IN an effort to strengthening its team’s morale and create a safe space for employees to share their thoughts on topics commonly considered taboo, Sandals South Coast continued its monthly panel discussion dubbed ‘Crocs Talk’, recently with the topic ‘Men can’t be abused by their women’.

The event, which is held in the staff restaurant during lunch sessions, encourages team members to engage in open and candid dialogue while enjoying their meals.

The latest staging of Crocs Talk saw several team members turning out to share their views with a panel featuring Detective Sergeant Kadine Berry of the Savanna-la-Mar police, and Jamelia Henry-Levy, counsellor from the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation, Savanna-la-Mar.

The discussion focused on the different forms of abuse faced by men, including emotional, psychological, physical, and financial, and emphasised the importance of providing support and resources to male victims.

Highlighting the under-reporting of abuse cases involving men in Westmoreland, Berry noted that societal expectations often discourage men from coming forward.

“Men tend to suffer in silence because they fear being judged or ridiculed. This stigma is something we need to address. Men, if you are being abused, tell someone as this is the beginning of your healing process,” said the detective sergeant.

She was supported by Henry-Levy who pointed out that abuse is not about gender.

“We must see each other as humans first. We must create safe spaces for all victims, regardless of their gender, to seek help and break free from abusive relationships,” said Henry-Levy.

Following the panel’s presentation, the floor was opened to team members who shared their beliefs and concerns, fostering an interactive and eye-opening conversation.

The Crocs Talk series at Sandals South Coast continues to empower its employees by addressing topics that challenge traditional norms, stimulate dialogue, and foster a culture of awareness and understanding.