Honiara, 10 December 2025 — As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), with support from the Solomon Islands–Australia Health Partnership hel a symbolic handover at the Christian Care Centre in Honiara.
At the event, Health Secretary Pauline McNeil presented 50 dignity kits to the Christian Care Centre, National Referral Hospital, and Seif Ples, demonstrating a shared commitment to supporting women in crisis and strengthening essential services that provide life-saving care, safe accommodation, and counselling.
MHMS Highlights Solidarity and Survivor-Centred Care
The Permanent Secretary of MHMS, Mrs Pauline McNeil, also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the serious and pervasive impact of violence on women and girls in the country and noting that many survivors are also members of the nation’s health workforce. She reiterated the Ministry’s responsibility to provide compassionate, confidential and survivor-centred care.
“These kits represent our support for the women who come here seeking safety, and for the incredible staff who walk beside them in their journey to recovery. Dignity and safety must be at the centre of every service we provide ensuring that their self-worth is respected, appreciated and valued.”
— Pauline McNeil, MHMS
Australia Reaffirms Commitment to Ending Violence
Speaking on behalf of Australia, Dr Tristan Armstrong, Counsellor for Human Development at the Australian High Commission, underscored the urgency of addressing violence against women and girls, describing it as a public health emergency requiring sustained action.
He highlighted Australia’s PAVE Program, launched last week by Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Hon. Anita Green, which includes a SBD 13 million investment to strengthen the work of the Christian Care Centre and Family Support Centre.
“Ending violence against women and girls requires strong partnerships, sustained investment and genuine commitment at every level. Australia is honoured to work alongside MHMS and the dedicated teams at Christian Care Centre, NRH and Seif Ples. The specialised care they provide is vital to recovery and safety, and our support — including through programs like PAVE — reflects Australia’s long-term commitment to safer, more resilient communities.”
— Dr Tristan Armstrong, Australian High Commission
Christian Care Centre Warns of Increased Risk During Festive Season
Ms Florence, Director of the Christian Care Centre, expressed gratitude for the support and raised concerns about heightened risks during Christmas:
“Christmas is a time of celebration for many families, but for us, it is also the period when we see the highest number of women coming through our doors. Increased alcohol consumption brings increased physical and sexual violence. The support we receive today is essential — it helps us continue providing care when women need us most.”
She emphasised that dignity kits offer both practical and emotional support, reinforcing the importance of dignity, empowerment and compassionate care.
A Shared Commitment to End Gender-Based Violence
The handover of dignity kits forms part of MHMS and Australia’s joint participation in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthen prevention, response and trauma-informed survivor support across the health sector.
MHMS and the Solomon Islands–Australia Partnership for Health extend appreciation to the staff of the Christian Care Centre, National Referral Hospital, and Seif Ples for their dedication, and reaffirm their commitment to continued collaboration so that women can access safe, compassionate and empowering support.
