Department of Community Rehabilitation

Published 19th December 2011, 12:53pm

Sixteen individuals made up the graduating class of the Domestic Violence Intervention Training Programme (DVITP) this past Thursday (15 December).

The trainees were recognised for demonstrating a high level of commitment, increased knowledge and success throughout the three full-day sessions. During the ceremony, graduates received certificates reflecting their completion of the programme.

Offered by the Department of Counselling Services' Family Resource Centre (FRC), DVITP is sensitivity training targeted for professionals who interact with victims of domestic violence. The programme also aims to educate persons about domestic violence and its surrounding issues while providing them with appropriate responses to violence.

Guest speaker Commissioner of Police David Baines gave opening remarks at the ceremony. The Commissioner shared his professional experiences as a witness to many domestic violence acts and presented ways in which individuals, including agencies and the community as a whole, can help prevent these offences.

The graduates came from various government agencies, such as Department of Community Rehabilitation, Her Majesty Prison Service, National Road Authority, Department of Counselling Services, Youth Services Commission and Family Support Unit.

"I am delighted to see the range of agencies involved in this programme as this is in keeping with the philosophy that underpinned the decision to introduce DVITP in Cayman. The intention was to train professionals across many disciplines so that victims would have greater access to persons throughout our community who would understand the cycle of domestic violence, its effects on victims and their families, and be knowledgeable about the resources available in our community to assist." said Director of Counselling Services Judith Seymour.

FRC's Acting Programme Coordinator Miriam Foster said domestic violence intervention training can make positive changes in the community and can help to empower others. "A special thanks to the programme facilitators. Their hard work and passion will continue to inspire future participants," she added.

Programme facilitators Brenda Dawkins and Cindy Blekaitis congratulated the graduates and extended heartfelt praise for their enthusiastic participation. The two are also looking forward to holding future sessions.

If you are interested in participating in DVITP, contact the Family Resource Centre at 949-0006. The sessions take place every quarter throughout the year and it is anticipated that the next training programme will be offered during the spring.

(GIS)