SMHO General Staff Training – Hargeisa 2024
Nature of the Event
We recently had the privilege of hosting a significant event for our Somaliland branch, creating a valuable opportunity to connect with the dedicated team at the forefront of our charity’s mission. This event was designed not only to strengthen our internal team but also to foster greater community involvement by encouraging active participation in mental health discussions and resource development. To meet these goals, ongoing staff training is essential, ensuring our team is equipped to perform their roles effectively, safely, and in alignment with our core mental health policies.
Addressing the Problem
This initiative directly addresses the deep-rooted stigma surrounding mental health within the Somali community, a barrier that often prevents individuals from seeking the help they need. This stigma is prevalent in both Wales and Somaliland and is exacerbated by the lack of culturally appropriate and sensitive support resources. Our initiative aims to dismantle these barriers, starting with the education and empowerment of our staff in Somaliland. The training was conducted by trained professionals in the field to ensure a full learning experience for the staff.
Key Elements of Training
The training initiative facilitated the exchange of knowledge and skills between health institutions in Wales and Africa, provided essential training to healthcare professionals in Africa, and supported communities in both regions with equitable mental health care.
We delivered a specialised presentations to our staff, focusing on critical areas to ensure they can perform their duties safely, effectively, and efficiently while upholding mental health policies and our organisations key principles. The training included:
- Mental Health Well-being of Staff
- Identifying and Addressing Mental Health Problems
- Financial Management and Accounting
- Fundraising Strategies
- Ethics, Accountability, and Staff Responsibility
Mental Health and Community
Our achievements are made possible through the generosity of donors, and we continue to seek support to deliver life-changing treatments to those who need them most. Our primary goal is to educate the Somali community about mental health, challenge existing taboos, and encourage individuals to seek support.
By raising awareness and securing financial backing, we aim to foster a positive relationship with mental health, drive social improvement, and ensure that the knowledge gained from our workshops is passed on to family and friends. This will create lasting change and bring hope to those affected by mental health challenges.
Economic Impact
Improving understanding and management of mental health issues has the potential to reduce long-term demand for acute healthcare services and the associated costs. Staff with a deeper understanding of mental health are more likely to maintain employment and contribute economically to their communities.
Cultural Impact
This project challenges cultural misconceptions that link mental health issues with poor faith or character, promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment. Empowering individuals with knowledge about mental health encourages self-advocacy and fosters a shift in community norms towards supportive care.
Conclusion
This event was a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to break down mental health stigmas, strengthen support networks, and empower the Somali community with the knowledge and resources they need. We remain committed to continuing this important work and making a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of this effective training and to the participants who will, in turn, make a tremendous impact on the future of the charity. The staff are the front line of our charity, and without them, our cause would be lost. We also deeply appreciate all donors, both individuals and businesses alike—your support is the heartbeat of our charity.