The numbers are not going down. 2,373 complaints were filed in 2021 by adult women for violence. That’s 40 more than in 2020. Half of the complaints relate to assault and battery, the other half to domestic violence. 549 complaints were filed for threats or blackmail, finally 73 requested cases of rape. Another number marks the year 2022: the two feminicides that occurred in Cavaillon and Pernes-les-Fontaines.

So to fight against this scourge, Violaine Demaret, prefect of Vaucluse, brought together the associative actors (Family planning
, Rheso…
), institutional actors such as the family allowance fund and the judicial services, this Thursday, November 24 at the prefecture of Avignon.

Lines of work

“The objective is to strengthen the network and cooperation on the Vaucluse territory”, explains Violaine Demaret. For the prefect, the emphasis is on better coordination between the different departments. But also that women allow, anywhere in the department, find a place to “free their speech” and take shelter from their attackers.

It is also necessary to increase the number of accommodation places for the victims. A few years ago there were only four in the department. Today, there are 30, i.e. 80% increase in reception capacity.

But efforts can still be made according to the prefect to welcome, not only women, but also their children who are often witnesses or victims of acts of violence. In this context, the Avignon hospital center should open a Women’s House, in the first half of 2023.

Victims but also perpetrators

Finally, when we talk about violence against women, we must not forget the perpetrators. A little over a year ago, a care center for perpetrators of domestic violence opened its doors in Carpentras. 180 perpetrators of violence against women were supported this year by the structure. The agents offer legal follow-up, but also psychological support in partnership with the Montfavet hospital. Finally, social support and reintegration are offered to avoid recurrences. Among the men benefiting from this programme, some came forward on their own because they wanted to get out of the infernal spiral of violence.

A telephone system has also been set up at the national level in 0801 90 19 11. It’s called “Don’t Knock”
and therefore addresses the perpetrators of violence.