Deputy Mayor Olena Paramonova has held a working meeting with the representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Ukraine Carolina Lindholm Billing. They visited a social services center, a shelter and discussed a system of intersectoral interaction in solving problems of domestic violence.
Many projects have been implemented in Mariupol with the financial support of the UNHCR since 2014. These were projects both to meet basic needs and to build community resilience. One of the results of cooperation with UNHCR was the creation of a shelter – a shelter for women victims of domestic violence. The building was reconstructed, the premises were repaired, the green zone was landscaped and a playground was installed. The necessary household appliances were also purchased. There is a video surveillance for the safety of residents. In addition, information points were opened in the center of social services.
‘For several years of fruitful cooperation, a lot of important projects have been implemented in Mariupol. Statistics show that citizens’ confidence in social services has increased. They get the support they need. This helped bring domestic violence out of the shadows. It is important for us to continue development of this direction. It is important to exchange experience among social workers and conduct professional trainings to improve their qualifications,’ Olena Paramonova said.
A comprehensive support system has been built for people who have suffered from domestic violence, which includes identifying victims, providing psychological, social assistance and prevention in Mariupol. In addition, if a victim of domestic or gender-based violence needs a shelter, you can use the services of a shelter for free – a safe place for temporary stay. It was opened at the end of 2017. Up to 10 women with children can live in it at the same time. Women and children who have been victims of violence can stay in a crisis center for up 90 days. During this time, they receive social, psychological and legal assistance.
In order to break the cycle of domestic violence, with the support of specialists in the field of social work, women learn financial independence, restore social ties, take part in rehabilitation programs and find work and a place to live. Shelter services are free of charge. Financing is fully provided from the local budget.
