On May 6, in Kutaisi, the Charity Humanitarian Women Fund “Sukhumi” organized a training for medical personnel on the topic: “The Role of Medical Personnel in Trauma-Informed Communication and Support for Women Survivors of Domestic Violence.”
The training brought together 20 medical professionals - doctors and nurses from Kutaisi, Tskaltubo, Khoni, Senaki, and Zugdidi.
The main goal of the meeting was to raise awareness among medical personnel about trauma-informed approaches, sensitive communication, and response mechanisms in cases of domestic violence. Participants discussed the impact of stereotypical attitudes, the emotional state of women after trauma, and how the first contact with medical personnel can become the beginning of support and a sense of safety for women.
One of the important parts of the training was dedicated to the referral mechanism. Within the block facilitated by Ema Kamkia, participants discussed the roles of the actors involved in the referral process, the responsibilities of medical personnel, documentation issues, cooperation with relevant agencies, and risk assessment mechanisms.
The block on trauma-informed communication was facilitated by Khatuna Gogua. Participants worked on how communication with a woman survivor of violence should be conducted in a way that does not deepen her fear, shame, or sense of insecurity.
During the discussion, participants noted that referral documentation should be more compact and practical, so that it can be used more effectively in real working environments and does not create additional discomfort either for the survivor or for medical personnel.
“We, doctors, have never participated in trainings on such topics before. We received information that is not only important, but necessary for our work,” one of the participants noted.
“We are leaving emotionally and informationally enriched. We reflected on our own responsibility. In our practice, we often come into contact with women survivors of violence, and communication with them is especially important,” said another participant.
At the end of the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of sharing experience and gaining practical knowledge. The training once again highlighted that, when working with women survivors of violence, the role of medical personnel is not limited only to diagnosis and treatment — it is also connected to women’s safety, trust, and support.
The project is implemented with the support of CISU
In Kutaisi, Ekaterine Gamakharia, Head of the Tbilisi Representative Office of the Charity Humanitarian Women Fund “Sukhumi”, conducted a training on the topic: “Trauma-Informed Approach and Understanding the Dynamics of Violence in Working with Women Survivors of Violence.”
The training brought together para-specialists and community leaders who work with women survivors of violence in their daily practice. The aim of the meeting was to strengthen participants’ capacity to apply a trauma-informed approach and to deepen their understanding of the dynamics of violence.
During the training, participants discussed the social roots of violence, the influence of gender norms and stereotypes, violence as a system of control, the cycle and spiral of violence, as well as the impact of trauma on women’s behavior and decision-making.
Special attention was given to practical cases, group work, and the principles of trauma-informed communication. Participants reflected on how women’s reactions and behavior can be understood within the context of trauma, and how to create a safe, non-judgmental space in the support process.
The meeting once again highlighted that working with women survivors of violence begins with understanding, sensitive communication, and recognizing the experiences that affect women’s decisions and emotional state.
The project is implemented with the support of CISU
Retreat is a working meeting, a psychological and physical recharge, a vacation that will be pleasantly remembered by everyone.
The Fund “Sukhumi” staff spent three days with their families at “Borjomi Palace” Hotel (mostly there were children: kind, beautiful, and talented).
There were excursions to the Rabati Fortress, the Cathedral of St. Seraphim of Sarov, the Cathedral of St. George in the village of Sadgeri, and walks through Borjomi Park and the streets.
While working with psychologist Inna Ayrapetyan, the participants sought answers to the following questions: What is our current state? What factors negatively impact us? What can we influence? What can we change? Where can we find new strength and resources?
Of course, we "discovered" many internal resources, created and deciphered their "internal" and "external" masks, mastered new "self-defense" techniques, better understood each other, thought, cried, and laughed...
At the end, the children surprised us: they showed a scene from the forum-theater, danced, and recited poetry...
We realized: the resources are within us, in our families, and also in the beneficiaries, in those whom this organization helps, whom it tries to support for almost 30 years...
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
Women with difficult experiences come to the rehabilitation center: unresolved trauma, long-term stress, hopelessness, low self-esteem, and difficult social situations. However, behind these difficulties lies the ability to fight and faith in a better future.
In order to strengthen their faith, we offered the women a polymer clay master-class led by the trainer - Maka Jishkariani. The creative process was more than just a craft—it was a therapeutic experience, allowing them to discover their own abilities and activate their inner resources.
The workshop participants showed great interest. Each of them demonstrated natural talent and a great desire to better learn this direction.
The works created by them were filled with color, emotions and the hope of something new. This day became another step towards the changes.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
Part of the women's mutual assistance group meetings were held online. Members of Tsalenjikha group spoke online about the importance of their work and noted the support provided by the Fund “Sukhumi” to women. One part of the meeting was devoted to training – trainer Kristine Kutateladze presented a presentation on artificial intellect and answered questions.
In Senaki, attention focused on women's solidarity, the problem of violence, and, in particular, digital violence. Participants were provided with our publication, "Violence in Partner Relationships Using Technology – Recognize and Protect Yourself."
The ordinary meeting of Kobuleti group and other groups was also interesting. Participants discussed women's rights, municipal services, changes, and innovations. A psychologist was also involved, conducting group and individual consultations.
The women enjoy the meetings, where they discuss problems and solutions. The group work provided each of them with new knowledge and experience. They hope that by working together they can achieve more.
The project is implemented with the support the Equality Fund (Canada)
The problem of violence against women becomes even more pressing when the online space is added to it, offering even greater opportunities for violent control.
At meetings organized by Women Support Centers, special attention was paid to the threats posed by digital technologies. It was noted that violence is shown not only in the physical environment. This is a serious challenge online as well.
The meetings focused on the importance of accessing support services for victims of violence so they can protect themselves from such threats and receive the necessary assistance in a timely manner.
Participants noted:
"Women have poor information about digital violence, which exacerbates their feelings of insecurity."
"These meetings are very useful. We can use this awareness to combat this problem."
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
Spring is in our rehabilitation center—in the air, in the flowers in the courtyard, in the women's moods.
It's not visible in the photos, but we know how happy the women are; they share this with us, they appreciate our care, and express their gratitude.
In one photo there is Eka Kvachakidze, the psychologist, whom the women trust most, share their problems and feelings with her, and receive the advice they need.
In the second photo a project coordinator Lela Jalagonia and project assistant Khatuna Gogua are talking to the women. Women are more modest with them, but they say they enjoy being at the center, the environment, the way they are treated, and that the children are also very happy...
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
How actual is the problem of domestic violence in communities?
How informed is the public about victim support services?
How do they respond to cases of violence?
Where can they find information about existing services?
Active discussions on these issues were held at informational meetings initiated by the Women Support Centers of Khurcha (Zugdidi Municipality), Tskaltubo, and Tsalenjikha.
Paraprofessionals actively work with mobilizers to strengthen social work. In parallel with case identification, referrals are underway. Three women and their children will receive psychosocial support at our rehabilitation center.
Social work facilitates access to services, which is especially important for women at risk.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
The aim of informational meetings held in Kutaisi and Senaki was to raise awareness among women and introduce them to resources that ensure the safety of women under the risk.
Participants received information about the forms and types of violence against women, as well as support services for victims of violence. They learned which hotlines are effective and why it is important to be aware of these services.
They noted that receiving such information is important, as people often do not realize that they can also become victims of online violence.
"We often don't realize that online harassment, stalking, or sharing personal information is a form of violence. Now we know whom to address for help."
According to the participants, such meetings help raise awareness in communities and promptly respond to cases of violence.
The project is implemented with the support of the organization Brot
für die Welt - Evangelischer Entwicklungsdienst (Germany)
