A charity focused on protecting women has backed measures to address an “epidemic” of domestic abuse on the island.

The Women’s Resource Centre said it was “highly encouraged” by comments made in the Senate this week by Kim Wilkerson, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, about plans to address domestic violence.

In addition to the launch of a domestic violence court programme next month, Ms Wilkerson said the Government was considering several potential measures to curb the widespread problem.

The proposals included the introduction of evidence-based prosecutions, which would remove the reliance on victim testimony in domestic violence cases, and police-initiated domestic violence protection orders, which would allow officers to apply for DVPOs on behalf of survivors.

A spokeswoman for the WRC said that Ms Wilkerson’s statement recognised domestic abuse as a public health crisis and a national epidemic.

“This acknowledgement is critical in addressing the far-reaching impacts of abuse and fostering meaningful change in Bermuda,” she said.

The spokeswoman said that Ms Wilkerson’s reference to 140 domestic violence protection orders being issued by the end of November — a 75 per cent increase over the total figure for last year — aligned with trends recorded by the charity.

She explained: “Between January 1 and October 31, 2024, the WRC received 56 domestic abuse-related inquiries, providing not only legal advocacy but also therapeutic and practical support.

“These figures reflect the prevalence of this issue and the need for sustained, targeted intervention.”

Of the additional measures being considered, the WRC spokeswoman said the charity was particularly encouraged that the Government suggested a version of Clare’s Law could be brought to the island.

Clare’s Law, introduced to Britain in 2014, allows individuals to inquire about their partner’s domestic violence history and allows police to proactively warn potential victims about their partner’s abusive history.

The WRC spokeswoman said: “This initiative not only holds perpetrators accountable for their abusive behaviours but also empowers potential victims with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their relationships.

“Access to this kind of information could be life-saving and is a proactive measure in preventing further harm.”

The spokeswoman said that the statement highlighted proposed policies and legislative changes that would help to address longstanding gaps in the judicial system.

“One of the greatest obstacles for survivors is legal advocacy and representation, and we welcome any steps that streamline this process while ensuring it is delivered in a trauma-informed manner,” she said.

“We recognise that the legal system plays a critical role in breaking the cycle of abuse, and this programme represents a significant advancement in that effort.

“We also appreciate the Attorney-General’s emphasis on recognising non-physical forms of abuse, such as coercive control, manipulation, excessive monitoring, isolation and intimidation.

“These behaviours can leave lasting psychological scars, and we hope to see them legislated as part of Bermuda’s ongoing efforts to combat domestic violence.

“Such measures are critical in ensuring survivors receive the comprehensive protection and support they need.”

The WRC said it believed the introduction of the domestic violence court programme would represent a “vital step” in supporting survivors by offering timely legal support.

“By prioritising swift hearings, protection orders and trauma-informed practices, this initiative has the potential to significantly reduce barriers that survivors face in seeking justice and safety,” its spokeswoman said.

She also backed stronger sentences to ensure accountability along with immediate consequences for breaches of DVPOs.

“The lack of accountability for perpetrators has consistently been a challenge for our clients and remains a key reason many survivors do not report abuse or pursue legal action,” she said.

“Strengthening these measures will provide survivors with the confidence that their safety and wellbeing are taken seriously.

“We also understand the necessity of providing intervention programmes for perpetrators of abuse.

“Addressing the root causes of abusive behaviours is an essential component of a holistic strategy to combat domestic violence, and such programmes are crucial for reducing recidivism and fostering long-term change.”