Table 4

A referral pathway for sexual and Gender-Based violence

StepsActionsConsiderations
Primary point of contactExplain the role and inform about available resourcesAlways observe guiding principles: Safety, confidentiality, respect, non-discrimination
Access to health careInform survivor about medical care availability and importance of accessing health care within 72 hFor survivors under 18, must be accompanied by an adult
If she chooses: Refer survivor to available medical clinic/facility with capacity for clinical managementKeep the number of people informed to a minimum to ensure confidentiality
Access to legal and judicial assistanceProvide information on legal services and protection mechanismsInform about possible legal actions and protection measures
If she chooses: Link to police or legal aid for further assistanceRespect her choice to pursue legal action or not
Psychosocial supportProvide information on psychosocial services and supportOffer emotional support and information on coping mechanisms
If she chooses: Link to professional psychosocial support servicesExplain the importance of emotional health and coping strategies
Follow-Up support and Long-Term assistanceProvide ongoing support and monitoring, referring to additional services as neededFollow up with the survivor to ensure continued support
Coordinate with multi-sectoral support services (e.g. health, psychosocial, legal, safety and security)
Referral to additional servicesLink to health, legal, psychosocial, and other necessary servicesEnsure a multi-sectoral approach to address all needs comprehensively
Documentation and information gatheringRecord appropriate, multi-disciplinary interviews and informationGather only necessary information, respecting the survivor’s privacy and choices
Immediate and Long-Term supportEnsure immediate response and plan for long-term assistanceProvide holistic support considering health, psychosocial, safety and security, legal assistance, and multi-sectoral aspects like WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene)
Source: Global Protection Cluster (2010), IPPF (2018)

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