Momentum Proposes Three-Point Plan to Aid Domestic Violence Survivors

In the heart of Malta, nestled in the bustling streets of Valletta, lies the Momentum Centre. Every day, this unassuming building echoes with stories of courage and resilience. Today, it’s the stage for a new act: a three-pronged proposal aimed at bolstering support for domestic violence survivors.

Malta, like many societies, grapples with domestic violence. According to the Malta Police, reports of domestic violence increased by 20% between 2019 and 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, with lockdowns trapping victims with their abusers. The Momentum Centre, Malta’s leading support service for domestic violence survivors, has seen a surge in demand for its services.

Dr. Simone Galea, Director of the Momentum Centre, paints a stark picture. “We’ve seen an increase in the severity of cases. Survivors are staying longer with their abusers due to financial constraints and fear of contagion. It’s a perfect storm.”

Momentum is proposing to expand its emergency accommodation services. Currently, the centre offers temporary shelter to around 20 individuals at a time. The proposal seeks to double this capacity, providing a safe haven for more survivors and their children.

“We need more space to accommodate survivors and their children safely,” explains Dr. Galea. “The proposed expansion will allow us to provide immediate safety and support to more families in crisis.”

Access to justice is a significant barrier for many survivors. Momentum is proposing to enhance its legal aid services, providing survivors with dedicated legal support throughout the court process.

Dr. Galea explains, “We want to ensure that survivors have access to expert legal representation. This will not only increase the chances of successful prosecutions but also provide survivors with the closure and justice they deserve.”

Financial dependence on abusers is a significant barrier to leaving abusive relationships. Momentum’s third proposal aims to address this by providing survivors with economic empowerment tools.

The programme will offer survivors vocational training, employment support, and financial literacy workshops. “Economic empowerment is key to breaking the cycle of domestic violence,” says Dr. Galea. “By providing survivors with the tools to support themselves and their children, we’re giving them the freedom to choose a safer life.”

Momentum’s proposals are a significant step forward in Malta’s fight against domestic violence. But the battle is far from over. Dr. Galea urges the public and policymakers to stand with Momentum in this fight.

“We need everyone’s support to make these proposals a reality. We need policymakers to allocate the necessary resources. We need the public to understand that domestic violence is everyone’s problem. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and build a safer Malta.”