Phoenix To Launch 'Domestic Violence Help' Campaign

Press release from the City of Phoenix:

April 20, 2020

The City of Phoenix Family Advocacy Center, the Phoenix Police Department and the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence are teaming up to spread a message of hope and help for those facing dangerous situations at home. Domestic Violence Help! is a community initiative launching Monday April 20 designed to increase awareness of the many resources available to those facing domestic violence situations. The goal it to get hotline and website information so victims of domestic abuse can move forward as survivors. Why is this message so important right now in the middle of a world-wide pandemic? Domestic violence calls are on the rise. In the month of March, calls for service were up more than 5% year-over-year. The first two weeks of April, that number jumped to 15%.

While the causes of domestic violence are as varied as the individuals involved, we know the following risk factors are increasing due to COVID19:

• Stay at home orders and social isolation could put potential abusers closer to their victims
• Victims may not have access to the same network of support systems through family and friends
• Economic fears could add increased stress on both the abuser and their potential victim.
• Domestic abuse is about power and control. Abuser may use COVID19 fears to exercise control over their victims
• Victims may worry that shelters or other resources aren't available because of COVID closures—that's not true. Help is available whenever you need it.
• When the children are home, they may witness or hear harmful events which can be confusing or frightening.

The following resources are available:

• The Family Advocacy Center: 602-534-2120, 2120 N Central Ave. 2nd Floor, Phoenix
• Find a list of resources at Phoenix.gov/DomesticViolence
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800 799-SAFE (7233)
• Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence
• Remember if you can't speak you can text 911

There are steps you can take if someone you know is experiencing sexual or domestic violence. First don't be afraid to let them know you are concerned for their safety. This will help them recognize what is happening is not normal and they deserve a life free from violence.Acknowledge they are in a difficult and scary situation. Let them know the abuse is not their fault. Reassure them they are not alone.

Be supportive. Listen to them. Let them know you are available to help whenever they may need it. Don't judge them. Respect their decision rather than criticizing or trying to make them feel guilty. They need your support more than ever.

Remember you cannot rescue them. Although it is difficult to see someone you care about get hurt, they have to be the one to decide what they need to do and when.The Domestic Violence Help! campaign includes public service announcements and stories of survivors. Business partners in TV and radio will be carrying public service announcements reminding people of the available resources.

This press release was produced by the City of Phoenix. The views expressed here are the author’s own.