EMERGENCY RESPONSE: ASSESSING & RESPONDING TO VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE MIDST OF DISASTER

NYSCADV is excited to announce a new cutting-edge training opportunity for emergency responders to learn the unique needs of domestic violence victims and domestic violence shelters during times of crisis and disaster.

On June 30 the training will be offered in Lake George through a partnership between NYSCADV; the Domestic Violence Project of Warren & Washington Counties, a program of Catholic Charities; and the Warren County Public Health Emergency Preparedness program.  Responders from throughout the region – including those at the front line, as well as those operating the agencies that respond in crises and disaster – and particularly those who respond in Warren and Washington Counties, are encouraged to attend.

BACKGROUND

This training series was developed in collaboration with the US Department of Health and Human Services Family and Youth Services Bureau, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, in response to devastating disasters experienced across the Northeast.

The aftermath of Superstorm Sandy resulted in thousands of damaged homes and businesses in New Jersey and New York, over $1 billion in property damage, and more than 100 tragic deaths. For many people, it exposed the underlying social disparities among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, people in poverty, single mothers, people with disabilities and victims of domestic violence. In addition to Sandy, many communities in New York were deeply impacted by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee, as well as significant floods, ice storms, and major snow events. Human-made tragedies like domestic violence homicides can also have long lasting and profound effects on communities.

DETAILS

Barriers experienced by victims of domestic violence in disasters become even more complex as emergency response systems, legal systems, social services, and other community resources are disrupted. Success hinges on practice, collaboration, and relationships between agencies. Training for emergency responders includes the following topics:

• Defining domestic violence, understanding the root causes, and addressing myths;
• Exploring challenges that are specific to domestic violence in crisis and disaster situations;
• Identifying patterns of abuse, power and control in relationships and families;
• Concrete ways to assess and safety plan with survivors during times of crisis and disaster; and
• Understanding compassion fatigue, the impact it has on emergency responders, and ways to sustain wellness and resilience in multiple areas of our lives.