“SAFE HOUSE” OPENED IN PALILULA
23.08.2011
In the presence of management of the city, Palilula Municipality, organizations and institutions, the first regional safe house in this part of Serbia, was opened by Rasim Ljajic, Minister of Labour and Social Policy. On this occasion, Ljajic said that violence against women and children is on the rise and that the strategy to reduce violence be adopted in late September. “Since 2005th, when a record is kept, violence against children has increased by 46 percent, six and half times greater violence against adults, primarily women. Every other woman is exposed to psychological violence, physical every third and every fourth woman is threatened by violence – said Ljajic. He said 90 percent of bullies are partners and overall data on domestic violence have to worry.

The main objectives of the strategy to reduce violence prevention, tougher sentencing policy, networking of all institutions dealing with these issues, assistance to victims, their rehabilitation, social reintegration and independence as well as working with perpetrators of violence.

Construction work on the Safe House began two and half years ago, the funds were provided by donors. Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has allocated one million dinars, the company, “Philip Morris” 1.3 million, OTP Bank and “Msje Bricolage” helped with the 500,000 RSD in cash and supplies. Working women in the bank “ Societe Generale” gave up this year of eight March` gifts and cocktails, and the funds paid for the completion of the Safe House. Guarantee of funding the Safe House is Assembly of City of Nis, which members adopted founding document and made decision on the election of management of this institution. With help of Bar Chamber in Nis to the victims will be provided free legal assistance.

According to member of City Council Dusica Davidovic, the surface of the Safe House is 388 square meters and at any time, can accommodate 25 women with children. Earlier this week, moved into a new facility to 11 women and eight children, who have until now been housed in shelters for women and children.