In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Global Network of Women’s Shelters (GNWS) will be hosting weekly webinars to share lessons learned and best practices from around the globe. Weekly webinars will be scheduled at different times to accommodate different time zones.
The COVID-19 outbreak has presented multiple challenges for organizations working with victims of gender-based violence, including ensuring the safety of staff and victims, supporting victims using digital services, helping staff work remotely, and providing adequate resources in shelter. In addition, as families are being told to stay at home, women and children who are vulnerable to domestic abuse will be at greater risk. Survivors of sexual and domestic violence need support, even while many communities are using physical distancing to reduce the spread of the virus.
In this webinar, the US National Network to End Domestic Violence, WESNET Australia, and safetyNed from the Netherlands will share strategies for using technology to support victims during a public health crisis. Topics of discussion will include:
- Digital platforms to continue providing services,
- Translating advocacy skills into digital services,
- Protecting victim confidentiality, and
- Security for digital services
