The para-social worker system has proven to be an effective approach in strengthening child protection and case management at the community level. By equipping para-social workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, they have become critical frontline responders in identifying, assessing, and addressing cases of child abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The PSWs work closely with families, community leaders, and the police to enhance early intervention efforts, ensuring that vulnerable children receive timely support and referrals to appropriate services.
One of the key strengths of the PSW system is that the officers are accessible. Para-social workers are embedded within communities, making it easier for children and families to seek help without fear of stigma or long bureaucratic processes. The presence of PSWs in communities has bridged the gap between formal child protection services and hard-to-reach populations, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Through continuous engagement, they have built trust with community members, which has led to an increase in reporting and response to child protection concerns.
Additionally, the integration of para-social workers into existing child protection frameworks has fostered strong collaboration between community structures and government agencies. By working alongside social workers, local authorities, and THRIVE-Gulu, a local implementing partner under "Transforming the Future with and For Children" funded by NORAD, para-social workers have facilitated a more coordinated approach to case management. This has led to improved documentation, follow-up, and monitoring of cases, ensuring that children receive comprehensive and sustained care.
“Jane* (not her real name) was defiled at the age of 15yrs by a perpetrator in Northern Uganda. When her mother reported the case to me, I responded promptly and referred the case to Awach Police Station. The perpetrator was arrested and after thorough investigation and hearing in court, he was incarcerated. The girl was examined by doctors and enrolled on PEP to prevent the contraction of sexually transmitted diseases, psychosocial support was given to her not to leave school. Later, the girl was found to be pregnant. She carried the pregnancy, and my major role was to provide her with all the necessary support in form of counselling and providing psychosocial support”, said Watmon David- a trained parasocial worker.
“15-year-old Jane* (not her real name) gave birth to a baby boy after which I encouraged her to go back to school and was supported by THRIVE Gulu. She enrolled in Primary 6 where she performed well and got promoted to primary 7. In 2024, she was among the children who sat for the Primary Leaving Examinations at her school, and she excelled in Division 1. I am glad she still desires to continue with her education at Secondary Level and her father is willing to support her by providing school fees,” continued David.
The system has also contributed to capacity building within communities, as trained para-social workers often take on advocacy roles, raising awareness on children's rights and protection measures. Their work in sensitizing parents, caregivers, and community leaders has led to positive shifts in attitudes and behaviors towards child welfare. This preventive aspect of their work has been instrumental in reducing instances of child rights violations before they escalate into more severe cases.
The para-social worker model has strengthened child protection systems by making services more accessible, responsive, and community-driven. With ongoing trainings of PSWs under the NORAD project, supervision, and support, these workers continue to play a vital role in safeguarding children's well-being and ensuring that case management is effective and sustainable.
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