBV prevention and response. Advocate for public support and cooperation in addressing these critical issues.

These recommendations, when implemented, will strengthen the capacity of the police force in Lesotho to address GBV and child abuse effectively, enhance public trust, and create a safer and more supportive environment for all citizens. Refresher trainings are therefore recommended for practical implementation of these recommendations with the police representative from the targeted police stations.

 MULTISTAKEHOLDER SAFEGUARD TRAINING REPORT

 Report 2: Educators’ Safeguard Training

Background for Educators’ Safeguard Training:

Educators play a pivotal role in creating safe and nurturing learning environments for youth and children. However, the pressing need to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child abuse within educational settings in Lesotho is evident. Research evidence reveals the prevalence of abuse in schools and its adverse impact on students. Studies conducted worldwide consistently reveal that educational settings can be breeding grounds for various forms of abuse, including GBV and bullying. A systematic review published in the “Journal of School Health” by Smith et al. (2019) emphasized the prevalence of bullying and its adverse effects on students’ mental health and well-being. The abuse also can be observed not only in the school space but also in the communities where the students stay.

Scholarly research underscores the significance of training educators to recognize and respond to abuse effectively. A study published in the “Journal of Interpersonal Violence” by Anderson et al. (2018) demonstrated that educators who receive specialized training in recognizing signs of abuse and providing appropriate support contribute significantly to reducing instances of abuse within schools. Additionally, research in the “International Journal of Educational Development” by Patel et al. (2017) highlights the effectiveness of school-based intervention programs in reducing GBV.

A substantial challenge in Lesotho is the lack of effective coordination among stakeholders, including educators, police, and health workers, at the grassroots level. This fragmented approach hinders the implementation of comprehensive safeguarding measures. A study published in the “International Journal of Educational Management” by Williams et al. (2019) emphasizes the need for interagency collaboration to create safer school environments.

Given the evidence of abuse in educational settings and the proven efficacy of educator training programs in addressing GBV and bullying, the Educators’ Safeguard Training program is justified. It aims to empower educators with the knowledge and skills to prevent, identify, and respond to abuse, thereby creating safe and nurturing learning environments for students.

Introduction:

 Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child abuse are critical issues that demand our immediate attention, particularly within educational settings. The context in Lesotho underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention to address these concerns effectively. In response, Sesotho Media & Development (SM&D) initiated the “Using Film as a Tool for Civic Education and Youth Empowerment” project, now in its second phase. The overarching goal of this project is to bolster access, uptake, and linkage to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV, and GBV services among vulnerable individuals in Lesotho by the year 2025.

As part of this commitment, SM&D recognized that educators are central figures in creating safe spaces for youth to thrive. The Educators’ Safeguard Training program was designed to provide educators with the knowledge and tools to address GBV and child abuse within educational settings effectively.

Training Overview:

 This report summarizes the comprehensive safeguard training conducted for educators and education professionals in Lesotho. The aim of this training was to equip them with the knowledge and skills required to create safe and supportive environments for youth and children, focusing on preventing and responding to GBV and related issues.

The training spanned two weeks and covered topics such as psychosocial counseling for youth, recognizing signs of abuse, creating safe school environments, and establishing support systems. Interactive sessions included role-playing exercises, group discussions, and case studies to facilitate practical learning.

A total number of 109 educators took part in the sensitization workshops from the following schools, Khethiso High school, Machache Primary, Mokoallong High School, Bolahla Primary school, Paballong Day Care & Youth Centre, Thabana Morena High school, Mount Tabor High school, Rantollo Mohale High school, Ribaneng High school, Zenon High school, Pitseng High school, and Ribaneng Primary School.

Findings from the Educators’ Safeguard Workshop:

 Absence of Safeguard Measures:

One striking finding from the workshop was the absence of safeguard measures in educational institutions. The lack of dedicated safe spaces and support systems within schools raised concerns about the safety of students.

