Seek Immediate Help
1. Ensure your immediate safety: Call key support contacts above stated
2. If possible, move to a safe location => trusted friend’s house, a public place or shelter
3. Identify a Domestic Violence Support Association
-Seek help from associations such as APAV, AMCV (WhatsApp support available)
4. Provide Essential Informations:
-Be ready to share: your current location (if you need immediate rescue)
-The level of danger you are in (e.g., threats, injuries)
-If you need emergency shelter or medical assistance
5. Follow Safety Advice
The association may offer:
-Emergency Shelter (AMCV - for Women, Youth and Children)
-Legal Assistance (e.g. restraining orders)
-Emotional Support & counselling
-Guidance on reporting to the police
6. Stay Connected & Get Ongoing Support
-Save the contact details of the association
-Consider joining a support group for emotional recovery
APAV
When exposed/experienced to Violence call their hotline number. Based on the extent of the danger of the situation, APAV would either instantly call the police, or call the caller back within the following hours or day to direct them to the right cabinet (office), where they would receive further assistance.
If you approached the Support Network for Migrant and Discrimination Victims (UAVMD) of APAV in Portugal after experiencing domestic or any other kind of violence, here’s how their process might support you step-by-step:
1. Initial Contact and Assessment
Reach out: You’d start by contacting UAVMD through their helpline, website, or in person at one of their locations.
Assessment by Victim Support Workers (VS Workers): During this first interaction, a trained VS Worker would assess your situation, identifying immediate needs and any urgent actions to take for your safety.
2. Legal Support
Information on Rights: You would be informed about your rights as a victim, including the right to protection, regardless of your visa or residence status.
Guidance on Legal Proceedings: They would explain the criminal proceedings, especially if you wish to file a report, and clarify each stage of the legal process.
Support for Reporting: If you decide to report the crime, they can assist with documentation, filing forms, and preparing for court if needed.
Anti-Discrimination Complaints: In case discrimination is involved, they can help you file complaints with the appropriate authorities.
3. Psychological Support
Impact Assessment: A counselor would assess how the crime has affected you emotionally and psychologically.
Counseling Services: UAVMD offers support to help manage any trauma or stress and can refer you to specialized mental health services if required.
Preventative Advice: They provide guidance to help avoid further victimization and cope with the experience.
4. Social Support
Resource Information: You’d receive information on social services and resources available, like shelters or financial aid programs.
Connection to Services: They’d help connect you to institutions best equipped to meet your specific needs, facilitating communication with them if language is a barrier.
5. Safety and Crisis Support
Emotional Crisis Support: If you’re in an emotional crisis due to the incident, a crisis support worker can provide immediate counseling.
Personal Safety Planning: To enhance your security, they can help you design a personal safety plan, including practical steps to avoid further risks.
Support in Contacting Other Organizations: For additional support, they’d assist in contacting other relevant organizations to help you overcome language or bureaucratic challenges.
6. Ongoing Follow-Up
Regular Check-ins: They may conduct regular follow-ups to see how you’re coping and provide continuous support as needed.
Referrals for Long-Term Support: If required, UAVMD can help you access long-term support services for health, housing, and legal aid.