Assessment of Gender-based Violence Response Through Policare Centre; the Case of Central Police Headquarters in Nanyuki

Abstract

Survivors of Gender Based Violence (GBV) have continued to face challenges both in access to post GBV services and justice. Most survivors therefore have had to grapple with access to medical treatment and care, psychosocial support and legal aid. Majority have remained at a disadvantage and at higher risks of suffering further instances of GBV.The current study assessed GBV response through Policare Centre in Laikipia police headquarters, in Nanyuki, Laikipia County. Specifically, the study sought to establish the effectiveness of the Policare Centre in reducing re-traumatization of survivors seeking care, and strategies used to facilitate expeditious justice and closure of GBV cases. The study was guided by Radical Feminism Theory. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews and Key Informant Interviews. Data was analyzed thematically, and results presented through verbatim quotes derived from the voices of the informants. The results reveal that the Policare Centre uses integrated services including medical examination and treatment, psychological counselling, legal aid and police assistance to undercut re-traumatization of GBV survivors. Further the centre has been able to provide support across all aspects of the legal process including pushing for survivor-centric approach within legal proceedings to aid in the closure of GBV cases. However, weak information management systems, inadequate resources as well as lack of knowledge and outreach have created obstacles in effectively addressing and managing cases within the Policare model. While the comprehensive and all-inclusive approach by Policare Centre is the most appropriate model for GBV response, the teething problems must be addressed to mitigate against the risks of survivor re-traumatization and closure of GBV cases. The study recommends that the Policare Centre aligns its information management system with interventions that are predicated on impeccable data collection systems and analysis methods. These interventions include the National Monitoring and Evaluation Framework towards the prevention and response SGBV in Kenya. If adopted, the framework developed by NGEC is ideal in promoting evidence informed interventions at the Policare Centre. The study also calls for increased funding to ensure that the Centre employs a sufficient number of skilled personnel and regularly conducts training and capacity-building programs for their staff, particularly, medical professionals, counsellors, legal experts, and support staff. There is also need for enhanced outreach and awareness campaigns including the launch of more aggressive and focused advertisements to increase visibility of the facility and enhance the effectiveness of the model.