The SAVE association provides advice and support on all the issues that a victim of violence may encounter, including legal, psychological, and medical challenges.
On the legal side, this can involve helping to file a complaint, providing physical accompaniment to the police station or gendarmerie, and even attending hearings.
In terms of psychological support, the association offers individual counseling, support groups, therapeutic mediation, hypnosis, sophrology, EMDR, art therapy, equine therapy, writing workshops, and storytelling.
There is also a social aspect, which includes helping them flee their homes, move, and find employment.
Additionally, on the medical front, this means providing support to see a doctor to obtain a medical certificate for legal proceedings to recognize the violence suffered.
Moreover, there is a prevention component in schools, businesses, and among health professionals, firefighters, police, gendarmerie, public prosecutors, prefectures, and hospitals. It is also about gathering feedback from victims regarding both positive aspects and areas for improvement in their care.
Challenges can be exacerbated when living in a rural community—SAVE operates in about twenty of them—especially when one is geographically isolated without transportation. "That’s also why the association wanted to be present everywhere in the department, especially in rural areas,” explains Marion Doyen. “Thanks to the municipalities that generously lend us premises, we can support these victims where they are, close to home or their workplace, in a place where they know they can be safe.”
The uniqueness of SAVE lies in supporting victims at every step of their journey, not just as advisors but by being physically present at each stage. “Having someone who holds their hand and says, ‘Come on, let’s go, we’ll do this together!’ helps them because they can quickly feel overwhelmed and not know where to start, leading them to give up. Helping them take the first steps is crucial.”
Furthermore, the association is fortunate to have volunteers from various professions. Lawyers, legal experts, social workers, and psychologists are available at all times in one place and are easily accessible, which greatly simplifies the process.
Finally, the association collaborates with volunteer families who can provide emergency accommodation for victims, from a few days to several weeks, allowing for solutions even when emergency housing or hotel spaces are scarce.