Challenges in Coordination:

Similar to the police, educators highlighted challenges stemming from poor coordination among stakeholders, including police and healthcare providers. This lack of coordination results in missed opportunities for early intervention and underreporting of cases.

Limited Resources for Support:

Educators expressed concerns about limited resources for providing support to students affected by GBV and abuse. Many educators indicated that they lack the training and tools required to address these issues effectively.

The absence of safeguard measures within educational settings and the challenges associated with poor coordination and resource limitations underscore the critical need for reforms within the education sector. Addressing these shortcomings is paramount to creating safe and nurturing learning environments for Lesotho’s youth.

Recommendations for Educators:

 Implement Safe Space Initiatives: Create dedicated safe spaces within schools where students can feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues and seeking support.

Establish Supportive Clubs: Establish and support clubs focused on GBV awareness and prevention, providing students with a platform to express their concerns.

Strengthen Parental Involvement: Encourage parental involvement through workshops and information-sharing sessions on safeguarding measures, fostering a collaborative approach to child protection.

Mandatory Reporting: Ensure that educators are familiar with and adhere to mandatory reporting protocols when abuse is suspected, ensuring timely intervention.

Continued Professional Development: Provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to keep educators updated on best practices and evolving trends in child protection.

By implementing these recommendations, educators can contribute significantly to creating safer and more supportive learning environments for Lesotho’s youth, where they can thrive academically and emotionally. Refresher training and continuous professional development are recommended to ensure the sustained implementation of these safeguarding measures in educational institutions across the country.

MULTISTAKEHOLDER SAFEGUARD TRAINING REPORT

 Report 3: Health Workers’ Safeguard Training

Background for Health Workers’ Safeguard Training:

 Healthcare settings play a crucial role in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and related issues. The need to create safe spaces within clinics and health facilities in Lesotho is evident due to the prevalence of GBV victims who do not come forward to clinics to seek support services after experiencing abuse in disregard to the adverse impact on their physical and mental health.

Evidence of GBV in Healthcare Settings:

Extensive research has revealed that healthcare settings can be arenas where GBV goes unnoticed or unaddressed. A systematic review published in the “Lancet Global Health” by Abuya et al. (2015) highlighted the global prevalence of intimate partner violence among women accessing healthcare services. Additionally, studies in “The Lancet Psychiatry” by Howard et al.

(2013) have shown the link between GBV and mental health issues among patients.

The importance of training healthcare providers to recognize and respond to GBV is well- documented in scholarly literature. A study published in the “Journal of General Internal Medicine” by Bair-Merritt et al. (2018) demonstrated that healthcare workers who receive training are more likely to identify GBV cases and provide appropriate support. Moreover, research in “The Lancet Global Health” by Garcia-Moreno et al. (2015) underlines the value of integrating GBV services into routine healthcare.

Challenges in Coordination:

Lesotho faces the challenge of poor coordination among stakeholders, including health workers, educators, and police, at the grassroots level. This lack of coordination results in missed opportunities to identify and support GBV victims within healthcare settings. Research in the “Bulletin of the World Health Organization” by O’Doherty et al. (2015) stresses the need for interagency collaboration to address GBV comprehensively.

Given the evidence of GBV in healthcare settings and the proven efficacy of healthcare provider training in recognizing and responding to GBV, the Health Workers’ Safeguard Training program is justified. It aims to equip healthcare workers with the knowledge and skills required to create safe and supportive healthcare environments, ultimately improving the physical and mental well- being of patients.

Introduction:

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and related issues are critical concerns that require immediate attention, particularly within healthcare settings. Lesotho’s context underscores the urgency of comprehensive intervention to address these concerns effectively. In response, Sesotho Media & Development (SM&D) initiated the “Using Film as a Tool for Civic Education and Youth Empowerment” project, now in its second phase. The overarching goal of this project is to bolster access, uptake, and linkage to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV, and GBV services among vulnerable individuals in Lesotho by the year 2025.

