According to study by Prof. Beata Gruszczyńska from the Institute of Justice more than 700 thousand women in Poland experience sexual and physical violence yearly. The analysis of data available in Poland demonstrates that only 30% of women experiencing violence from their partner report it. Victims of violence lack legal knowledge and access to free specialized assistance, especially long-term. Organisation’s, research and case analysis demonstrate lack of knowledge, genuine assistance and protection in the institutions that have the obligation to take care of rape victims, and prevalence of stereotypes that cast blame on the victims of violence for what has happened to them.
The aim was to support women experiencing violence by offering direct assistance, information and education measures.
Thanks to the project 130 women, who have experienced violence received direct support, and about 400 people took part in the informational and educational activities.
A hotline for women – victims of violence has been launched (800 notifications), legal advice was provided in 360 and psychological assistance in 160 cases, 30 support group meeting were organised for about 15 persons. WenDo workshops for women and girls (120 people) and training courses on stereotypes and gender-based violence for people working with victims of violence (86 people) were organised. One radio spot, 4 videos and one spot on the “rape culture” (67 thousand YouTube views) were made. A debate with the representatives from the Norwegian partner organisation was organised. A manual for women experiencing violence and a publication covering the most interesting debates were published. Women experiencing violence participated in a social action (One Billion Rising).
The partner organisation has provided consultation on combating and counteracting violence against women and on working with women experiencing violence; and has organised a study visit and participated in a debate