New local 24/7 domestic abuse hotline

  • Published
  • By Family Advocacy Program
  • 5th MDG Mental Health Clinic
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The 5th Medical Group's Family Advocacy Program established a new domestic abuse hotline Feb. 1, designed to provide 24/7 assistance to Airmen and their spouses here who are or may be potential victims of domestic violence.

The newly established hotline is 701-557-9466.

In order to offer help in dealing with these types of issues, the base was recently granted the resources to provide for a full-time Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate who can answer questions on-the-spot regarding a domestic violence situation, without disclosing identifying information about parties involved.

The DAVA will be a full time member of the Family Advocacy Program and can assist with all forms of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse cases.

One of the main purposes of the services provided by the DAVA is to offer victims and potential victims of domestic violence with support, education, and information about advocacy services. Another goal is to help protect victims from further abuse or harm and to empower individuals to take control of their current and future situation.

The representative will also be able to help victims in many ways, including safety planning, locating available resources on and off base, accompanying victims to medical appointments or legal proceedings, assisting in finding shelter, and filing for a protective order among other services. The hotline will also be for anyone who has any questions about any form of intimate partner abuse.

Restricted and unrestricted reporting procedure options will always be explained and, if need be, the caller will be encouraged to come to the Family Advocacy Program for service and resources.

The Family Advocacy Program and the DAVA work cohesively to ensure that all victims are given appropriate education, information, resources and support.

Eligibility for DAVA services is currently limited to active duty members and their spouses only, although other Minot personnel may be eligible for a one time appointment. Nonetheless, eligibility concerns should not stop anyone from calling for help, as referrals to other helping agencies can be offered.

The DAVA is a resource for command and leadership and any questions to the DAVA or the Family Advocacy Program are welcomed and encouraged at any time.

The understanding and education of domestic violence issues are key to overcoming this serious issue that impacts both military and civilian personnel and their families.

For more information about the program contact the Family Advocacy Program at 723-5096.

(Editor's Note: Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs contributed to this article)