During the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers and activists of domestic violence prevention saw a decline in the number of people reaching out for help. As a result, Northeastern researchers at the Domestic Violence Institute developed a new technology for people experiencing domestic violence, especially for those that have been stuck at home, potentially with abusers for the past 2 years.
The DVI Legal Clinic offers “free, voluntary, and confidential,” services, and is operating virtually. Director of the Domestic Violence Institute, Dr. Margo Lindauer (Associate Clinical Professor of Law; Director of Clinical Programs; Member of the WGSS Executive Committee) states that the pandemic has affected many resources such as stable housing, access to childcare and healthcare, and employment which are all essential for those seeking to leave abusive relationships. Technology like this, which meets domestic violence survivors where they are, is more imperative than ever.
“Even before the pandemic, traditional forms of service lagged behind the needs of people experiencing domestic abuse. Now, services aren’t even open to the same capacity as they were two years ago, and the issue has not disappeared.”
Dr. Margo Lindauer for News@Northeastern
Read more about this new initiative here, and the several resources available to those who may be experiencing domestic abuse within the Northeastern community here. Also, make sure to take a look at the DVI Legal Clinic here.
