Focus on advice, openness, and prevention
Care and Youth Caribbean Netherlands (ZJCN) launched a new campaign against domestic violence and child abuse in recent weeks, called SAFE TOGETHER, STRONG TOGETHER.
The campaign aims to support professionals such as social workers, teachers, and care workers in applying the new Protection Code that has been in effect since January 1, 2025. There is also a special advisory line that offers a listening ear and advice: GUIAMI (0802-0802). This advisory line provides completely anonymous advice to callers who have a difficult home situation or suspect there are family problems in their surroundings.
The campaign is supported by deputies Nina den Heyer (Bonaire), Reuben Merkman (Sint Eustatius), and Eviton Heyliger (Saba), all of whom were present at the various meetings organized for professionals and citizens. During these meetings, speakers shared their own experiences with domestic violence, including deputy Nina den Heyer herself. Actor and storyteller Archell Thompson, himself a victim of child abuse, also contributed to the campaign. With an interactive theater piece, he posed questions in an accessible manner to make domestic violence and child abuse discussable.
Nina den Heyer: In my time, there was no advice and reporting point. As a victim of domestic violence, I could count on the support of family and friends, which made a world of difference. That is why I urge our community to build a culture where we support each other in cases of suspected domestic violence or child abuse.
Jantine Homan, head of the Social Domain ZJCN: “Unfortunately, domestic violence and child abuse is still a reality, even in the Caribbean Netherlands. The Protection Code and the advisory line are steps in the right direction to support victims and bystanders and to offer a way out or simply advice. ZJCN is proud of the campaign that brings attention to the Protection Code and remains committed to a safer Caribbean Netherlands, even at home.”
If you have concerns about yourself or someone else, or questions about the Protection Code, please call:
Bonaire: Guiami, Sentro Akseso riba 0802-0802
Sint Eustatius: Statia Strong Support Hotline at +5993184837
Saba: Domestic Safety Point at +599 416 6936/ 416 3053