Training in psychosocial support: experience of the psychological service of the Fire rescue service of the Czech Republic
Abstract
In the wake of recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic or war conflict in Ukraine, there is a growing need not only for professionals to be equipped with the skills and information to to fulfil the needs of psychological support in challenging situations. The Fire Rescue Service of the Czech Republic (FRS CR) has over ten years of experience in training officers and employees in psychosocial support.
Established education system allows trained firefighters to become members of the post-trauma care team and provide direct care for people affected by emergencies. The FRS CR collaborates with other Czech security forces to reflect on the latest approaches in dealing with challenging events and stress.
They also developed standards for psychosocial crisis support to regulate the organization and coordination of support during major disasters. This experience can be useful as guidelines for other professionals and organizations interested in providing psychosocial support education.