Written by Alice Njoki
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched a new toolkit to help health workers better support children and adolescents who experience violence.
Known as the ANIMA-AA Toolkit, the resource provides practical guidance for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals on how to identify, respond to, and support young survivors of violence. The initiative aims to strengthen health systems and ensure that children receive timely care and protection when they need it most.
Violence against children remains a serious global problem. According to international data, many children experience physical, emotional, or sexual violence, often leaving long-lasting effects on their health, education, and well-being. Girls are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence, which can have severe physical, mental, social, and reproductive health consequences.
PAHO says health workers are often among the first people children meet after experiencing violence. However, many professionals lack the training and tools needed to provide the right support. The new toolkit is designed to close that gap by offering easy-to-use guidance for everyday healthcare settings, including clinics and emergency departments.
The toolkit promotes a survivor-centered approach. It encourages health workers to listen carefully, respond without judgment, identify urgent needs, improve safety, and connect children and families with appropriate services. It also provides guidance on creating child-friendly spaces and supporting caregivers.
Young people played an important role in developing the toolkit. Adolescents from several countries across the Americas shared their experiences and ideas through workshops and regional discussions. Their contributions helped ensure that children’s voices were included in shaping the resource.
PAHO hopes the ANIMA-AA Toolkit will help countries strengthen their health systems, improve early identification of violence, and provide better care and protection for children and adolescents. The organization is encouraging governments, health institutions, and partners to invest in training and services that put children’s safety and well-being first.
Violence can affect every part of a child’s life, including their physical health, mental well-being, education, and future opportunities. When healthcare workers are equipped with the right skills and tools, they can play a key role in helping children recover, stay safe, and access the support they need. The new toolkit is an important step toward creating safer environments where every child can grow up free from violence.