In an effort to provide a safe haven for those suffering from intrafamily violence, Flanders has launched a revolutionary initiative: the Safe Houses.
These houses serve as a haven where victims can find help and support in the midst of their difficulties.
What exactly are these Safe Houses and how do they help combat domestic violence?
The Birth of Safe Houses
By the end of 2023, no fewer than five new Safe Houses were opened in Ostend, Kortrijk, Halle, Leuven and Ghent, in addition to the already existing Family Justice Centers in Antwerp, Geel, Hasselt and Mechelen, which were renamed Safe Houses.
These houses are no ordinary shelters; they bring together a wide range of professionals, including representatives of the police, justice, social workers and local authorities.
All with one common goal: to provide victims of intrafamily violence with the best possible support.
A Legal Framework
In order to anchor these Safe Houses more firmly in legislation, the Flemish decree maker recently adopted a legal definition for what constitutes a Safe House.
This definition includes a regional network organization with a multidisciplinary team of professionals led by a coordinator.
Key partners include the Justice and Enforcement Agency, local governments, the Agency for Growing Up, centers for general welfare work and child abuse trust centers.
The Purpose and Assignments
The primary goal of a Safe House is to address intrafamily violence in a sustainable, coordinated and effective manner through optimal cooperation between different services.
Each Safe House has some minimum tasks to be performed, such as jointly addressing serious cases of intrafamily violence, coordinating this approach, making risk assessments and filing, and providing advice and consultation to professionals.
Local Impact
In addition to these minimum tasks, there is room for local emphases so that each Safe House can adapt to the specific needs of their region.
This ensures that victims everywhere have access to a uniform basic offer of help and support.
The Beginning of A New Era
With the establishment of Safe Houses in every judicial district, an important step is being taken in the fight against intrafamily violence.
With close cooperation between various agencies and a focus on providing help to victims, these Safe Houses offer not only a safe place, but also a glimmer of hope in dark times.
Conclusion
It is clear that the introduction of Safe Houses represents a positive change in the approach to intrafamily violence in Flanders.
With a strong legal basis and a clear focus on cooperation and support, these houses offer a ray of hope for those who need it most.
As a society, our task is to support these initiatives and strive for a future where domestic violence is a thing of the past.
Are you a victim or perpetrator of intrafamily violence, we are available as family law attorneys. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
