Presentations on identifying violence and making referrals are offered to court staff, legal staff, hospital staff, churches, civic groups and other helping organizations. Independence House works with the police to train officers on the battering cycle and options available to battered women. We work with schools to prevent abuse by educating students on dating violence, sexual assault and sexual harassment. Independence House participates on many local and state-wide task forces and committees working to improve community response to critical issues which also affect battered women including health care, housing, hospital services, legal services, drug and alcohol services, child abuse and child care. A 24-hour hotline provides immediate response to any physical or emotional crisis as a result of abuse or sexual assault.
Advocates can arrange for emergency shelter, police protection or medical care.
The hotline is staffed 365 days a year, weekends and holidays. Individuals may also meet with advocates in person to discuss their circumstances, learn more about service options, or ask about the nature of violence or sexual assault. Services are provided to help develop long-range safety plans, access resources and recover from the episode that may have caused the shelter stay. There is no waiting list or appointment needed to attend groups. Individuals are encouraged to participate in support groups as soon as possible to end isolation and for support during transitional times.