BOLZANO. To better support women (and their sons and daughters) who have suffered violence, the provincial law on preventing and combating violence was approved in 2021. Since then, the Office for Child Protection and Social Inclusion has been working with partners in the anti-violence network to implement it.
The need is pressing. 760 women sought advice and support in an anti-violence center in 2023, 160 women and 152 sons and daughters (minors) were housed in residential facilities. Compared to previous years, the numbers are constantly increasing.
“These data are more than simple numbers. Because behind every number there is a destiny, there are women and children”, underlines the provincial councilor for Social Cohesion and Family, Rosmarie Pamer. They are currently in development guidelines for intervening on perpetrators of gender violence. The relevant working group held ten meetings to implement the national guidelines. The regulation is currently being reviewed by the Social Policies Division. Since January 2024, a working group has also been finalizing the guidelines for a project parenting support focused on fathers who engage in domestic violence. Furthermore, guidelines for women with experiences of violence with a migratory background have been developed. And measures to protect children who witness violence are already being implemented. Also the “Erika” protocol has been in place for several years. In this case, women who ask for “Erika” in the emergency room after having suffered violence receive immediate support in a protected environment. Pediatricians and general practitioners are specially sensitized and trained. One of the most important steps in the implementation of the provincial law is theexpansion of the Women’s Home service. This year, the service will also be activated in the communities of Oltradige-Bassa Atesina, Salto-Sciliar and Val Venosta. Specific and professional consultancy will be offered in Egna, Ortisei, Bolzano (at the Social Services headquarters in via Innsbruck) and Silandro.
The “South Tyrol keeps its eyes open” campaign is currently running throughout the province. Information on the campaign and events is available on the site
You can find support at the following toll-free numbers available 24 hours a day: GEA anti-violence center and shelter in Bolzano and Egna: 800 276 433 Anti-violence center and shelter “Women against violence” in Merano and Silandro: 800 014 008 Anti-violence center and refuge house in Bressanone: 800 601 330 Telephone availability at fixed times: Protected accommodation in Bolzano: 800 892 828 (Monday to Thursday from 8.00 to 12.30 and from 1.30 to 17.00, Friday from 8.00 to 12.30). Anti-violence center and protected accommodation in Brunico: 800 310 303 (Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 12.00).
(Photo: USP/Greta Stuefer)
What are the specific support services being offered to women and children affected by violence in Bolzano?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Rosmarie Pamer, Provincial Councilor for Social Cohesion and Family
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Rosmarie. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the significant steps being taken to combat violence against women and children in Bolzano. The numbers for 2023 are indeed alarming, with 760 women seeking support. What do these numbers represent to you beyond just statistics?
Rosmarie Pamer: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. You’re absolutely right; these numbers are not merely statistics. Behind each figure lies a unique and often tragic story. It reflects the urgent need for comprehensive support systems for women and children who have faced violence. Our mission is to understand these stories and transform them into effective interventions that truly make a difference in their lives.
Time.news Editor: That’s a poignant perspective. It seems that since the provincial law was passed in 2021, there has been a concerted effort to enhance support services. Could you tell us about the current initiatives in place, especially those aimed at supporting children who witness domestic violence?
Rosmarie Pamer: Certainly. One of our key initiatives is addressing the needs of children who are often silent witnesses to violence. We’ve implemented measures and created programs specifically tailored for them. This includes not just immediate safety, but ongoing psychological support to help them process their experiences. We are also developing guidelines that focus on the experiences of women with a migratory background as well as targeted interventions for fathers who exhibit violent behaviors.
Time.news Editor: That’s really commendable. I understand there are new guidelines being finalized for interventions on perpetrators of gender violence. Can you give us an insight into this process and why it’s important?
Rosmarie Pamer: Yes, these guidelines are crucial for breaking the cycle of violence. By addressing the root causes and behaviors of the perpetrators, we can create a holistic approach to prevention. This working group has convened multiple times to ensure that our strategies align with national standards but also cater to our local context. It’s about changing mindsets and preventing future cases of violence.
Time.news Editor: With the “Erika” protocol already in use, can you elaborate on how it works and the impact it has had since its inception?
Rosmarie Pamer: The “Erika” protocol is vital for providing immediate assistance to women in crisis. When a woman presents herself at an emergency room and uses the code word “Erika,” she is quickly placed in a protected environment where she can receive confidential support. The training we provide to pediatricians and general practitioners ensures they are sensitive to these issues and can act swiftly and appropriately. The feedback we’ve received shows that this initiative has empowered many women to seek help without fear of judgment.
Time.news Editor: That’s invaluable support. Another aspect is the expansion of the Women’s Home service into more communities. Can you explain what kind of services will be offered and the expected impact on these communities?
Rosmarie Pamer: The expansion of the Women’s Home service is a significant step forward. By reaching communities like Oltradige-Bassa Atesina, Salto-Sciliar, and Val Venosta, we’re bringing critical support closer to those who need it most. Services will include professional counseling, safety planning, and access to resources for both women and their children. Our aim is to create a safe haven and a starting point for recovery and empowerment in every community.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Rosmarie, for highlighting these crucial initiatives. It’s clear that Bolzano is taking impressive strides to combat violence and support affected families. What do you see as the next steps for this initiative as we move into 2024?
Rosmarie Pamer: As we look forward, our focus will be on continuous collaboration with community partners and refining our programs based on feedback and outcomes. We will also work on raising awareness and education around these issues, because prevention is just as important as intervention. Ultimately, we want to foster an environment where everyone understands the importance of standing against violence and feels empowered to act.
Time.news Editor: Inspirational words, indeed! Thank you for sharing your insights and the ongoing work in Bolzano. We look forward to seeing the positive outcomes from these vital initiatives.
Rosmarie Pamer: Thank you for having me. Together, we can bring about change and hope for those who need it most.