Many
Syrian villages do not have health centres or clinics. Villagers’
access to health care and health information is therefore extremely
limited.
This is why the Syrian Arab Red Crescent’s community-based
first aid programme is so important, particularly to those groups
made most vulnerable by isolation and poverty. Through first
aid courses, the Red Crescent is not only making treatment available
to communities but also ensuring that vital health messages
are shared and acted upon.
The courses address the treatment of common injuries and accidents,
cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, disaster management and key
public health issues. Aimed particularly at young people, they
also cover important topics such as communication skills and
conducting health surveys.
Volunteers are trained to run their own courses, thus increasing
the number of first aid volunteers and creating a local network
of first aid support. They organise field visits to undertake
a health survey in a particular area. The results of these allow
them to determine the priorities and the most suitable means
by which to raise community health awareness.
The role of Syrian Arab Red Crescent volunteers is crucial.
Through the volunteers, villagers are learning about the importance
of clean water and safe waste disposal, and the treatment and
prevention of diarrhoea, dehydration and malnutrition. Women
are finding out about safe motherhood, vaccination and oral
hygiene for children.
The programme is integrated with other Red Crescent programmes,
including HIV/AIDS awareness and disaster management.
The reaction of the communities has been enthusiastic, with
local leaders often allowing their homes to be used by Red Crescent
volunteers to deliver health education messages. Some health
workers are also keen to take part in a first aid course.
The Syrian Arab Red Crescent aims to expand the programme to
create a strong and active first aid network across the country.
|
 |
 |
|
|
| Through
first aid courses, the Red Crescent is not only making
treatment available to communities but also ensuring that
vital health messages are shared and acted upon. (p13244)
|
|
|
|
|
|
News
