Over 2,000 Trained in Psychological First Aid (PFA) for Children

Over 2,000 individuals across the Eastern Caribbean are equipped to address urgent mental health challenges facing children following a series of virtual and in-person training sessions in Psychological First Aid (PFA) for Children. 

The UNICEF and USAID initiative attracted guidance and school counselors, teachers, social workers, principals, education officers, psychologists, and community organizations.    

Under the leadership of UNICEF’s Child Protection Officer (MHPSS- Mental Health and Psychosocial Support), Bertrand Moses, attendees were equipped with the skills to identify and support children experiencing challenges to their mental health. 

Building Capacity Through Training

The training employed a "Train the Trainer" model, with technical focal points from twelve countries participating. These focal points, equipped with a specially designed PFA workbook by UNICEF, then co-facilitated in-person, virtual, and hybrid training sessions within their respective countries.

To ensure maximum participation, creative recruitment strategies were employed by the participants. This included local media interviews, group lunch incentives, giveaways, social media outreach, and time off from work incentives. Additionally, UNICEF collaborated with organizations such as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) to reach a wider range of community organizations.

Building a Sustainable Support System

A critical element of the program involved mapping existing government Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services across six key sectors - health, education, disaster management, child protection, social services, and emergencies in each participating country. This comprehensive mapping exercise not only identified existing services but also revealed gaps in the system.

The valuable data obtained from this mapping exercise led to the creation of the first-ever Caribbean Directory of Government MHPSS services for children and youth. Participants were also trained on how to utilize these directories for effective referrals.

“A Life-changing experience” 

The program yielded impressive results. A staggering 98% of participants reported gaining new knowledge, and the average post-training score on a knowledge assessment test jumped from 30% to 80%.

Mr. Sturling Campbell, a School Counselor in Grenada, described the experience as "life-changing," highlighting the program's ability to equip ordinary people to assist children experiencing trauma and connect them with appropriate resources.

Ms. Kay Martin-Jack, Chief Education Officer in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, lauded the program's timeliness and the positive impact on participants. She expressed interest in extending the training to other groups and accessing resources to support implementation.