The significant number of women victims of violence seeking assistance has prompted the Center for Support of Women (CSW) to develop specialized services tailored to their needs. With over 20 years of experience in supporting victims, we understand the critical importance of maintaining this support in light of the increasing cases of violence each year. Our SOS helpline services are instrumental in combating violence, empowering women to reclaim their strength and find pathways out of abusive situations. This ongoing commitment to providing targeted support is essential in addressing the escalating crisis of gender-based violence within our community.
Our primary beneficiaries are women who have experienced various forms of gender-based violence, while secondary beneficiaries include their children and family members. We collaborate closely with other women’s civil society organizations (CSOs) and institutions responsible for addressing gender-based violence (GBV) cases. Our partnerships with local police and Centers for Social Work are vital for effectively managing reported cases. Additionally, in instances of sexual violence, we coordinate with general hospitals, where our Centers for Victims of Sexual Violence provide comprehensive support and care.
Our services encompass psycho-social support, legal assistance, and resources for victims of gender-based, family, and partner violence, all accessible through our licensed SOS hotline. According to our six-month report from CPŽ, as of early 2024, we received a total of 116 contacts, including 77 calls to the SOS hotline and 39 interactions via our mobile application, email, and online consultations through Viber, WhatsApp, and Skype. Our outreach included 81 female clients and 3 male clients, resulting in a total of 411 support services delivered.
Furthermore, within our Centers for Victims of Sexual Violence, we reported 26 new cases and provided 205 psycho-social and psychological support services, along with 67 medical examinations. Notably, among the reported cases, 20% of victims of sexual violence were girls aged 15 to 18, 30% were Roma women and members of other national minorities, 10% were girls under 15, and 10% were women with disabilities, predominantly those with mental and intellectual disabilities. This data highlights the urgent need for targeted support and intervention for vulnerable populations in our community.
Providing psychological support to women who have experienced violence is crucial, as many often endure their pain in isolation, lacking the necessary support from their environment. Our services empower these women to report incidents of violence and help them cope with the psychological aftermath of their experiences, offering hope for a brighter future. The SOS hotline plays a vital role in delivering essential information and guidance, assisting those affected in navigating the complexities of reporting mechanisms and understanding their options. By fostering this supportive network, we strive to ensure that no woman faces her struggles alone, equipping them with the resources they need to reclaim their lives.
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