Anti-Violence Centres

Brief Description

In Italy there are a number of "anti violence centers" operated by non-governmental organizations. These centers offer free legal and psychological advice and, depending on resources availability, sometimes operate as shelters. Centers are usually financed and supported by local government (Regions or Municipalities) that are responsible for the general organization of social services' system in their area.

Both centers and, were available, shelters are quite widespread on the Italian territory, but, since they're mostly organized on a voluntary basis, they are quite small sized. The majority of centres are open to victims of gender based, domestic and sexual violence. Some shelters are able to offer hospitality to women with children, but anti violence centers can also try to find a temporary accommodation for them in other specific structures.