By Belize Live News Staff: Belize is strengthening its child protection system through a specialized training programme aimed at helping social workers make better decisions in complex cases involving vulnerable children.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and UNICEF are conducting Best Interest Procedure Training for social workers and child protection professionals from across the country.
The training focuses on a child centered approach to cases involving abuse, neglect, violence, exploitation, displacement and family separation.
Participants are being trained to assess risks, determine appropriate protection measures and make decisions that place the child’s best interests first.
The programme also gives special attention to children who have been forcibly displaced and may face additional risks because of their circumstances.
UNHCR said skilled professionals are essential to effective child protection and that stronger national capacity will help ensure vulnerable children receive quality care and protection.
UNICEF added that decisions affecting children must be timely, informed and based on their rights and well being.
The Department of Human Services is also emphasizing that children have a fundamental right to family life.
Director Shawn Vargas said that where it is safe and appropriate, children should remain with or maintain meaningful contact with their families. Any recommendation for separation must consider both the immediate and long term impact on the child.
The training builds on cooperation between UNHCR, UNICEF and the Government of Belize to strengthen frontline services and improve outcomes for children and families nationwide.
