Abuse victims on work permits get better support

People fleeing domestic abuse who are in Jersey on work permits will be offered more support as part of a shift in government policy.

In what officials described as a "significant" change, survivors can now access emergency housing and 13 weeks of financial support.

It is part of Jersey's wider action plan to tackle violence against women and girls, following a landmark report published last year.

More than half of the 77 recommendations made in that report are now under way.

Previously, some individuals on short-term permits were excluded from financial aid and housing options - a gap campaigners had long criticised as leaving victims trapped in unsafe situations.

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, said: "That change - guaranteeing 13 weeks' pay - is already making a significant difference."

She added that 42 of the 77 action points are currently in progress, with legislative reform also high on the agenda.

"We're determined to complete as many as possible by the end of the term," she said.

"The legislative changes need to be ready for debate before the next election - that's a key priority."

The government is also rolling out wider training for frontline workers, aimed at identifying early signs of abuse and coercive control.

This includes sessions for teachers, housing staff, veterinary professionals and social services - all sectors considered well-placed to spot warning signs.

"The more people trained to spot the signs, the more chance we have to intervene before abuse escalates," said Le Hegarat.

Culture change must begin early, she added, highlighting a peer-led programme in schools where older students deliver sessions about healthy relationships to younger pupils.

She also emphasised that sustainable funding is essential for victims to feel safe reporting abuse - and to ensure services remain in place.

"This can't just be a time-limited project. Ongoing funding is essential so that victims feel safe to come forward - and know support will still be there," she said.

While acknowledging that challenges remain, the government said the island's progress was "on track".

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