KIKORI, Gulf Province –Sixteen frontline health workers complete intensive training on survivor-centred case management, trauma-informed care, and referral pathways to strengthen support for survivors of violence in Kikori District.
The training was conducted from 31 August to 4 September 2026 and was facilitated by Femili PNG Chief Executive Officer, Ms Daisy Plana, and Executive Officer, Ms Elly Toimbo. The initiative aimed to strengthen the capacity of frontline service providers to respond effectively to violence, support survivors, and contribute to safer, more inclusive, and resilient communities.
Throughout the training, participants demonstrated a strong commitment to improving their understanding of case management and survivor support. While many participants had foundational knowledge in case management, the training significantly strengthened their understanding of key areas including gender concepts, trauma-informed care, case management principles, referral pathways, child protection, safeguarding, and survivor support.
During the introductory session, participants expressed a strong desire to strengthen their practical skills in psychosocial support, communication and active listening, trauma-informed care practices, case management and documentation, child protection and safeguarding, referral pathways and service coordination, and confidentiality and ethical practice.
According to the facilitators, the week-long training provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Family and Sexual Violence (FSV), focusing on gender concepts, power relations, gender equality, and the links between gender inequality and violence. Participants explored the different forms, causes, drivers, and impacts of violence, as well as human rights principles and relevant international and Papua New Guinea legal frameworks. The training also covered child safeguarding, survivor-centred approaches, communication skills for supporting survivors, and the identification of formal and informal support services and referral pathways.
One participant reflected on the value of the training, stating:
“We gained confidence in identifying signs of trauma, responding appropriately to survivors, and providing support in a safe, respectful, and empowering manner. We learned that survivors should be supported to make their own informed decisions and that our role is to empower and assist them rather than direct or control their choices.”
Another participant highlighted the importance of understanding protection mechanisms and available support services:
“The training increased our awareness of the laws and support systems available in Papua New Guinea to protect survivors of violence. We learned about referral pathways, child safeguarding principles, confidentiality, mandatory reporting requirements, and the importance of effective communication when assisting survivors.”
Participants were also introduced to the principles of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) and gained a deeper understanding of the effects of trauma on individuals, including emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and developmental impacts. Key topics included Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), the impact of trauma on brain development, neurobiological responses to stress and threat, trauma recovery, and practical approaches for supporting survivors. The sessions emphasized trauma-informed, survivor-centred practices that promote safety, resilience, healing, and effective support for individuals affected by violence.
Beyond gaining new knowledge and skills, participants reported increased confidence and demonstrated a strong commitment to applying their learning through survivor support, awareness raising, advocacy, and improved coordination with key stakeholders and service providers.
Training facilitators Ms Daisy Plana and Ms Elly Toimbo said the training delivered significant value by strengthening participants’ understanding of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Family and Sexual Violence (FSV), and Trauma-Informed Care, while fostering personal reflection, professional growth, and a deeper commitment to survivor-centred practice.
“The training strengthened participants’ understanding of Gender-Based Violence and Trauma-Informed Care while fostering personal reflection and professional growth. Participants gained practical knowledge and skills that will enhance their ability to recognize, prevent, and respond appropriately to violence and trauma within their workplaces, families, and communities,” they said.
They further noted that the training created a safe space for honest dialogue, self-awareness, learning, and behavioural change. Participants demonstrated increased empathy for survivors, a stronger understanding of their responsibilities as service providers, and a greater commitment to promoting respectful, safe, and violence-free relationships. The high level of engagement, positive feedback, and personal testimonies shared throughout the training reflected its meaningful and lasting impact.
The training concluded successfully with certificates presented to all 16 participants in recognition of their commitment to strengthening support services for survivors of violence in Kikori District.
