Prevention
Together, we can build a just, equitable Rhode Island,
where everyone is safe and each person can thrive.
Address the Root Causes of Violence
At the core of domestic violence is power and control. An abusive person seeks to control and dominate their partner or family member, depriving them of self-determination and denying their humanity. Systems of oppression do the same to groups of people on a societal level. We cannot end domestic violence until we end oppression in all its forms, because we cannot disrupt power and control on an interpersonal level unless we also dismantle it in our systems, policies and structures.
Create Supportive,
Safe Environments
Our environments, such as our neighborhoods, schools and workplaces, influence our choices, attitudes and behaviors. When we improve community connection, access to resources and awareness of intimate partner violence (IPV) within our environments, we can promote attitudes and behaviors that are intolerant of IPV and build healthy, thriving communities where people are less likely to choose to be violent.
Coordinate and Sustain Prevention
Many forms of violence – including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, youth violence, bullying and suicide – share the same risk factors that make them more likely to occur, and the same factors that protect against them. With increased primary prevention funding, strong cross-sector partnerships and using data and evaluation, we can shift from working in the siloes of our separate issues to prevent multiple related forms of violence before they start.
Preventing Intimate Partner Violence in Rhode Island
Preventing Intimate Partner Violence in Rhode Island is a publication that outlines three priorities to prevent intimate partner violence before it starts and build safe, connected communities. The publication invites Rhode Islanders to envision a future free from violence and play a part in the collective work needed to end abuse.
Helpline Available 24/7
The confidential statewide Helpline can be reached by calling 1-800-494-8100 or using the online chat here. The Helpline is for all victims of violent crime, including domestic and dating abuse, and those looking for more information to help a victim of violence.