For survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), the first encounter with the health system can shape their recovery and, in some cases, determine whether crucial evidence needed for justice is preserved.

To improve that first response, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Primary Health Care Board, is training medical social workers, doctors and other healthcare professionals on how to respond to survivors with greater skill, sensitivity and compassion.

The initiative began with a one-day training for 50 medical social workers drawn from health facilities across the state on September 3 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

The participants were trained to provide appropriate psychosocial support, with emphasis on active listening, empathy and a survivor-centred approach.

The aim was to equip them to offer compassionate and competent support from the moment survivors enter the healthcare system.

The programme was followed by a two-day training for medical doctors and healthcare workers, which began on Wednesday, September 9 and ends today, Thursday, September 10.

The training focuses on both the realities survivors face and the practical skills health workers need when managing sexual assault cases.

On the first day, participants examined the meaning and types of gender-based violence, the prevalence of sexual assault, the influence of cultural norms and beliefs, survivors’ rights, the use and disbursement of rape kits, and procedures for recording and reporting SGBV cases.

They also reviewed Lagos State’s existing structures and services for sexual assault survivors, as well as the Mandatory Reporting Policy.

Sessions were facilitated by experts including Dr Veronica Iwayemi, Mrs Oluwatumininu Oni, Head of Case Management at DSVA, and Dr Oluwajimi Sodipo, a Consultant Family Physician.

The sessions focus on direct patient care, including history-taking, informed consent, physical examination, genital anatomy, treatment, disease prevention, medical documentation and referral coordination.

Participants are also receiving practical training in forensic evidence collection, including DNA evidence, forensic screening and the use of rape kits.

Medico-legal issues are being addressed by Mrs Avril Eyewu-Edero, a forensic investigation expert.

Declaring the training open, DSVA Executive Secretary, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to equipping health workers to respond to survivors with professionalism and sensitivity.

The interactive sessions, case scenarios and practical demonstrations are designed to help participants move beyond policies and definitions to the realities of supporting survivors—from the first conversation to the collection of forensic evidence that could strengthen a case in court.