A temporary new shelter for domestic violence victims has been established by Government.

The move comes after the recent closure of the safe house operated by the Centre Against Abuse.

Minister of Community, Culture and Sports, Wayne Scott, made the announcement yesterday afternoon at a press conference.

He said that since the Centre’s shelter had closed down Government was not aware of any emergency situations requiring the use of a safe house.

“I am pleased to inform you that Government has located a secure facility which will be used immediately as a temporary shelter for those who find themselves in need of emergency support due to domestic violence,” Mr Scott said.

“The shelter identified represents only a short term solution, but will allow Government the time needed to continue to work with various stakeholders to identify a long-term solution.”

Mr Scott said that Government was looking within the Ministry’s budget to see if funds could be diverted from other areas to help meet the operating costs of the shelter that had been operated by the Centre Against Abuse.

“Government would encourage charities that offer similar services to combine their resources. We believe that the time has come for charities to work together more closely so that the vital services they provide to the public are less likely to be put at risk,” he said.

“To that end the Centre Against Abuse and the Women’s Resource Centre, two charities which service similar clients, have agreed to look for opportunities to increase collaboration around administrative and programming aspects.

“Discussions are ongoing around the possibility of both charities being housed under the same roof, which could reduce the operating expenses of each charity.”

The Minister added: “I would like to thank and congratulate the Centre Against Abuse, the Women’s Resource Centre and the Centre on Philanthropy for working with Government to find a solution to this problem, and for recognising the need for charities to collaborate to achieve the best possible outcome for Bermudians in need.

“Government will continue to work with these organisations and their Boards to identify the means whereby the critical and vital services they offer will continue to be made available to Bermuda’s residents.”

Mr Scott said that the Centre Against Abuse was ‘on board’ with the latest developments: “The Centre Against Abuse’s board has been in our office. They are appreciative of our support.”

The charity’s executive director, Laurie Shiell, said: “We have been in informal talks with the Ministry and the Women’s Resource Centre. We are looking forward to see what the Minister has to offer.”