137 Enhancing road policing in low and middle income countries through the identification of good practice principles

This paper presents aspects of policy and practice observed in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) and the lessons which can be learned from these and similar initiatives. The role of non-government organisations in capacity building programs and advocacy is identified as a strong foundation for road safety reform. Political will is discussed as a critical component of reform together with the need for a holistic approach to ensure sustainability. The requirement for a strong evidence-base to support evaluation is discussed and the need to ensure strong governance over law enforcement is profiled. Good practice programs are described as well as the importance of harnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of youth in developing and championing initiatives for safer community outcomes. While the lack of resources and financial support may appear as an impediment to some, if viewed as a surmountable challenge, safety outcomes can be achieved. The findings demonstrate that there is a rich environment in LMICs from which to source and undertake key and critical research to stimulate continuous road safety improvement especially in those countries where road trauma remains at a comparatively high level.

Download Full-text

Development and Evaluation of a Psychosocial Model for Children Who Experience Trauma from Low and Middle-income Countries

European Psychiatry ◽

10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.02.205 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 41 (S1) ◽

pp. S308-S308

Author(s):

P. Vostanis

Keyword(s):

Cultural Context ◽

Good Practice ◽

Preliminary Evaluation ◽

Government Schools ◽

Vulnerable Children ◽

Middle Income ◽

Middle Income Countries ◽

Psychosocial Model ◽

Competing Interest ◽

Low And Middle Income

IntroductionDespite fragmented evidence on individual interventions, good practice and child welfare programmes in low and middle-income countries (LMIC), there is no comprehensive model for early interventions, particularly for children who experience complex trauma.ObjectiveThe objective of the World Awareness for Children in Trauma (WACIT: www.wacit.org) is to develop an evidence-based psychosocial model for vulnerable children in low and middle-income countries with limited or no access to specialist resources.MethodsThe aim of the preliminary evaluation was to establish stakeholders’ views on the extent of need, socio-cultural context, service gaps, and recommendations for improvement and creation of working partnerships. This consisted of four studies:– 1. Participatory workshops in six countries (Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, Kenya, Rwanda, Brazil) with a total 250 strategic and operational stakeholders;– 2. Quantitative evaluation in two of these countries (Turkey, 32 participants; and Brazil, 80 participants);– 3. Interviews with 17 stakeholders from the six countries;– 4. Focus groups with 7 children, 7 parents, 9 teachers and 11 other professionals in one country (Kenya).ResultsFindings indicated that lack of resources (funding, facilities, training and personnel), poor collaboration (between church, families, government, schools and community), impaired parenting, socio-economic challenges and limited knowledge on child mental health as key factors that impede interventions.ConclusionsThe findings have informed the next phase of the WACIT programme in developing sustainable networks, training, and culturally appropriate interventions in the participating LMIC.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.

Download Full-text