With funding from Norad, Somali Peace Line (SPL), in partnership with Save the Children Somalia, hosted a meeting in Beledweyne, Hirshabelle State, focused on strengthening child protection referral systems. The purpose was to ensure timely, coordinated, and effective responses for children affected by abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
The meeting aimed to establish a functional and responsive network, ensuring child survivors have access to essential services, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and protective support.
Over 50 representatives from schools, health services, social welfare agencies, police, and community-based organizations actively participated in the session.
Key Outcomes:
✔ Referral directories were developed and distributed to schools and community actors, listing key service providers and their contact details.
✔ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for child protection were established/ updated to guide timely and appropriate responses to child abuse cases.
✔ School and community staff received orientation on referral mechanisms and child protection response procedures.
✔ Strengthened coordination between the education, protection, and health sectors to enhance support for child survivors.
This collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in protecting vulnerable children and ensuring they receive the comprehensive care and assistance they need.
