Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22Providing a single point of contact… The returning hostage is likely to be overwhelmed and struggle to retain information. You can help their immediate transition by offering them a single point of contact to simplify communication. As well as minimising stress for the individual, it will also help your organisation to better understand what they need and ensure they are receiving the necessary support as one person will have an overview. Make the individual aware of their situation in relation to salary and benefits. A lack of clarity will create uncertainty that could increase stress and worry further. As they may struggle to retain information, you might need to repeat this and other pieces of key information a number of times. Follow up in writing, too. Some organisations might not be able to ensure these benefits indefinitely. If a formal end date of employment or return to work is approaching, have an open discussion in a personal way through the nominated point of contact. It will help to keep the timelines as open and long as possible. Looking after medical needs and wellbeing… It is essential that all hostages receive a full medical check up after their release, even if they have only been held for a short period of time. They may be suffering from malnutrition or muscle wastage, they may have picked up bugs or tropical diseases, and they may have been sexually assaulted. They should also see a dentist to deal with any dental problems. Many hostages neglect their health and leave it too late to get checked out. Arrange a medical examination and encourage them to see their local GP. Some hostages may need assistance to cope with the psychological impacts of their captivity. You should arrange for them to be assessed a few days after their return and again one and three months later. Hostage UK can offer contacts for experienced professionals. While assessments are important, do not assume that the hostage will need counselling or similar medical treatment. Many people recover through self help without any expert intervention. Be clear about what ongoing medical care and counselling you are able to provide. Ensure you follow up with this information in writing. While most people who require treatment respond well, some may need treatment for an extended period of time. Be responsive to the individual. Support should be offered for as long as it is needed. Handling the debrief process… Having survived something like a kidnapping, it can be useful for the returning hostage to take part in a debrief to help them to understand what was done for them by the crisis management team and others. The debrief may also allow closure for family members. If there was a group of people directly involved in the incident, consider bringing together this group separately so they can talk together and share their experiences. Filling the information gaps can be very useful for those involved. Ahead of their return to work… Try to shield the returning hostage from too many well-meaning senior staff and colleagues. Some hostages have talked about being inundated with messages and visits from senior executives, even while they were in hospital. This can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. It is important that the returning hostage makes decisions about who to see and when. 9