A government minister voiced concern about incidents of domestic abuse across Bermuda.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, said: “Domestic violence is an issue that transcends gender, age and background.

“It happens everywhere, behind closed doors, and there are occurrences of public displays.”

Her comments come after eight domestic incidents were reported to the Bermuda Police Service between 5pm on August 16 and 8am on August 19 — during and directly after Hurricane Ernesto’s passage over the island.

Ms Furbert added: “We must stand together as a community to ensure victims know they are not alone.

“Our ministry has worked relentlessly to build the necessary support systems, and now, more than ever, we need to encourage victims to step forward and seek help; there is no shame in seeking support, only strength.

“This Government is deeply committed to ensuring that no one feels they must endure abuse in silence.

“We will continue to work hand in hand with our partner agencies to ensure that we create a fairer and better Bermuda for our families, where everyone feels safe, valued and protected."

Government programmes aimed at addressing the issue include the formation of a Gender Affairs Council, National Child Safeguarding Policy and Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference, financial support for people affected by domestic abuse, and more than $750,000 in grants to charities such as the Women’s Resource Centre and the Centre Against Abuse since 2021.

• People experiencing domestic abuse, or who may know someone else enduring it, can call the Centre Against Abuse on 297-8278 or info@centreagainstabuse.bm, Women’s Resource Centre on 295-3882 or wrc@wrcbermuda.com or dial 911 for emergencies