There are almost 700 children living in shelters in Portugal, a number that exceeds that of women who also find refuge in these spaces. This reality was highlighted by the president of the Portuguese Association for Victim Support (APAV), Maria José Almeida, during her term which is now ending.
APAV manages 17 shelters spread across the country, with capacity to host women and children in situations of domestic violence. The organization also revealed that it has assisted more than 200,000 people throughout its 34 years of existence, providing support to victims of various types of crime.
Maria José Almeida warned that, although Portugal has made significant progress in protecting victims of domestic violence, there is still much to be done. The president highlighted that the State's response needs to continue to be strengthened to ensure adequate protection for those seeking help.
The data on the high number of children in shelters highlights the intergenerational impact of domestic violence on Portuguese families, underscoring the importance of public policies that address not only direct victims but also the children who experience these situations.
