After a break from face to face seminars of nearly two years due to Covid-19 restrictions, Safe Communities Portugal is are pleased to announce the first of a number of planned seminars – this first one dealing with an important subject, that of domestic violence. This is being organised jointly between SCP and Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima (APAV) Algarve.

The focus and aim of the seminar is to create greater awareness in recognising the signs and handling of domestic violence cases across different cultures. For those who deal with migrants and/or groups where cultures, language and customs maybe very different to that in Portugal, understanding their needs as victims of domestic violence and related abuse is essential.

The venue will be the lovely historic Palácio Gama Lobo, Rua de Nossa Senhora de Fátima, 8100-557, Loulé.

We are privileged to have Dr. Vitor Aleixo, Sr. Presidente da Câmara de Loulé who will give an opening address as well as a range of speakers who have considerable local, national and/or international experience in their respective fields.

Our speakers are: Carmen Rasquete, Secretária Geral, Associação Portuguesa de Apoio à Vítima; Marta Chaves da Silva, Coordenadora Adjunta - Coordenadora Regional - Programa Nacional para a Prevenção da Violência no Ciclo de Vida - ARS Algarve; Dinita Chapagain, Associação Safe Communities Portugal; Diana Necker, Association of Romanian and Moldavian Immigrants of the Algarve (Doina) and Captain Jorge Barbosa, Guarda Nacional Republicana. The welcoming will be by David Thomas, President Safe Communities Portugal and Júlia Cardoso APAV Algarve Regional Manager will be present as co-organiser.

The seminar will examine: Domestic violence and the impact on vulnerable people - what can the health sector do? Challenges in supporting victims of domestic violence; Understanding the diversity in culture, language, religion and customs amongst the “Indianos”, Dealing with Domestic Abuse/Human trafficking victims and Domestic violence – Police intervention.

Following the presentation there will be a panel debate and an opportunity to ask questions. The event is being held in English. Entry is free of charge and there is parking opposite the venue.

As the event is likely to be popular, reservations are required on a first come first served basis. These can be made by calling Tel: 963 725 830 (APAV) or emailing info@safecommunitiesportugal.com