Għabex, within the Foundation for the Protection of Social Services (FSWS), is a place that empowers anyone who comes for help and this is done thanks to the professionals who provide practical support, education and opportunities for personal advancement in life so that victims believe in their future and have a life of respect and dignity.
At an event to commemorate this anniversary, it became clear that this is a service of great importance that offers assistance to victims who are going through emotional, physical and sexual suffering due to domestic violence. The Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon stated that Malta has always shown importance towards working in the field of domestic violence, so much so that the first social services offered in our country were those of domestic violence and child protection, back in 1981.
“Home should serve as a safe place, not a prison or a place of torture. Therefore, anyone who is in this situation should speak up and seek support immediately. Domestic violence is in everyone’s interest, because it affects the whole of society, not just the family concerned,” stressed Minister Michael Falzon.
Parliamentary Secretary for Equality and Reforms Rebecca Buttigieg stressed that this is a time of year in which our country joins many countries around the world to continue to demonstrate its commitment against domestic violence. “This year we have given our awareness campaign a fresh and creative image to ensure that its message reaches and spreads further. We Have a Dream: A Future Without Violence is a powerful message that will help us be more supportive and helpful to all victims, through all possible means,” said Buttigieg.
The Prime Minister’s wife, Dr Lydia Abela stated that domestic violence is a serious reality that does not only affect victims, but leaves a profound impact on children, families and the entire community. She maintained that a healthy society is one that looks at respect, equality and consent as core values that must be taught from a young age so that harm is avoided in the future.
“Thanks to Għabex and its workers, we are giving hope and a safe environment for those who are ready to leave an abusive environment in order to find their voice again. Our dream for a future without violence is not just an aspiration but a national responsibility,” concluded Dr Lydia Abela.
CEO of FSWS, Alfred Grixti explained how a lot of work and emotional support is done at the Għabex shelter, in order to provide hope, determination and support that will eventually help victims get out of this abuse. Individual work on a plan for the future is also carried out. During this same conference, two informative discussions were also held by two different panels where shelters in Malta and the victims’ perspective were discussed.
Speeches were also made by Dr Davy Simons, Director of the Family Justice Centre, FJC and Board Member of the European Family Justice Centre, EFJC, while a book presentation was held by the risk assessor, Andre Mifsud.
Photos: DOI/MSPC/OPM_PS
