More shelters, support coming for survivors of domestic violence

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud on Tuesday disclosed that in 2023 more shelters and support from the government will be provided to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic violence (DV).

At the sidelines of a recent event, Dr Persaud explained that the ministry is actively working to assist persons who are facing GBV or domestic violence. Among these, she said is the expansion of shelters where persons can stay and the provision of monetary assistance to those persons who would have ended an abusive relationship.

“We are working on two shelters to add to the shelters that we have in existence and we have partnership agreements with NGOs to provide shelter for persons who are experiencing domestic violence,” the Human Services Minister said.

Additionally, the government pays three months rent for domestic abuse survivors who want to end a relationship and live on their own.

The minister emphasised that support for these persons is available through the State.

“We have support mechanisms. Reporting is one aspect of it but shelter, I know you need that. We are providing that. I know you need help for your children, we are working with you on that,” she said.

Touching on the recent cases of murders stemmed from GBV and DV, Dr Persaud reminded that persons must be vigilant and observant to spot the signs of such behaviours.

“My heart goes out to every family and every person who would have lost a loved one to the hands of those perpetrators of abuse and violence. For me, every number is a big number, even if it’s one.

“I want to say if you have an inkling of this happening, you’re probably right even if it’s a suspicion and you know you can call the 914 hotline and report anonymously, let’s check it out. It might be a false alarm but it might be real,” the minister said, urging the public to make reports when they see it.

Further, the minister said, “I believe it is imperative that wherever people see it, they get into the habit of reporting it.”