Helping the Helpers – Psychosocial Support for Volunteers Involved in Challenging Missions

Room: Elias Blix

09:00 - 09:45

Moderator: Carl-Fredrik Donjem, North Norwegian Health Authority

Description: Organized and unorganized volunteers who contribute to emergency response efforts may face exposure to traumatic events, chaos, uncertainty, and potential high risks. What are the unique challenges and opportunities associated with providing support to helpers in local communities in the Arctic? The Norwegian Red Cross offers insights into their methods, experiences, and lessons learned in delivering psychosocial support to volunteers and employees who have participated in demanding missions or have been exposed to challenging incidents.

  • Speaker: Ellen Rykkja Gilbert, Norwegian Red Cross

Speakers

Ellen (Rykkja) Gilbert

Affiliation: Norwegian Red Cross

Bio: Ellen Gilbert is the team leader for Health Preparedness and Protection in the domestic department at the Norwegian Red Cross. Gilbert has more than 10 years of experience in the field of psychosocial support and protection both nationally and internationally. She has a particular interest in the care of volunteers and staff that have contributed to emergency response.