Government and UNICEF collaborate to strengthen access to child‑sensitive justice
Social workers participate in specialized court access training
Belize continues to advance a more child‑sensitive justice system with the completion of a specialized Court Access Training for fifty‑seven social workers, held from 19 - 20 February. The training led by Shanti Morrison‑Novelo, Director of the Belize Family Court, and Deborah Rogers, Chief Magistrate of Belize, was funded and supported by UNICEF as part of its ongoing work to reinforce national child protection systems.
The programme was inaugurated with a high‑level opening ceremony that underscored Belize’s strong leadership and cross‑sector collaboration in strengthening child justice.
The two‑day training combined practical sessions, mock court exercises, and direct engagement with members of the judiciary. Social workers strengthened their skills in:
- preparing accurate and comprehensive court documentation
- giving clear and confident testimony
- understanding and navigating legal procedures
These enhanced competencies will ensure that social workers are better equipped to present key information, safeguard children’s rights, and contribute to more consistent and informed decisions in court.applying child‑sensitive approaches during court interactions.
Advancing UNICEF Belize’s child protection mandate
This initiative supports UNICEF’s ongoing mission to protect children from violence, abuse, and exploitation, and to guarantee that they have access to justice that is rights‑based, sensitive to their needs, and aligned with international standards. By investing in the capacity of social workers, Belize is strengthening the foundations of a more coordinated and child‑centered protection system.
A justice system that understands and prioritizes the experiences of children ensures that every decision made is informed by strong evidence, high‑quality documentation, and a clear commitment to the best interests of the child.
As frontline professionals, social workers play a critical role in how children experience the justice system. Strengthening their skills is an investment not only in the system, but in the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every child in Belize.
