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Description
Despite the alarming extent of the sexual violence in the Czech Republic, there is no functional support system to its victims, enough of specialized services, nor adequately trained specialists. According to the Council of Europe recommendations, there should be a network of specialised centers providing complex support to victims of sexual violence in each region. There is no such center in the Czech Republic so far (Gender Equality Strategy for the years 2021-2030).
The project will create a unique Center for victims of sexual violence (and victims of domestic violence and other forms of sexualized gender-based violence), which will provide them with a complex range of specialized services leading to adequate help and support. In the Center, victims could use social services, legal counselling, psychotherapy, special interrogation room and basic medical treatment (including collecting evidence). We will initiate and strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation and education of the helping professionals (especially in trauma-informed approach), which will reduce the risk of secondary victimisation and improve the interconnection of helping institutions. We will strive to connect the Center and its services to the system of financial support. To ensure the highest possible quality and efficiency of provided services, the Center will be evaluated and changed accordingly so the Center could be a good-practice inspiration for similar services. We will include awareness-raising activities aimed at the general public to detabuate this topic and educate on means of support. Timely and high-quality assistance provided in the Center will reduce the negative effects of trauma and stigmatization of victims. It will empower them and help them to exercise their rights. Thus the Centre will contribute to the quality of their lives.
The Borough of Prague 2 and Crisis and Incest Center in Fredrikstad (Norway) are cooperating on this project.