Support for Barnahus implementation in Latvia

About this project

<p style="text-align: justify">The main aim of the project is to strengthen child-friendly justice by developing, testing and implementing a multisectoral and multi-disciplinary institution that is focused on child victims of violence/abuse. The project is aiming to develop, test and implement a multisectoral and multi-disciplinary victim centered institutional cooperation model for cases of violence against children – Barnahus model</p> <p style="text-align: justify">The main activities in the project include;</p> <ul> <li>establishing more effective and efficient procedures for investigation of child abuse;</li> <li>increasing the knowledge of staff and potential witnesses;</li> <li>raising public awareness (two public campaigns);</li> <li>upgrading facilities in line with the European quality standards for Barnahus;</li> <li>staff will be trained in responding to concerns of child abuse;</li> <li>development of a multi-disciplinary model (teams of professionals) for inter-agency cooperation and coordination;</li> <li>providing relevant guidelines and methodology to respond to the cases effectively and taking into consideration the needs of the victims.</li> </ul> <hr>

Bilateral cooperation results

To drive the successful adoption of the Barnahus model, this project leveraged strategic international exchange and public engagement. Firstly, a pivotal study visit to the Icelandic Children’s House offered an in-depth, firsthand experience. This immersion provided crucial insights into the model's practical application, demonstrating its operational workflow, the effectiveness of interdisciplinary teamwork, and the importance of a child-centered approach. Secondly, to expand public understanding and highlight the EEA Grants' support, the project participated in the prominent Arendal Week "Arendalsuka" festival. This event served as a vital platform for engaging with key decision-makers, stakeholders, and the wider public, allowing the project to effectively communicate the advantages of the Barnahus model and champion its implementation in Latvia.

Project partners

• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Donor project partner· France
• Government Agency for Child Protection Donor project partner· Iceland
• Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Project partner· France
• Children's Clinical University Hospital Project partner· Latvia
• State Inspectorate for Protection of Children's Rights Project partner· Latvia