KINGSTON, Jamaica – With domestic abuse cases continuing to impact the lives of women and children across Jamaica, a growing number of survivors are seeking ways to escape violence in their homes. Whether the abuse comes from an intimate partner, parent, or caregiver, many women—especially those with babies or young children—face significant challenges in finding safe, accessible support.
In response, this guide has been created to point women toward critical services, resources, and support organisations that offer help. It includes information for those who may not be ready to leave but need someone to talk to, as well as practical tips for preparing to leave safely.
This is not a legal document, but a community-driven effort to provide guidance and hope. The article outlines where to find shelter, how to access counselling, and which organisations are best equipped to assist with crisis care, particularly for mothers and vulnerable women in abusive households.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse in Jamaica, this guide may be the first step toward a safer future.
Domestic abuse—whether from a partner, parent, or other family member—is never your fault. If you're a woman in Jamaica facing violence, control, threats, or emotional trauma, and especially if you have a baby or young child, there is support available.
This article is a signpost guide—not legal advice. It is designed to gently point you toward the people, places, and organisations that can help.
Recognising Abuse
You may be experiencing domestic violence or abuse if someone:
- Physically harms or threatens you
- Controls where you go, who you speak to, or what you do
- Insults, humiliates, or intimidates you
- Forces you into sex or withholds affection as punishment
- Controls your money or keeps you financially dependent
- Mistreats or neglects your children
- Denies you access to food, shelter, medical help, or emotional safety
Abuse is never acceptable, even when it comes from someone close to you.
Step 1: Reach Out for Support (Safely)
You don’t have to do this alone. Even if you’re not ready to leave, talking to someone can help you feel less isolated and more informed about your options.
Consider contacting or researching the following organisations:
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Woman Inc.
Offers counselling, emergency shelter, and a 24-hour crisis centre.
Website: www.womanincja.org -
Victim Services Division (Ministry of Justice)
Provides emotional support, referrals, and guidance for survivors of abuse.
Website: www.moj.gov.jm -
Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation
Supports teen mothers and pregnant girls with counselling, education reintegration, and parenting support.
Website: www.womenscentreja.com -
Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)
Assists mothers and children in crisis, and intervenes where there is risk of harm.
Website: www.childprotection.gov.jm -
UN Women Caribbean
Connects survivors with resources, advocacy, and regional support services.
Website: caribbean.unwomen.org -
Jamaica Constabulary Force Domestic Violence Intervention Centres
Located in select police stations, these centres can assist with protection and support.
Website: www.jcf.gov.jm
Step 2: Quietly Prepare to Leave
If you decide to leave, do so carefully. Only make plans if it is safe and you feel ready.
What to prepare:
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Identification documents for you and your children
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Clinic cards, health documents, and prescriptions
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Birth certificates
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School records or transfer letters
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Some cash or a bank card
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A mobile phone with saved emergency contacts
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Clothes, diapers, and baby essentials
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A comfort item for your child
Store these with someone you trust or in a location only you know. Avoid telling the abuser your plans.
Step 3: Find Safe Shelter
There are safe places in Jamaica where women and children can go, even in an emergency.
Shelters are operated by:
- Woman Inc.
- National Shelter Strategy (under the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport)
- Local churches and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Faith-based and community groups with housing support
If shelters are full, support workers can help arrange alternative temporary housing. A support organisation or trained counsellor can guide you through this process.
If You Have a Baby or Child
Support services exist for women with children, including newborns.
- Shelters are child-friendly and will accommodate your baby
- The Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation provides help for teen mothers
- Some agencies offer food, diapers, and parenting support
- Schools can assist with transferring your child safely and discreetly
If your child has been hurt or is at risk, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency can help protect them and provide safe alternatives.
Step 4: Healing and Moving Forward
Leaving abuse is not the end—it is the beginning of healing and rebuilding your life.
Support organisations can help with:
- Counselling for trauma and emotional healing
- Support groups for survivors of abuse
- Skills training or job preparation through organisations such as the HEART/NSTA Trust
- Schooling support for your child
- Help accessing housing or financial assistance
Recovery takes time, but with support, you can begin to regain confidence, independence, and peace.
Final Thoughts
You do not need permission to protect yourself or your child. You do not have to remain in a violent situation for the sake of tradition, guilt, or fear.
Help is available. These organisations exist because your safety and well-being matter.
This guide is not legal advice. It is simply a signpost toward safety, shelter, and healing. Every woman deserves to feel secure and respected. And every small step you take toward that goal matters.
Resources (Websites Only)
- Woman Inc: www.womanincja.org
- Ministry of Justice – Victim Services: www.moj.gov.jm
- Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation: www.womenscentreja.com
- Child Protection and Family Services Agency: www.childprotection.gov.jm
- UN Women Caribbean: caribbean.unwomen.org
- Jamaica Constabulary Force: www.jcf.gov.jm
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or professional counselling. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Jamaica-homes.com do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or availability of any organisation, service, or resource mentioned.
Contact details, website links, and services are subject to change. Readers are encouraged to verify all information directly with the respective organisations before taking any action.
We do not accept any responsibility or liability for any loss, harm, or damages that may result from reliance on the information in this article. If you are in immediate danger or facing a crisis, please contact local emergency services or a trusted professional organisation directly.