Healthcare professionals are central to providing essential support to victims of GBV and related issues. Therefore, the Health Workers’ Safeguard Training program was designed to equip them with the knowledge and tools to address GBV effectively within healthcare settings.

Training Overview:

 This report summarizes the comprehensive safeguard training conducted for healthcare professionals and workers in Lesotho. The training aimed to equip them with the knowledge and skills required to create safe and supportive healthcare environments and address GBV and related issues.

The training spanned two weeks and covered topics such as identifying signs of abuse, providing trauma-informed care, ensuring patient confidentiality, and integrating GBV services into routine healthcare. Interactive sessions included case studies, role-playing exercises, and group discussions to facilitate practical learning.

A total number of 60 health professionals were reached in this activity. They were from the following health facilities: Bethany clinic, Fatima Health Centre, Thaba Phatsoa Health Centre, Nazareth Health Centre, Paballong HIV/AIDS Health Centre, Mahobong Health Centre, and Ribaneng Health Centre.

Findings from the Health Workers’ Safeguard Workshop:

 Absence of Safeguard Measures:

A significant finding from the workshop was the absence of safeguard measures within healthcare settings. The lack of dedicated support systems for patients affected by GBV and related issues raised concerns about the overall well-being of patients. In some instances there were guidelines however the practitioners gave feedback that they rarely ever remind themselves and their peers on these.

Challenges in Coordination:

Similar to the police and educators, healthcare professionals emphasized challenges stemming from poor coordination among stakeholders. This lack of coordination results in missed opportunities for early intervention and underreporting of cases. In one example in Sefikeng where a child was molested. The child could not be traced to determine if he received psychosocial support and sexual health services, considering the perpetrator (an educator) is on Tuberculosis treatment. All facilities in the Sefikeng area from Good Shepherd, Paballong, Bethany and Thaba-Bosiu clinic – none of them had received the client. The police could only account for action to investigate and arrest however due to poor coordination with other service providers including social welfare it couldn’t not be determined if the child received support services.

Limited Resources for Support:

Healthcare workers expressed concerns about limited resources and training opportunities to address GBV effectively. Many healthcare professionals indicated the need for more comprehensive training in trauma-informed care.

The absence of safeguard measures within healthcare settings and the challenges associated with poor coordination and resource limitations underscore the critical need for reforms within the healthcare sector. Addressing these shortcomings is essential to creating safe and supportive healthcare environments for patients in Lesotho.

Recommendations for Health Workers:

 Establish GBV Support Units: Create dedicated GBV support units within healthcare facilities, staffed by trained professionals who can provide confidential support to patients.

Enhance Training Programs: Develop and implement comprehensive training programs for healthcare professionals, focusing on trauma-informed care and recognizing signs of GBV.

Routine Screening: Implement routine screening for GBV during patient consultations to identify cases promptly and offer appropriate support.

Interagency Collaboration: Strengthen collaboration with educators and police to establish a unified safeguarding network, ensuring comprehensive support for victims and survivors.

Psychosocial Services: Ensure that healthcare workers have access to psychosocial support services to cope with the emotional challenges of addressing GBV cases.

By implementing these recommendations, healthcare professionals can significantly contribute to creating safer and more supportive healthcare environments for patients in Lesotho. Continuous professional development and interagency collaboration are recommended to ensure the sustained implementation of these safeguarding measures in healthcare facilities across the country.

In conclusion, these three safeguard training programs have equipped police personnel, educators, and healthcare workers with valuable skills and knowledge to effectively respond to and prevent GBV and related issues. By implementing the recommendations provided, each group can contribute significantly to creating safer and more supportive environments for youth and vulnerable populations in Lesotho.

THIS REPORT WAS MADE POSSIBLE DUE TO FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM BREAD FOR THE WORLD & AMPLIFYCHANGE