Help for those directly affected

Domestic violence is often a taboo subject. Men can be affected just as much as women and children. It takes courage and strength to break the silence. Take the first step and get support. Say no to domestic violence!

Indirectly affected children

Domestic violence often affects children. They see, hear and feel the violence. They often become extremely anxious and feel helpless and ashamed. Affected children grow up in an environment filled with threat and insecurity. This can severely impair a child’s normal development. Experiencing domestic violence is a form of psychological violence against children.

Directly affected children

When children themselves are exposed to violence (physical and/or sexual violence), we speak of child abuse. Half of all children in Switzerland experience violence in their upbringing. One in five children experiences severe violence. One in seven children is sexually assaulted. The consequences for the affected children are often serious.

The spiral of violence

A spiral of violence is a characteristic sequence of behavioural patterns that can be described in short as the build-up of tension in the relationship, followed by an outbreak of violence. This is followed by occasional remorse and perhaps a temporary reconciliation. After this phase, the tension builds up again, perpetuating the spiral once again. A characteristic feature is that it is often extremely difficult for those involved to break out of this pattern without external help.

Protective and distancing measures

The primary aim of the police is to stop the violence and protect the victim. Those affected will be listened to separately about the incident and appropriate immediate measures will be taken. In order to protect people against domestic violence, Zug Police may issue a removal order, a restraining order or a no-contact order against the perpetrator for a maximum of 10 days.

Criminal charges

Charges are not filed for every police intervention. If the police identify criminal acts, the legislator decides whether the crime is categorised as a crime requiring a formal complaint from the victim (Antragsdelikt) or a crime that can be prosecuted without a formal complaint (Offizialdelikt). Those affected will be informed by the police about further action depending on the situation.

Support services

You also have a right to protection from violence at home. If you are in a threatening situation, seek protection and immediately call the police emergency number 117. Contact the Zug Police Department for Domestic Violence or another advice centre as soon as possible.