⛑️Capacity building for staff

Ensure that your organization has 1-3 contact points who are well-versed in handling cases of LGBTQIA+ survivors.

Provide comprehensive training to all staff, volunteers, and care providers with a queer perspective. This training should cover the following areas:

• SOGIESC

• Human rights

• The legal and broader context of LGBTQIA+ people in Malaysia

• Principles of a survivor-centric approach

• Psychological First Aid (PFA) and other essential response skills like active listening.

• Trauma-informed care

Explaining Terms: Psychological First Aid (PFA)

Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-informed approach for assisting survivors in the aftermath of disaster. PFA helps to alleviate acute stresses resulting from accidents, as well as traumatic events. PFA responders do not need to be a mental health professional to learn PFA. In fact, PFA deals with an urgent situation until a mental health professional becomes available or if the person chooses to seek the help of one.

Why is PFA needed in GBV cases involving LGBTQ people?

LGBTQ people often contend with daily minority stressors, which can compound psychological harm over a lifetime. Experiencing GBV within this context can trigger complex emotions and exert a greater toll on their mental health. In many cases, LGBTQ people may lack supportive resources, turning primarily to LGBTQ activists, community organizers, or service providers.

To better address the specific needs of LGBTQ survivors, it's vital for PFA trainers to be well-versed in LGBTQ issues or adopt a queer-inclusive perspective when conducting PFA training. This approach enables PFA responders to identify a broader range of needs and provide necessary support in the aftermath of traumatic events.

Service providers interested in attending a Queer PFA training can contact PLUHO at [e-mail]

Further Reading - New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Office of Mental Health Disaster Preparedness and Response

Good Practice: How to Practice Active Listening?

• 7 Active Listening Techniques For Better Communication

• 10 tips for active listening

• What are effective active listening techniques for volunteers who have experienced trauma?