Hurricane Ernesto bring increased reports of abuse
August 23, 2024
Women’s Resource Centre Responds to Increase in Domestic Abuse Reports Following Hurricane Ernesto
The Women’s Resource Centre (WRC) echoes the concern expressed by the Commissioner of Police regarding the rise in domestic abuse reports during and following Hurricane Ernesto. The storm's aftermath saw a disturbing spike in reports of domestic abuse, highlighting a pattern we have observed during times of crisis when families are forced into prolonged periods of close quarters.
This statement from Commissioner Simons underscores what we continue to observe as a major community and public health issue, one that disproportionately affects women.
Juanae Crockwell, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Centre, stated:
“Between January and June 2024, the WRC received a total of 33 domestic abuse-related inquiries—representing just under 80% of the total domestic abuse-related inquiries we handled during the entire year of 2023. This alarming statistic reflects two critical trends in our community: firstly, that domestic abuse continues to be a pervasive issue in Bermuda, and secondly, that more women are taking the brave step to report their abuse and seek support.”
The rising number of reports reminds us of the persistent nature of domestic abuse in our community and the importance of a coordinated, community-wide response to support those in need.
Ms. Crockwell continued:
“If we are going to encourage people to report instances of abuse, we must also ensure that practical and tangible support services are in place to respond in a crisis and provide ongoing care. Victims require continued support—legal, emotional, financial, and practical—to navigate the complexities of leaving an abusive situation, particularly in the context of Bermuda’s current economic and housing challenges.
These challenges are both a cause and consequence of domestic abuse and directly relate to the rise in reports that we are seeing today.”
The Women’s Resource Centre is committed to supporting victims, and one way we do this is by raising awareness of the gaps in the continuum of care that present huge challenges for them.
We join the Commissioner of Police in urging those affected by domestic abuse to seek help; however, we acknowledge that systemic issues often become barriers for victims. Most pressing is the fact that Bermuda currently lacks designated safe housing for women and children affected by domestic abuse, a significant challenge for agencies like ours striving to provide holistic and ongoing support. That is something we need to address with urgency.
“Over the past five years, we can easily recall three fatal incidences of domestic abuse against women in Bermuda. That is three too many, and we must begin to discuss this issue in its wider context if we are to seriously tackle it.”
While the Women’s Resource Centre is not a crisis intervention organisation, we do offer a range of support services for victims of abuse, including counselling, legal advocacy, and hardship assistance. We provide a safe and confidential environment, and we are committed to walking alongside survivors every step of the way, ensuring they are not alone in their journey.
For more information about our services or to speak with someone confidentially, please call us at 295-3882 or visit our website at www.wrcbermuda.com for more information.
About the Women’s Resource Centre
The Women’s Resource Centre is Bermuda’s leading advocacy and support organization for women. Our mission is to enhance the lives of women by providing them with the resources, education, and support they need to create safe, healthy, and self-sufficient lives. We offer a range of services, including counselling, legal advocacy, and educational programs designed to empower women and support their well-being.