New shelter for women in Hallein: Security and perspectives!

New shelter for women in Hallein: Security and perspectives!

A new protection concept for women and children was installed in the Hallein church district after the old women's shelter Miriam was closed three and a half years ago. In the newly renovated Dechanthof facility there are now 17 apartments available that offer space for women who suffer from violence in their families. Andrea Schmid, the director of Caritas Salzburg, emphasizes the goal of offering the women concerned a safe retreat where they can recover and reorient themselves. "The children who come along are also affected by violence and must also be supported," she adds. The archdiocese invested around six million euros in the redesign of the centuries -old building fabric, with half of the sum being applied through funding from the country and the Caritas. Schmid also explains the security measures of the new house, which is equipped with alarm systems and surveillance cameras in order to give the residents a feeling of security.

protection and support for affected women

In addition to the new accommodations in Hallein, the Heckerstift in Mannheim offers space for 18 women and their children, which are threatened by physical or psychological violence. The women's shelter guarantees a safe and anonymous environment in which women can be accepted regardless of their income or belief. Recordings are possible for several weeks up to several months. The residents are offered individual care and support in clarifying their life situation, including help in processing weighing situations and interaction with authorities. In addition, women who do not live in the house can take advice to improve their life situation, such as Caritas Mannheim

In both facilities, the focus is on creating a safe home in which women can take care of themselves and plan their next steps into a independent future. The combination of safe living space and individual support promotes independence and helps to break through the cycle of violence.