The series of classes was proposed by specialists of the Psychological Support Unit and conducted with both rotating and permanent personnel of Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs.
The aim of the classes was to develop practical skills of correct, barrier-free communication, as well as awareness of the principles of non-discrimination and respect for the dignity of every individual. In modern police work, these competencies are an integral part of professional training.
The need to актуалізувати this topic was identified during one of the meetings between university psychologists and employees who acquired disabilities as a result of combat operations.
Within the training sessions, typical service situations were modeled, including communication with a person using a wheelchair; interaction with a person with hearing impairment; and engagement with a veteran who has acquired disability status. Cadets practiced algorithms of proper address, consideration of individual needs, specifics of non-verbal contact, and maintaining professional distance without проявів excessive care.
A former serviceman of the 31st Brigade named after Major General Oleksandr Radievskyi of the National Guard of Ukraine, and currently assistant duty officer of the Service Organization Department of the university, Pavlo Adamenko, was involved in conducting the events. He shared his personal life experience, as well as the experience of his fellow servicemen and colleagues regarding communication difficulties related to acquired disability.
Pavlo Adamenko provided cadets with practical recommendations aimed at building trust, respect, and mutual understanding, as well as preventing conflicts and finding effective ways to resolve them.
Head of the Psychological Support Unit Serhii Vyshnevskyi emphasized that, in connection with the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, this topic is extremely relevant for society. Sharing his own experience of working with persons with disabilities, he drew cadets’ attention to the necessity for National Police officers to possess appropriate competencies, since their work encompasses all categories of citizens.
The moderators of the events, Alina Horodnychenko and Vladyslav Bidniak, noted the high level of interest among cadets, who actively participated in the discussions.
The practical significance of the trainings lies in developing in cadets of Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs the skills of correct, tolerant, and effective interaction, as well as increasing psychological awareness regarding communication with persons with disabilities.
The conducted classes are integrated into the broader context of upholding human rights and standards of professional ethics. The formation of a culture of barrier-free accessibility is an important component of the professional training of future police officers and meets modern requirements of law enforcement activity.
— 10