PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT Extended specialised service for vulnerable victims and victims of domestic violence in Gozo

150 people assisted in less than a year

One hundred and fifty individuals made use of the services provided by the first hub for vulnerable victims and victims of domestic violence in Gozo. Of these 150 cases, 113 and almost 75% of all cases, were brought before the courts and faced various charges. 

The centre, located in Victoria, Gozo, has been operating since 20 September 2024. It offers a range of support services and professional assistance from experts, members of the Police Force, trained workers in this field, as well as from several entities, in order to provide service and support to victims of domestic violence. This includes professionals from FSWS and the domestic violence risk assessment service.

The establishment of this first hub followed the creation of a specialised squad by the Police Force called the Gender-Based and Domestic Violence Unit in 2020, and the first hub for victims of domestic and gender-based violence in Santa Luċija in 2024. The unit is composed of trained police officers together with other professionals who provide services to victims of domestic and gender-based violence.

This hub provides a safer environment and is the first of its kind on the island of Gozo. It operates daily with the continuous presence of the Police Force and other professionals.

During a visit to the centre in Victoria, Gozo, the Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, was briefed on the procedures followed in the case of a domestic violence reports in Gozo. 

Minister Camilleri stated that in recent years focused efforts have been made to better prepare the Police Force to assist victims of domestic violence. This included the establishment of a specialised squad with professionals for the first time, as well as a tripling of human resources. Work has also been carried out with other stakeholders to ensure joint efforts. Preparations are currently underway for another hub in the north of the country, in Mtarfa. Minister Camilleri highlighted that in recent weeks the panic alarm button service was introduced by the Victim Support Agency, which operates this service together with the Police Force.

He concluded by saying that the extension of this service in Gozo demonstrates the commitment to supporting victims throughout the entire country.