Break the silence” surrounding domestic abuse on the island.

Residents are being urged to make concerted efforts to “break the silence” surrounding domestic abuse on the island.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, emphasized the need for open dialogue and action, stating, “This year our focus is clear — we want to break the silence. Domestic abuse thrives in silence, in shame, and in fear.”

Her call to action comes after 133 people reported experiencing abuse last year, affecting more than 150 children. Additionally, the Bermuda Police Service receives hundreds of domestic-related calls annually.

Ms. Furbert delivered this message during a proclamation ceremony at City Hall to mark the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. She described domestic abuse as a crisis impacting families, communities, and individuals from all walks of life.

“Most times, we have no clue what someone may be going through,” she said. “Today, we make a firm commitment to challenge that silence, to empower survivors to speak out, to encourage them to seek support without fear or shame, and to hold abusers accountable for their actions.”

The minister encouraged residents to collaborate with the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Committee, which includes the Bermuda Police Service, the Department of Child and Family Services, and the ministry. She highlighted the committee’s “comprehensive unified approach” to addressing domestic abuse, ensuring survivors receive the necessary protection, services, and guidance.

In 2023, 126 women and seven men reported cases of domestic abuse, while 159 children were exposed to such violence. Reflecting on these statistics, Ms. Furbert said, “I am thinking about that child, that woman, that man who is afraid to speak up to their abuser because they are afraid of the repercussions.”

The ministry plans to continue educating people in workplaces, schools, and communities by raising awareness, fostering open dialogue, and teaching the island’s youth about healthy relationships. “We can begin to break the cycle of abuse before it starts,” she stated. “This responsibility falls on all of us — parents, teachers, employers, friends, and neighbors.”

She emphasized that the observances during this month go beyond raising awareness; they are also a call to action to address and combat the issue.

Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons reported that between 700 to 900 domestic-related calls are made to the Bermuda Police Service each year. “That’s an unacceptable number that highlights a level of harm in our community,” he said.

Acknowledging that while relationships can face challenges, Mr. Simons firmly stated that abuse or violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the Bermuda Police Service. He recognized domestic abuse as a deeply complex issue entangled with housing concerns, child welfare, financial struggles, and longstanding emotional challenges. “This is why we adopt a multi-agency approach,” he explained. “This issue is not only a law enforcement one, and it benefits from a broader perspective instead of just a law enforcement perspective.”

Mr. Simons detailed the collaborative approach taken to ensure victims receive the best possible support and guidance. Each reported domestic abuse incident is carefully reviewed by a designated officer, with senior officers providing comprehensive updates on all intimate partner abuse cases in regular briefings. This process ensures that appropriate action is taken, with special attention given to repeat victimization, and that each case receives thorough follow-up support. “I want to make this message clear,” he emphasized. “We are here to help, and we will respond quickly. Our officers are trained and instructed to be proactive whenever there is evidence of an arrestable offense.”

He concluded with a resolute message: “We are sending a strong and unambiguous message — abuse will not be tolerated.”

Charles Gosling, the Mayor of Hamilton, echoed this sentiment, stressing that domestic abuse is not a private matter. “It affects entire communities and weakens the very fabric of our society, threatening the safety and security of the most vulnerable among us,” he said. The City of Hamilton stands united in its commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse and ensuring that everyone has the right to live free from fear, harm, and intimidation.

“This month is more than just awareness,” Mr. Gosling added. “It is a call to action. We must work together to provide support, raise our voices, and build a network of care that empowers victims and holds abusers accountable.”