Safe Communities Portugal and APAV join forces to deal with “important subject”

A seminar in English entitled ‘Domestic Violence – A Cross Cultural Focus’ is taking place on Thursday, June 9, in Loulé, from 4pm to 6pm.

After a break from face-to-face seminars of nearly two years due to Covid-19 restrictions, Safe Communities Portugal (SCP) is holding the first of a number of seminars, this first one dealing with domestic violence. This is being organised jointly between SCP and Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima (APAV) Algarve (victim support association).

The focus and aim of the seminar are to create greater awareness in recognising the signs and handling of domestic violence cases across different cultures. For those who deal with migrants and/or groups where cultures, language and customs may be very different to those in Portugal, understanding their needs as victims of domestic violence and related abuse is essential.

The venue will be the historic Palácio Gama Lobo, located in Rua de Nossa Senhora de Fátima.

Loulé Mayor Vítor Aleixo will give an opening address and there will be a range of speakers who have local, national and/or international experience in their respective fields.

Speakers are: Carmen Rasquete, Secretary General, APAV; Marta Chaves da Silva, coordinator of the national programme for preventation against violence – ARS Algarve (regional health authority); Dinita Chapagain, SCP; Diana Necker, Association of Romanian and Moldavian Immigrants of the Algarve (Doina); and  Captain Jorge Barbosa, Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR).

David Thomas, president of SCP, will welcome the speakers and Júlia Cardoso, APAV Algarve Regional Manager, will be present as co-organiser.

The seminar will examine: Domestic violence and the impact on vulnerable people – what can the health sector do?; Challenges in supporting victims of domestic violence; Understanding the diversity in culture, language, religion and customs amongst the “Indianos”; Dealing with domestic abuse/human trafficking victims; and Domestic violence – police intervention.

Following the presentation, there will be a panel debate and an opportunity to ask questions. Entry is free and there is parking opposite the venue.

Reservations are required on a first come, first served basis.

963 725 830 (APAV) | info@safecommunitiesportugal.com