by The Hon. Tinee' S . Furbert, JP, MP
Minister of Youth, Social Development & Seniors

Domestic abuse is not just a private issue—it is a community crisis. And the Progressive Labour Party Government is taking bold action to ensure that survivors are protected, abusers are held accountable, and support systems are strengthened across the island.

In 2022, the Government committed—through the Throne Speech—to commission a full review of Bermuda’s domestic abuse response system. That promise has become reality. Today, thanks to the partnership with Safe Lives UK and the hard work of frontline agencies, Bermuda is building a safer, more responsive system for those in crisis.

From Review to Action: A 5-Year Strategy

Following the system review, Bermuda launched its first comprehensive 5-year Domestic Abuse Strategy in 2023. This strategy includes 10 priority action items aimed at transforming how our country prevents, responds to, and ultimately ends domestic abuse.

One of the most critical outcomes of this strategy was realised in April 2025, when the Government hired Bermuda’s first certified Domestic Abuse Liaison Social Worker.

A Lifeline for Survivors

This new specialist brings over four years of frontline experience supporting high-risk victims of domestic abuse. Their role is to:

• Provide emotional support

• Assist with safety planning

• Connect survivors with critical services

Working closely with agencies like the Department of Child and Family Services, the Centre Against Abuse, the Bermuda Police Service's Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), and the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Committee (MARAC), this professional ensures that no survivor falls through the cracks.

Coordinated Action Saves Lives

MARAC brings together key agencies weekly to:

• Share information on high-risk cases

• Create coordinated safety plans

• Act collectively to protect victims and hold abusers accountable

This collaboration is already making a difference—ensuring that both women and men no longer have to navigate the system alone. The work of the liaison social worker is already preventing tragedies and offering hope to those who have often suffered in silence.

A Community-Wide Effort

The fight to end domestic abuse isn’t just about one program or one professional. It requires a whole-of-community approach. That’s why the Ministry has also started work on a broader five-year strategic plan, with internal consultations already underway and public engagement soon to follow.

To truly eliminate domestic abuse in Bermuda, we must all play a role—government, civil society, families, and individuals.

Standing with Survivors

The Government’s vision is clear:
A Bermuda where abuse is no longer hidden, where survivors are supported—not shamed, and where every Bermudian can live free from fear.

We thank the committed members of the MARAC Committee, who meet every week to turn strategy into action. Your efforts are helping to create a safer, fairer Bermuda—one where dignity, safety, and justice are available to all.

Together, we can end domestic abuse. And together, we will.