In Calvados, a truck to fight against domestic violence in rural areas

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In his tour of the department, The Women’s Truck 14, initiative supported by the Routes association, stopped in the parking lot of the Maison des services in Thury-Harcourt (Calvados) a few weeks ago. This vehicle, designed to help people in rural areas, is a new essential tool in the fight against social inequalities and domestic violence, particularly in areas where social support is sometimes non-existent. We met the project coordinator, Manon Konczak. What does she suggest? We took a ride on board.

Built in 2023

“The Routes association works throughout Calvados, providing support and assistance to people in very precarious circumstances, whether in terms of accommodation, social support, or the promotion of gender equality,” explains Manon. The association also plays a crucial role in supporting women victims of domestic violence.

For several months, this truck, converted and inaugurated in November 2023, has been traveling through the rural communes of the department, landing in markets or near health centers to offer listening, information and advice services. “The purpose of this truck is also to listen, inform and advise on subjects of sexism and violence,” explains Manon Konczak. She adds that these interventions can be done with the support of social partners.

Meeting a crucial need in rural areas

On board this truck, experts in the social field offer medical, psychological, social and legal support in an anonymous, non-stigmatizing and respectful setting. “The truck aims to reduce the isolation of women and meet their needs in a direct and accessible way. » All issues related to women, whether adolescents or adults, can be addressed there: health, well-being, violence, access to rights, and much more.

The association has determined the municipalities with the most pressing needs in terms of social support, particularly arounddomestic violence. This initiative led to the establishment of hotlines in regions where social support is less present. “We have signed an agreement with several local authorities, including the Cingal-Suisse Norman community of communes, as well as those of Val-ès-Dunes. Other conventions are in preparation with Isigny-Omaha Intercom, Seulles Terre et Mer and Côte de Nacre,” continues the coordinator.

An “essential” mobile presence

The essential goal of Women’s Truck 14 is to identify cases of domestic violence in rural areas. The truck, belonging to the Caen Public Mental Health Establishment (EPSM), is rented by the association to carry out its local missions. “This mobile presence is essential to reach isolated and vulnerable people, often outside the reach of traditional social services. »

The truck was also present at the Beauregard festival. “In total, 257 young people showed up at our truck to discuss several aspects of equality between men and women. » The itinerant truck from the Routes association will be present during the Pink October march on October 19 in Caen.

Women’s truck 14, Tuesdays October 15, November 19 and December 17 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., in the parking lot of the Thury-Harcourt Services Center, and in Bretteville-sur-Laize from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Instagram: lecamiondesfemmes14; Facebook: Le Camion des Femmes 14. Tel. 07 88 28 84 29.

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