On February 7, a crisis room for survivors of domestic and/or gender-based violence was opened in the Korosten community. This initiative was implemented as part of the UNFPA project "Cities and Communities Free from Domestic Violence" in Ukraine, with the support of the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, the Korosten City Council, financial assistance from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, and in partnership with the NGO Association of Experts on the Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence.  

Since May 2023, the city has participated in this project, which has included training for social workers, psychologists, lawyers, and police representatives. The city operates a municipal social services centre, a mobile team, and now a crisis room has been launched.  

In 2024, 2,438 people sought services related to domestic and gender-based violence, including 1,711 women, 600 men, and 127 children.  

"Well-being and harmony in communities are essential factors that help people stay and feel comfortable despite any challenges. Additionally, responding to domestic violence is a crucial element of community resilience. It is good to see such services being implemented. I am confident they will be effective because the first steps have already been taken: conditions have been created, and trained specialists are in place," said Pavlo Zamostyan, Deputy Representative of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine.  

"The key is to ensure that the individual is at the centre of all processes, that every person is respected. This is the foundation of our future development. It can only be achieved when people can communicate, feel happy, resolve their issues, and feel protected—whether by civil society organizations, the police, or the authorities," noted Volodymyr Moskalenko, Mayor of Korosten.  

The crisis room is a secure, round-the-clock space for short-term stays for individuals who fear being left alone with their abuser. The exact location of the crisis room is kept confidential.  

Crisis rooms guarantee safety and provide 24/7 support from specialists for women and children affected by domestic violence. All survivors are provided with necessary living conditions, essential items, and food for a comfortable stay.  

Services Available at the Crisis Room:  

• 24/7 safe shelter for a period of 10 to 20 days;  
• Basic necessities and food;  
• Initial psychological support;  
• Legal consultation;  
• Assistance in finding alternative permanent housing;  
• Referral to a shelter or another organization for long-term accommodation.  

Access to the crisis room is available by personal request or through referrals from the police, mobile teams, or other social services.