Safer, a Guernsey charity that supports and empowers those experiencing domestic abuse, has launched its first community ‘Safer Space’ at the Guille-Alles library with help from JT.
The local telco has donated two mobile handsets with striking purple cases, the colour globally recognised as a symbol of support for domestic abuse charities, through its Community Giving scheme.
Anyone wanting to access help, can go to the Guille-Alles library and ask to use the mobile phone. The receptionist will direct them to a discreet and private space where they can make the call to Safer.
This year Safer has worked with many local businesses to create more physical Safer spaces within the community. These spaces will have purple mobiles with numbers for Safer and other support services pre-programmed, allowing victims to safely and quickly contact the charity without fear of being tracked by their abuser.
Antonia Rainbow, Training Manager at Safer explained: “When people think about domestic abuse they usually think about physical abuse in a relationship, however, it can take many forms. There is also sexual abuse, stalking and harassment, economic abuse and emotional and psychological abuse. Most victims entering the Safer service will be experiencing multiple forms of abuse so it’s vital they can contact us safely and confidently, without the perpetrator being aware.
“Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexuality. While it occurs in all types of relationships, most incidents involve men abusing women. Sadly, statistics indicate that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will face domestic abuse at some point in their lives.”
Antonia Rainbow, continued: “Alongside the phone at Guille-Alles library we are looking for a location for our second purple phone.
“Our hope is to have many more Safer spaces around the Island so that sufferers can visit without causing suspicion to their abusers. The only way we can stop domestic abuse is to talk about it and we’re really grateful to JT for joining the conversation by making this much needed donation and helping us to raise awareness.”
Pip Carpenter, Head of Consumer Markets and Community Partnerships, at JT said: “Our decision to support Safer reflects our genuine commitment to making a meaningful impact in our community. Our goal is to support the dedicated individuals who assist those in our community who are suffering silently. We believe that access to technology can significantly improve the lives of individuals in vulnerable situations by giving them a vital lifeline to seek help.’’
