The Lagos State Government has launched a partnership scheme with pharmacies for the purpose of attending to Domestic Violence cases through the “Speak to INU” code scheme
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) Mrs. Titilola Vivour- Adeniyi disclosed at a one-day training for pilot community licensed pharmacists.
This initiative is pioneered by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, in partnership with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Lagos Branch.
Mrs. Vivour- Adeniyi ìn her address said: “the community pharmacy environment lends itself well to this scheme. This is because community licensed pharmacies have consultation/ Counselling rooms available.
“For many victims affected by domestic abuse, seeking medical assistance through a pharmacy is often a preferred option.
“This scheme provides a clear process to follow, and additional training and guidance to support them to deliver this assistance even more effectively. The pharmacy presents itself as a safe space for survivors in this regard. ”
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Under the scheme, selected pharmacists were trained on “Gender Roles , Understanding Sexual and Gender , raising the index of suspicion , the relevant laws that regulate Sexual and Gender Based Violence in the State, as well as an overview of the support services for survivors in Lagos State.”
She said a list of pioneer partner pharmacies is accessible on the DSVRT’s website- www.dsvrtlagos.org)
An introduction into the ‘Speak to INU code scheme’ was presented by the Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Lagos Branch , Pharm Lawrence Ekhator .
On his own part, the Chairman of PSN, Lagos Branch, Pharm. Gbolagade Iyiola reiterated the association’s commitment in ensuring that survivors of domestic violence who presented himself or herslf at the community licensed pharmacies would be able to access holistic care and support through effective referrals.
“Survivors of Domestic Violence are encouraged to take advantage of the Speak to INU initiative, and access help at their community licensed pharmacists as such cases will be treated confidentially.”