HEROES

Best practices guidelines for trauma bonding identification protocol

The challenge of trauma bonding is addressed through a comprehensive and action-oriented approach. The proposed solution focuses on breaking the traumatic bond that binds victims to their abusers by providing educational and emotional tools that empower victims. Through awareness programs, victims can learn to identify signs of abuse at early stages, recognize what a healthy relationship entails, and receive support in developing a personal safety plan. This approach facilitates a safe transition out of the abusive relationship, helping victims to regain their emotional autonomy and rebuild their lives in a safer, healthier environment.

The aim is not only to offer a way out, but also to create a support network that reinforces their well-being and promotes long-term prevention.

Partner: CWCS

Guidelines of awareness and victim’s assistance resources addressing to governments and stakeholders to follow on investigation and prosecution

Comprehensive care for victims of Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (CSEA) and other forms of abuse requires the implementation of Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs), as highlighted by international best practices. These teams are essential for conducting proper investigations, providing medical and legal care, and supporting the healing process for victims. However, establishing an effective MDT can be challenging, requiring strong collaboration, a well-defined structure, and dedicated resources.

To address this need, the protocol developed by ICMEC CH provides an adaptable framework that allows any country or organization to establish or strengthen its own MDT. This protocol is designed to be customizable, ensuring that it efficiently meets the specific needs of each context.

Partner: ICMEC

E-learning-based training programs for passenger transport personnel addressing to identification and assistance possible THB and CSA/CSE victims

Raising awareness and training transportation personnel are fundamental for identifying and understanding human trafficking. Although there is some training available in this area, a clear need has been identified to provide accessible and engaging training that enables these professionals to recognize the indicators of this issue.

With this in mind, an e-learning course has been developed specifically designed to raise awareness and train transportation personnel. This course is available for free online on the HEROES website, allowing participants to access valuable resources from anywhere.

Partner: TRI

Manual for Early Identification of Potential Victims of Trafficking in Human Beings, Child Sexual Abuse and Child Sexual Exploitation

The main objective of the Manual is to strengthen the capacities of the frontline responders and other relevant pr actitioners to early identify and refer potential and actual cases of THB and CSA/E to adequate services by expanding their knowledge and skills to proactively use practical tools (indicators) and techniques in their daily work.

Partner: ICMPD

White paper on promising practices regarding the treatment of victims during criminal proceedings: Examples from the HEROES project

This white paper lists recurrent barriers and remedies regarding the treatment of victims of trafficking in human beings (THB) and child sexual abuse/exploitation (CSA/E) during criminal proceedings. Based on targeted research conducted in Brazil, Bulgaria, Greece, Peru and Spain, the paper identifies and analyses inadequate procedures, and suggests promising practices with regard to the treatment of victims in criminal proceedings.