Refuge for victims of gender violence

SHELTERS run by the Andalucia Women’s Institute (IAM) across Almeria took in 133 victims of gender-based violence in 2015 alone, according to the organisation which offers a safe place to those needing refuge. 

Francisca Serrano, the IAM co-ordinator in the province said: “These figures show how big this social problem is and also demonstrates that it should constantly be a priority in the social, political and media agenda.” 

She also pointed out that roughly 30 per cent of the women were foreign and this ‘is not a handicap in order to access the service’, as they have the same rights as Spanish women seeking help. 

The IAM provides psychological, legal, financial, and social support to women fleeing violence and has 34 shelters throughout Andalucia, including nine emergency centres.