Lanzarote has opened its first round-the-clock crisis centre to support victims of sexual violence, offering immediate psychological, legal and emotional assistance to victims from the moment they need help.
It forms part of Spain’s National Plan against Gender Based Violence and is funded by the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Mechanism.
The centre, located on Calle Blas Cabrera Topham in Arrecife, was approved earlier this year when authorities purchased a dedicated property to house the service. It will operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Alongside the new facility, the Lanzarote Cabildo has strengthened its support network, working with specialist organisations to provide a “complete and effective response” to one of the island’s most urgent social problems.
Councillor Oswaldo Betancort said the fight against gender violence remains both a political and moral priority. “This is about protecting the lives and dignity of women and their children,” he said.
“We will not spare any effort or resources to ensure a fast, professional and compassionate response. The fight demands unity, technical expertise and a clear message to society: we will not tolerate gender violence in any form.”
The Island Women’s Support Service (SIAM), which offers psychological, legal and social care to victims of gender-based violence, has been expanded with a new psychologist and the introduction of a group therapy programme to support emotional recovery.
Lanzarote’s Social Welfare and Inclusion councillor, Marci Acuña, said the Council’s work goes well beyond emergency response. “We want to accompany each woman on her journey to empowerment and recovery, with support available in the short, medium and long term,” he said. “They are not alone. They have the right to a life free of violence, and they have a public system standing beside them.”
The island’s emergency services also include the 24-hour DEMA unit, accessible via the 112 emergency line, providing immediate assistance to women facing violence. The Immediate Shelter Centre (CAI) offers safe housing for women and children at immediate risk, while a longer-term Safe House is available for those requiring extended support and rehabilitation.
They have also strengthened partnerships with specialist organisations such as Doctors of the World, which works with women involved in prostitution and sexual exploitation, and the Mararía Association, which provides secure housing and ongoing support.
“We’re determined to build a strong and empathetic network that puts women and their children at the centre,” Acuña added. “Our responsibility is clear, we cannot let them down.”
