"Domestic violence is visible, we no longer hide '

The new Orange House with 55 apartments for victims of domestic violence opened its doors Friday. Packing boxes, bags, toys and other belongings of the women in the houses put. In one apartment there is only one suitcase, the other sometimes be ten cardboard boxes. In most cases, it is counting the number of boxes or bags on the fingers of one hand. The new residents moved to the end of the day its all fully furnished homes.

The women who previously lived in shelters in eastern and Geuzenveld, get into the House of Orange in the halls much more privacy. They have their own apartment with one or two bedrooms, a bathroom and kitchen. "They used to live together. The emphasis was on together.Here they have their own home and not continue the hot breath of the care in their necks. They live on their own floor, the offices are downstairs, "says manager Jolanda Father of Stay Group.The concept of the new building - open and recognizable from the outside - has come over from America.

Visible
The property, which is owned by housing association The Alliance is also applied a new reception method. Father: "Domestic violence should be visible. We will not hide anymore.Therefore it is written in large letters Orange House on the facade. "

Previously, the women sat in secret locations that were only known to taxi drivers. "That security was an illusion. The man went crazy and foolish looking for his wife. When he looked good, he loved her anyway. We are now public, but really do not naive. We are protected and make appointments with both men and women. "

Where possible, the perpetrator of domestic violence involved in the relief effort. "The man immediately called his wife and possibly his children are taken care of. He is directly involved in the relief efforts, even if the woman does not want to return to him. We also want to hear his side of the story. After all, he has often children. And for the woman who has to deal with domestic violence, it is also good. Violence is a dynamic between two people. It may be that they are choosing a new partner who abuses her. All issues are on the table here. The great promises of the man and pulling his wife to return. "

New method
In the old houses remain turned many women (approximately forty percent) from the shelter to return to their partner. The first Orange House opened in 2011 in Alkmaar, shows that play the new method. Only twenty percent of women goes back to the partner. Three quarters of women are living independently. A whopping 87 percent of clients said that the violence has stopped.

In 2017 a third Orange House will be opened in Almere.

(By: Hanne Loes Pen) Parool / © Dingena Mol