Human Services Ministry updates ERC on new Family Violence Act

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU), on Friday concluded a comprehensive sensitisation session with members of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC).
Held at the ERC boardroom, the session focused on the recently enacted Family Violence Act of 2024 and the Sexual Offences Act of 2010, equipping ERC members with the legal expertise necessary to effectively address reports of violence.
The session provided in-depth analysis of the Family Violence Act of 2024, highlighting its advancements over the previous Domestic Violence Act of 1996.
Allizen Welch-Critchlow, legal pro bono manager, emphasised the session’s focus on the legal intricacies of both acts, underscoring the importance of educating essential agencies and institutions on these critical legal frameworks.
“The legal aspect of this training was seen as a very important one to incorporate into the knowledge of the ERC members. It is always important for institutions to understand the laws geared towards protecting survivors from sexual offences as well as family violence offences,” stated Welch-Critchlow.
Building upon previous sensitisation efforts initiated in November, which primarily addressed Gender-Based Violence, this session broadened its scope.
Prevention and Education Officer of the SO&DVPU Kwame Gilhuis, explained, “Violence extends beyond gender to include ethnicity. This training with the ERC specifically addressed the intersection of ethnicity and gender-based violence.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ERC Gomin Camacho, expressed gratitude for the training, recognising its vital role in capacity building.
“This training on the Family Violence Act and Sexual Offences Act is invaluable for the ERC. Our staff gained a thorough understanding of these laws and the proper procedures for reporting incidents of violence to the relevant authorities,” Camacho affirmed.
Moreover, discussions covered the legislation’s expanded scope, including protections for unmarried cohabitating couples and same-sex couples, thus extending coverage to the LGBTQI+ community.
Furthermore, the session detailed the Sexual Offences Act of 2010, encompassing key aspects such as evidence collection, bail procedures, sentencing guidelines, and the investigative process for sexual offences.
Crucially, the ERC members were informed about the Ministry’s various reporting mechanisms, including the 914 Hotline, the iMatter App, and the Survivors’ Advocate Programme, facilitating accessible and confidential reporting for survivors of violence.
This initiative reinforces the Ministry’s dedication to educating key agencies and institutions on this landmark legislation, strengthening the collective response to violence and ensuring access to justice for survivors.