Inauguration of Olista: the first centre for victims of domestic abuse in the Brussels-Capital Region

Today marks an important milestone in the fight against domestic abuse in the Brussels Region, with the inauguration of Olista, the region's first centre for victims of domestic abuse. Launched by safe.brussels, and made possible thanks to the support of the Secretary of State for Equal Opportunities and her administration equal.brussels, this revolutionary centre will offer comprehensive support to victims of domestic abuse and help coordinate the efforts of all players involved in tackling this scourge.
 

13 CASES REPORTED EVERY DAY IN THE BCR

With 4,848 cases of domestic abuse reported in 2022, as well as 2 identified femicides, these alarming figures for domestic abuse in the Brussels Region underline the need for concerted action. Olista was conceived to provide comprehensive support for victims of domestic abuse. By providing working protocols for professionals, the centre ensures easy access to the full range of services and expertise needed to help victims out of their situation.

OLISTA HAS VARIOUS OBJECTIVES

The centre aims to provide victims of domestic abuse with all the support they need to rebuild their lives. This is by fostering an effective, cross-cutting approach, in particular by implementing working protocols between the partners. Olista focuses on coordinating the efforts of its partners, to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each situation.

The partners involved in this initiative reflect the diversity and complementarity of the services needed to effectively (holistically) combat domestic abuse. From safe.brussels to the various associations, social, medical, legal and judicial services, each partner brings valuable expertise to the table.

"Olista is a veritable tour de force of collaboration and engagement. Since its inception, we have worked tirelessly to bring together partners from different disciplines and communities, overcoming language and conceptual barriers to offer comprehensive support to victims of domestic abuse. Olista is much more than a centre: it's a symbol of our capacity to combine our strengths for a safer future." Sophie Lavaux, General Manager of safe.brussels.

The inauguration of Olista is also part of the broader political commitment of the Brussels Region for the safety and well-being of its citizens. This initiative gives substance to the 2019-2024 Regional Policy Declaration of the Brussels Government, which puts the fight against violence against women at the top of its priorities.

Olista is more than a centre: it represents tangible hope for the victims and strong solidarity for the partners involved, demonstrating that when we combine our strengths, we can overcome the inequalities in our society. 

"With the inauguration of Olista, we are sending out a strong message: one of solidarity and hope for victims of domestic abuse. This centre embodies our determination to take concerted and effective action to offer holistic support to vulnerable people." Yves Bastaerts, Deputy General Manager of safe.brussels.
 

Further information: https://safe.brussels/en/olista