National centre offers immediate support to victims of violence

A study published three years ago estimated that more than 80,000 people in the Grand Duchy have experienced violence. Yet three-quarters of all cases are never reported.

For many victims, especially those facing severe or complex situations, the first challenge is simply knowing where to turn. This is precisely the gap that the National Centre for Victims of Violence (CNVV), set up by the Ministry for Gender Equality and Diversity and operated by the Luxembourg Red Cross, has been filling since it opened in April.

Located in a quiet Belair neighbourhood near Place de l'Étoile, the centre is designed as a welcoming point of contact for both adults and children who have experienced violence or are unsure whether their situation counts as such. No appointment is required, no paperwork is needed, and no life-changing decisions are expected.

The first step is simply to arrive, feel safe, and speak freely without pressure.

Ashanti Berrend, who oversees the CNVV for the Luxembourg Red Cross, explained that the centre places no expectations on those who walk through the door. She stated that some visitors only want to recount what happened to them, while others may need guidance or specific information. The role staff plays is to listen, support, and point each person in the right direction according to their needs, Berrend said.

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Men are also reaching out

Between late April and late November, 120 people visited the centre, with another 80 seeking help by phone or email. Many situations involve psychological violence such as coercive control, humiliation, or social isolation. Around two-thirds of cases occur within the family or household, involving partners, ex-partners, or other relatives.

The team has also been struck by the number of men contacting the centre. Berrend stated that roughly one-third of those who seek help are men, including boys. She noted that parents often come in with their children, and staff frequently identify that the children are directly or indirectly victims of domestic violence themselves.

Further recruitment underway

A dedicated children's space filled with toys provides a safe environment for conversations involving families. Instead of sending victims from one institution to another, the professionals come to the CNVV: nurses, social workers, and a legal adviser, with psychologists soon to join the team.

Berrend explained that the centre plans to offer initial psychological support and brief therapeutic interventions to stabilise people in crisis. She also mentioned that one staff member is currently training her dog to become a certified support animal for victims.

From next spring, the service is expected to be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The aim is clear: to be available to any victim of violence, at any time.

Those seeking help can visit violence.lu or call 20601060.

Video report in Luxembourgish