Minister Furbert On Addressing Domestic Violence
The Ministry of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors said they are “deeply concerned by the domestic violence cases across Bermuda.”
“Domestic violence is an issue that transcends gender, age, and background. It happens everywhere, behind closed doors, and there are occurrences of public displays,” said Minister Tinee Furbert.
The Government spokesperson said, “We must stand together as a community to ensure victims know they are not alone. Our Ministry has worked relentlessly to build the necessary support systems, and now, more than ever, we need to encourage victims to step forward and seek help. There is no shame in seeking support—only strength.
“Since 2021, the Ministry has implemented significant initiatives and allocated over $750,000 in grants to critical agencies to support domestic violence and provide the needed resources for victims and survivors.
“These resources include annual grants to charitable organisations, including the Centre Against Abuse and the Women’s Resource Centre.
“The formation of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference [MARAC], a 2023 Throne Speech initiative, fosters collaboration between key agencies, ensuring victims of high-risk domestic violence cases receive comprehensive, coordinated support.
“The Ministry is in the final stages of formalising a new domestic violence liaison officer position and will be offering treatment for domestic violence perpetrators.
“In 2023, the Ministry also introduced the first-ever Gender Affairs Council for Bermuda and the National Child Safeguarding Policy to strengthen protections for vulnerable children who may be impacted by domestic violence in their households.
“The Department of Financial Assistance included assistance for those affected by domestic violence as one of the areas of support for the short-term relief benefit programme, implemented in June 2024.
“The Ministry, in partnership with agencies such as the Bermuda Police Service, the Centre Against Abuse, the Women’s Resource Centre, and the One Love Foundation, remains focused on raising awareness, educating the public, training officers and offering support to all victims of domestic violence.”
Minister Furbert added, “This Government is deeply committed to ensuring that no one feels they must endure abuse in silence. We will continue to work hand in hand with our partner agencies to ensure that we create a fairer and better Bermuda for our families, where everyone feels safe, valued, and protected.”
The Government spokesperson said, “If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, reach out today:
- In emergencies, call the Bermuda Police Service at 911
- Centre Against Abuse Hotline: Call 297-8278 or email info@centreagainstabuse.bm
- Women’s Resource Centre: Call 295-3882 or email wrc@wrcbermuda.com
