The new definition of domestic violence and abuse now states: Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behavior, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.
Here is Gloucester, Camden and Cumberland Counties we are lucky to have 24-hour hotlines to answer calls about DV. Callers may be requesting services for someone abused, finding safe housing for someone needing immediate shelter from an abuser, requesting assistance in filing a Temporary Restraining Order, or asking for someone to be at the court while the victim is testifying for the restraining order. (SERV does not provide legal services.) Other services offered are free counseling for a victim of DV and free counseling for a child who has been living in a house where there was Domestic Violence. The abuser must no longer be in the household.
Trained volunteers meet victims of DV in local police stations and inform victims of the various services that are available to them. In cases of a serious form of DV like non-fatal strangulation, a victim may be met at a hospital. Trained volunteers also meet victims of sexual assault in the hospital.
Non-fatal strangulation (NFS) occurs when pressure is applied to the neck, restricting oxygen to the brain and potentially causing serious injury or death, even if no visible marks are present. It can happen with hands, forearms, or objects, and it’s a common but often hidden form of violence in relationships. NFS can lead to brain damage, strokes, swallowing/speaking problems, and mental health issues, so seeking medical and support services is crucial for survivors. If you know of someone who was the victim of NFS it is very important to have them go to the hospital immediately.
If anyone is interested is taking the 60-hour training, contact Linda Marple. The first and last sessions are live and the rest is online.
This month we will be collecting cash or $25 WAWA gift certificates. If enough cash is collected, we will purchase $95 Visa cards for women arriving at the shelter with only the clothes on their backs. Thank you all for your continuing support of these women in need.
The telephone number of the Gloucester County SERV hot-line is: 866.295.7378.