Domestic Violence Seminar – A Cross Cultural Focus

Domestic violence figures in Portugal show it is the second most reported crime, amounting to 8% of all crimes. Around 84% of victims are female, 16% male, with 78% of perpetrators being current or former partners.

The trend for male victims is to be subjected to psychological violence, followed by physical and sexual violence. The majority of men do not class themselves as victims as they are ashamed and feel there is nobody out there to help and nowhere to turn. The António Silva Leal Foundation in the Algarve is specifically for male victims of domestic violence and abuse, operating in much the same way as the country’s 40 shelters for women. The incidence towards male victims remains hidden, pretty much ignored by the State and of incidental interest to the general public.

After a break from face to face seminars of nearly two years due to Covid-19 restrictions, Safe Communities Portugal is are pleased to announce the first of a number of planned seminars – this first one dealing with an important subject, that of domestic violence. This is being organised jointly between SCP and Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima (APAV) Algarve.

The focus and aim of the seminar is to create greater awareness in recognising the signs and handling of domestic violence cases across different cultures. For those who deal with migrants and/or groups where cultures, language and customs maybe very different to that in Portugal, understanding their needs as victims of domestic violence and related abuse is essential.

The seminar will be held at the historic Palácio Gama Lobo, Rua de Nossa Senhora de Fátima, 8100-557, Loulé on Thursday 9th June 2022, 16:00 – 18:00 hrs.

Safe Communities Portugal are privileged to have Dr. Vitor Aleixo, Sr. Presidente da Câmara de Loulé, who will give an opening address as well as a range of speakers who have considerable local, national and/or international experience in their respective fields.

Speakers at the seminar are: Carmen Rasquete, Secretária Geral, Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima; Marta Chaves da Silva, Coordenadora Adjunta – Coordenadora Regional – Programa Nacional para a Prevenção da Violência no Ciclo de Vida – ARS Algarve; Dinita Chapagain, Associação Safe Communities Portugal; Diana Necker, Association of Romanian and Moldavian Immigrants of the Algarve (Doina) and Captain Jorge Barbosa, Guarda Nacional Republicana.
The welcoming will be by David Thomas, President Safe Communities Portugal and Júlia Cardoso APAV Algarve Regional Manager will be present as co-organiser.

The seminar will examine: Domestic violence and the impact on vulnerable people – what can the health sector do? Challenges in supporting victims of domestic violence; Understanding the diversity in culture, language, religion and customs amongst the “Indianos”, Dealing with Domestic Abuse/Human trafficking victims and Domestic violence – Police intervention.

Following the presentation there will be a panel debate and an opportunity to ask questions. The event is being held in English. Entry is free of charge and there is parking opposite the venue.

As the event is likely to be popular, reservations are required on a first come first served basis. These can be made by calling 963 725 830 (APAV) or emailing [email protected]

David Thomas – President
Safe Communities Portugal

IF YOU NEED HELP OR SUPPORT

Those in Portugal who feel at risk risk from domestic voilence, whether national, residents or visitors, do have help available:

Call the anonymous, confidential 24/7 domestic abuse helpline on 800 202 148 to speak with a trained support worker, who can inform you of your rights, give you psychological and emotional support, and guide you through the next steps.

Call the Portuguese Victim Support Association (APAV) helpline (+351) 116 006 (available Monday to Friday, 9am-9pm) for free legal advice and for emotional and psychological support.

If you need emergency assistance, call Portugal’s national emergency number 112. If you need medical treatment, go to the A&E Department of your nearest hospital or health centre.

For British passport holders, the British Consulate in Portugal is also there to help, call (+351) 21 392 4000.

AMCV – Association of Women Against Violence –  Tel No +351 213 802 165.

UMAR – Alternative Union of Women and Response –  Tel no +351 218 873 005.