What You Need to Know
A five-day training program for First Responders to domestic violence commenced in Mauritius, organized by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare and the British High Commission. The initiative aims to equip participants with essential skills to support victims, emphasizing the importance of a professional and empathetic response in crisis situations.
Africa-Press – Mauritius. A five-day training programme for First Responders to domestic violence, organised jointly by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare and the British High Commission in Mauritius, kickstarted, this morning, at the National Women Development Centre in Phoenix.
The Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mrs Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, and the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Mr Paul Brummell CMG, were present at the launching ceremony.
In her keynote address, Minister Navarre-Marie highlighted the crucial role of First Responders as a vital line of support for victims of domestic violence. She stressed that they are often the first point of contact in times of crisis and that their response can determine whether victims find safety or remain trapped in a cycle of abuse. Addressing participants, she noted that beyond being First Responders, they serve as guides, protectors and sources of support, and that their approach can influence victims’ confidence and willingness to seek help.
The Minister pointed out that a professional, empathetic and informed response can make a life-changing difference for victims by helping them move from fear to safety, silence to support and vulnerability to empowerment.
She expressed confidence that such initiatives would contribute to promoting gender equality and safeguarding the fundamental rights of women, adding that improving response systems is key to building safer homes, stronger families and more resilient communities. She also emphasised the importance of collaboration among institutions to ensure that survivors receive comprehensive support, from immediate protection to long-term recovery.
As for the British High Commissioner, Mr Paul Brummell, he spoke of the urgency of tackling the issue of domestic violence against women. Pointing out that the joint training programme is being undertaken under the Mauritius-UK Strategic Partnership Framework, he remarked that it will provide a platform to align efforts and deepen cooperation to advance the safety and rights of women, support capacity building and strengthen services to protect victims of abuses.
The Training programme
The training programme aims to strengthen the capacity of the 35 First Responder participants by deepening their understanding of the complex dynamics of domestic violence and equipping them with practical tools to identify abuse, respond with empathy and professionalism, ensure victims’ safety and refer them to appropriate support services.
Domestic violence remains a critical issue globally, with many countries, including Mauritius, recognizing the need for effective intervention strategies. Training programs for First Responders are essential in equipping individuals with the necessary skills to handle sensitive situations involving victims of abuse. Such initiatives not only aim to improve immediate responses but also contribute to broader societal changes towards gender equality and the protection of women’s rights. The collaboration between local authorities and international partners, like the UK, highlights the importance of shared responsibility in addressing these pressing social issues.
