Since this Monday, the canton of Neuchâtel has had a medical center to welcome victims of violence, whether they are in a relationship, in the family, on the public highway, at school or at work. It opened its doors on the site of the Pourtalès hospital in Neuchâtel and is aimed at all people aged over 16.
The Neuchâtel Center for Violence Medicine (CNMV) – that’s its name – is made up of specialized forensic nurses, as well as doctors attached to the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Bern. It will offer medico-legal consultations to support victims “in a confidential and secure environment,” the hospital said on Monday.
The specialists will mainly provide a clinical examination “with the development of medico-legal documentation – including a report of assault and battery, as well as photographs of the injuries which can, if necessary, be used by the victim to assert their claims. rights before justice”. The CNMV will also offer victims psychosocial support.
The center was born from a cross-functional initiative involving the Neuchâtel Police, the judicial authorities including the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the cantonal Public Health Service and the Office for Family Policy and Equality, recalls the canton. Its creation is aligned with the Swiss national strategy, including the revision of the law on assistance to victims of crime and the impetus given by the Federal Council and the Swiss Parliament.
Swiss
