Domestic violence is a devastating public health issue that is especially pervasive on college campuses. The United Nations defines domestic violence as “a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner.” This abuse can be physical or emotional. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated one in four women and one in ten men have experienced violence or stalking by an intimate partner. Additionally, the American Bar Association reports that 28% of students on college campuses experience dating violence.
Domestic abuse also often goes unreported. This is particularly problematic during the COVID-19 pandemic, as some students and faculty may be learning from home or quarantining with an abuser. In fact, since the onset of the virus, there has been a global spike in domestic violence reports. Other students and faculty members may be struggling with the mental health repercussions of prior abuse. Sexual assault and domestic assault often go hand-in-hand and both necessitate community support and preventative action. The LiveSafe platform can help protect your school from domestic violence and its lasting effects by providing mental health resources, rapid communication with local authorities, and real-time two-way messaging assistance.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a valuable time to educate your community about domestic violence. Use this toolkit to increase organizational awareness and to prevent instances of domestic violence in your school.
SAFETY TOOLS
Domestic Violence Awareness Infographic provides important information regarding domestic violence in the United States. | Share this infographic via email, on social media, or on a school website to increase understanding of domestic violence. Although your school may be operating remotely, the need for these resources remains. |
Stand Up Against Domestic Violence Infographic visualizes alarming statistics about domestic violence in our communities. | Share the infographic via email, on social media, or on a school website to build awareness of domestic violence and to let students and faculty members who are victims of domestic violence know that they are not alone. |
Sexual Assault Download Posters address sexual assault awareness and prevention. Many people experiencing sexual assault are also experiencing domestic violence. | Share posters via email or social media or put printed copies in common areas to remind your community of how they can use LiveSafe to address instances of sexual assault and violence. |
“How to Submit an Incident” Video instructs users on how to report an incident like domestic violence. | Share this “How To” video with students, faculty, and staff to help teach your community how to submit tips on domestic violence and other safety and security incidents. |
TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR CAMPUS WITH LIVESAFE
- Share information with students and faculty about how LiveSafe can be used to report domestic violence and receive help and support, such as access to resources or security intervention when seeking help exiting an abusive situation. Even if your community is learning or teaching from home, they can still submit reports and receive guidance and assistance.
- Emphasize anonymous reporting capabilities on sensitive topics such as domestic violence. Individuals who anonymously report tips can still access support and resources.
- Update the Resources section of the LiveSafe Mobile App to include contact information and policies regarding domestic violence. This can include FAQs, health and legal resources, security assistance, support groups, national hotlines, etc. Keeping the Resources section updated can improve accessibility and make students feel supported and more comfortable accessing help and reporting health and safety threats.
- Share reminders on how to use LiveSafe and what resources it provides on school websites and safety communications to remind the community about the ways in which the Mobile App can help them stay safe.