UNICEF Philippines and Australia: Collaborative efforts in digitalising protection services for women and children

Through the Women and Child Protection Units (TeleWCPUs) at Davao Regional Medical Center, Australian Government and UNICEF Philippines are collaborating to provide access to facilities for women and children who have suffered violence and abuse. These facilities enable women and children to report abuse and seek protective assistance through a call or text message while also providing therapy through video with social workers, mental health specialists, and doctors. The TeleWCPUs provide means for women and children to report violence, abuse, and seek information about protection services, particularly for those without direct access to the regional hospital’s Women and Child Protection Unit.

Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov, UNICEF’s representative in the Philippines, emphasised the need to protect women and children from all forms of violence and highlighted the need to ensure that child protection and safety services continue in all communities. Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, HK Yu PSM, highlighted the importance of digitalising protection services to enhance accessibility and support individuals in need. This was achieved through Project BRAVE (Building COVID-safe Responses and Voices for Equity).