Priority To Be Placed on Promoting Mental and Emotional Well-being for Practitioners in the Justice Sector
The Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions (CAJS) recognizes the importance of addressing the mental health needs of those in the justice sector, who often deal with high-stress and traumatic situations.
CAJS announced the launch of its Health and Wellness Unit at the biennial meeting of the Organization of Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations (OCCBA) on January 28. The unit was established to promote and support the mental and emotional well-being of practitioners in the justice sector, including judicial officers, lawyers, law enforcement, and public safety workers.
“The launch of this new unit is a significant step towards addressing the mental health needs of practitioners in the justice sector,” said Bevil Wooding, Executive Director of CAJS. “We must ensure that those who serve our communities have the support and resources they need to maintain their own well-being and continue to serve with integrity and compassion.”
The Health and Wellness Unit will provide research, resources, and strategies to support the well-being of these professionals and promote a culture of self-care and resilience.
Ms. Emma Tuletta, a clinical psychologist and head of the new Unit, said, “The CAJS Health and Wellness Unit will provide a range of evidence-based solutions to support the mental health and well-being of justice sector professionals, including counseling, therapy, workshops, and training programs. We believe that by promoting self-care and standards for personal and corporate wellness, we can create a more effective and compassionate justice system.”
Dr. Osafo Fraser, a medical doctor and Special Advisor to the CAJS Health and Wellness Unit, said, “Research is essential in defining appropriate interventions for health and wellness in the legal profession. Our new unit will be conducting a series of tailored and continuous studies, so that we can gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by legal practitioners and identify effective strategies for addressing these challenges. Our goal is to design and implement health and wellness programs that reflect the cultural realities, professional priorities and common needs of practitioners.”
The Hon. Justice Adrian Saunders, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice, commended the new unit, saying, “The Caribbean Court of Justice supports the efforts of the Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions to promote the well-being of justice sector professionals. The mental health and well-being of those who serve in the justice system is essential to maintaining a fair, impartial, and effective justice system.”
Ruggles Ferguson, President of the Organization of Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations, said, “The Commonwealth Caribbean Bar Associations fully support the launch of the Health and Wellness Unit. We recognize the importance of addressing the mental health needs of lawyers and other practitioners in the justice sector. This new unit will provide much-needed support and resources to promote self-care and resilience.”
The CAJS is committed to improving the well-being of practitioners in the justice sector and is excited to launch this new unit to support this important cause.