The aim of the project “Confronting digital violence in women’s shelters with confidence” by Frauenhauskoordinierung eV (FHK) is to support professionals in women’s shelters and counselling centers in better protecting victims from digital violence and sustainably strengthening digital security in everyday women’s shelter life.
As part of the project, numerous practical materials have been developed so far – from media education teaching materials to explanatory videos and infographics, as well as comprehensive information services for professionals.
Media rules in the women's shelter
One component of the project was the development of the media education material "Media Rules in Women's Shelters" . The poster supports professionals in working with children and young people to develop rules for the safe use of digital media in women's shelters.
From a total of twelve suggested rules, facilities can select suitable ones or add their own. The materials encourage dialogue with residents and their children about why certain rules are important in women's shelters and how digital inclusion and protection from digital violence can be linked. A pedagogical guide has also been developed to support professionals in workshops and discussions.
Free illustrations for practical use
The illustrations created for the poster were also published as free downloadable materials. The symbols can be used flexibly – for example, to mark rooms where mobile phones or photography are prohibited, or to visualize permitted video calls.
Explanatory videos on digital violence
To support professionals and those affected by digital security, several explanatory videos have been produced. The videos address key questions surrounding digital violence, such as location protection, Bluetooth trackers, and the differences between devices, apps, and cloud services.
They are aimed at staff in women's shelters as well as victims of digital violence and all interested parties.
Infographics for consulting and risk analysis
In addition to the explanatory videos, practical infographics were developed. They support professionals, particularly in assessing digital risks and in conveying technical fundamentals.
The infographics explain, among other things:
- the difference between app, cloud and device,
- key aspects of risk analysis in cases of digital violence,
- Important steps in the consultation process.
The materials can be used, for example, in consultation rooms or as support during intake interviews.
Brochure “Mom, can I use your cell phone?”
Together with klicksafe, the brochure “Mom, may I use your mobile phone?” was revised and published in simple language as well as in several other languages.
The brochure is aimed at parents with children aged three to six and provides practical suggestions for the responsible use of digital media. It offers particularly important starting points for discussions on media use, attachment, and child development, especially for those working in the field of violence prevention and support for women.
FHK information sheet on digital (ex-)partner violence
The information sheet “Digital (Ex-)Partnership Violence in Women’s Shelters” is a compact guide that summarizes key challenges of digital violence in close social relationships.
The information sheet covers the following topics:
- Forms and effects of digital violence,
- holistic protection approaches,
- Challenges and needs in women's shelters,
- Legal frameworks for strengthening the support system.
It is aimed at professionals and decision-makers and offers an easy introduction to the topic.
New professional portal “Safe against digital violence”
A particular milestone of the project is the new professional portal "Safe against digital violence" . On the platform, professionals will find comprehensive information, practical tips, working materials and subject-relevant articles on the topic of digital violence in the social environment.
The portal enables:
- low-threshold access to knowledge,
- flexible and up-to-date information services,
- targeted search for topics, languages and target groups,
- practical recommendations for action,
- Access to checklists, posters and explainer videos.
Furthermore, the offer is aimed not only at women's shelters and counselling centers, but also at related professional groups such as the police and judiciary, as well as other interested parties.
The "Digital Violence" project highlights the importance of expanding digital skills in violence prevention. The resulting materials and resources support professionals in better protecting victims, assessing risks, and considering digital violence in their daily counseling practice.
Quality recommendations
Current women's shelter statistics
