A new hotline 1 (800) 744-3629, is now available for people who need advice on reporting cases of abuse and domestic violence

A new hotline 1 (800) 744-3629, is now available for people who need advice on reporting cases of abuse and domestic violence. The hotline is aimed at giving victims the courage to face their situation, and do something about. The hotline is toll-free and is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The Hotline is made available through the collaborative efforts of the Dominica National Council of Women (DNCW), and Lifeline Ministries, and is funded by the ‘Canadian Fund for Local Initiative’.
 
Director of Lifeline Ministries, Tina Alexander, who made the announcement on Tuesday 8th March 2016, stated that the calls will be forwarded to the official responders. According to Mrs Alexander, all the responders have been trained to help with up to date information about both government services, as well as those offered by non-governmental organizations (NGO’s).
 
“We also have information on counselors, victim support groups and we can direct you to Crime Stoppers for anonymous tips and explain the process for reporting to the police or Welfare,” Mrs Alexander informed. She noted that all the responders report to a qualified supervisor, either a counselor or a social worker, who will ensure that the response is done in a professional and confidential manner.
 
Mrs Alexander also assured that the responders “won’t put any information on the internet”. The project included seven public meetings with community members in Portsmouth, Salybia, Mero, Roseau, Grand Bay, La Plaine and Marigot.
 
“We have shared information about recognizing the signs of abuse, reporting cases of abuse and recovering from abuse. We consulted over two hundred nurses, teachers, pastors, parents and survivors and we have come up with a brochure based on those discussions,” she informed.
 
Mrs Alexander added that the project also funded some improvements to the facility at DNCW, so that the support groups in training, could be better hosted in confidential surroundings.