Violence to Calpe women possibly the tip of an iceberg

FIFTY-ONE women in Calpe have reported personal violence to the authorities, but with the fear that this figure could be much higher, the council has employed an equality agent and a psychologist to join the legal adviser in the department of equality.

Many victims have stated that they have not reported violence for fear of repercussions, according to the council.

The psychologist will offer personalised care both to women in general and in particular, victims of domestic violence.

The legal adviser, who in addition to advising in the generic field (family, civil, criminal, etc.), will advise specifically in the field of gender violence.

In addition, the role of the agent will include socio-professional, professional and training guidance for women, information and advice on gender violence, the design of actions and campaigns to promote women's associations and, in general, design and evaluate policies of equal opportunities and positive actions to consolidate the equal participation of men and women in any social, political, economic, cultural and work environment.

A self-esteem workshop will be launched aimed at a group of women who use social welfare, where the empowerment of women is worked in such a way that personal well-being leads to an improvement in the situation in the workplace and family. This initiative is funded by grants received under the state in the fight against gender violence.

As well as the free legal advice offered to victims of gender violence, individual cases can also be referred to specialised services or associations, where mediation or other guidance can be provided.

With an all-round service, this now means the department of equality can offer a complete provision for victims, from medical to legal assistance, and it is hoped more victims will be encouraged to report violence, although they may still remain in the care of the council if they do not wish to file a complaint.

The department of equality is located at 36 Llibertat Street, Calpe, and the telephone number is 965 835 111. In addition, the generic telephone number for advice regarding gender violence is 016.