35 Social Workers Trained in Trauma Care

Starting today, 35 social workers and counsellors in Belize are undergoing specialised training on trauma-informed care. The four-day workshop is organised by the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs in collaboration with the U.S.-based NGO Peaceful Households and the Ixchel Caribe Foundation in Belize City.

The training will focus on understanding, recognising, and responding to the effects of trauma on individuals and help professionals provide more empathetic and effective support. “By adopting these practices, social work and counselling professionals are better equipped to provide empathetic, effective, and holistic support to clients, promoting resilience and recovery,” a joint statement read.

Kathy Orr, an expert in trauma-informed practices, is leading the sessions. A follow-up session is scheduled for January 24 at the New Beginnings Youth Development Centre, with 12 participants continuing their education.