Lecture on the prevention of violence against children for the Ukrainian Educational Platform
“Every adult who is with a child can give him or her a sense of security if they take him or her seriously, build relationships of trust, do not hurt and know how to protect,” said Ivanka Rudakevych, project and program manager of the UCU Center for the Dignity of the Child, with the participants of the second module of the Ukrainian Educational Platform's program “Balance Your Ministry.”
On April 18, the UCU Center for the Dignity of the Child held a training on the prevention of violence against minors and vulnerable persons for church community leaders, priests, pastors, and active Christians working with youth and children. What experience does the church have in this area, what documents are available to protect minors in the church environment? Ivanka Rudakevych spoke about the types of violence, the algorithm for responding to reports of violence, and provided practical advice on how to listen correctly and where to refer an abused child for further professional help.
“The high statistics of sexual violence and the acceptance of this phenomenon in society indicate the need for systemic measures to change this situation. One of the most effective methods of influence is educational work with children, parents and surrounding adults. A good start can be to listen to an online course together in an organization that will give a better understanding of what violence is; discuss it with colleagues, reflect on its content,” recommends Ivanka Rudakevych.
Adults must take care of children's safety. This means teaching them how to recognize violence, respond to dangerous behavior, be able to defend themselves, and be sure to tell trusted adults about everything.
The same day after the lecture, the participants visited the art installation “Recognize. Respond” art installation, which was part of the presentation of the international project ”SAFEGUARDING. Child Safety in the Church Environment” in the gallery of the Dzyga Art Center.
