However, they were all in Draguignan, yesterday, to sign the agreement allowing the opening of a fundamental service at the Dracénie Hospital Center. The Children at Risk Pediatric Reception Unit (UAPED) aims to simplify the care of victims of domestic violence. This, by bringing together medical, psychological and legal procedures in the same place.
Thus, minor victims no longer have to be interviewed at the police station.
“A place of support that comes to them. And no longer a victim who is desperately looking for help”explains Caroline Chassin, director of the hospital.
Three seconded doctors
A first in the region, supported by the Dr Pauline Vignoles, Head of the Women, Mother and Child division. She explains: “As soon as the child is able to speak and recount the supposed facts of domestic violence, the justice services will requisition the premises of the UAPED. They will proceed to the hearing on the spot, which will be filmed so as not to he has to repeat himself.”
Upon arrival, the child is greeted by a caregiver to reassure him and explain the interview process. “If the facts he reports reveal the need for a medical examination, the unit schedules an emergency appointment with a forensic doctor, gynecologist or pediatrician, for example. The child can then leave the premises accompanied by social services.
Three doctors, including Dr.r Pauline Vignoles, are seconded to the unit, as well as a secretary and a nurse to carry out reception. The device thus allows a total and rapid support of the victims.
Local associations on deck
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“The first unit of this type was set up in 1999 in Béziers. In total, France has 72”explains M.e Lauren Pizzio, lawyer for the association La voix de l’enfant, signatory and creator of the program. The entire territory covered by the Draguignan court benefits from this new legal medicine tool. The Dr Pauline Vignoles also states: “We know that the court teams are allies in developing this essential support and we will be there to meet the needs of victims and investigators.”
This project, matured over two years, won the call for projects from the Regional Health Agency, which is the main financial contribution. “But it is also thanks to local associations that we were able to achieve our goals”says Mr.e Lauren Pizzio. Like, among others, the Club soroptimiste and the Eléonores de Provence thanks to fundraisers, materials. “All the actors of the territory have mobilized. It’s a victory! All that remains is to make the unit sustainable”she concludes.
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