For Immediate Release
Contact: Diane Lance (615.880.1100)
METRO OFFICE OF FAMILY SAFETY ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY CHANGES TO
SLOW THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
Vital Services for Victims of Interpersonal Violence Remain Accessible
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 23, 2020) – In an effort to promote social distancing and minimize the spread of COVID-19, the Metro Office of Family Safety is making several changes to its operations effective immediately. During this time, vital supports for victims of interpersonal violence will remain accessible, although with modifications to help ensure the health of staff and community members.
- Nashville’s Court based Family Safety Center, the Jean Crowe Advocacy Center, will suspend its on-site operations until further notice. Those victims appearing for court will be able to work with an Office of Family Safety Advocate by phone.
- The Metro Office of Family Safety will continue to assist clients at Nashville’s Family Safety Center at 610 Murfreesboro Pike for in-person Order of Protection assistance and assistance by phone for other advocacy needs. Distancing precautions will be taken for the safety of all clients and staff.
- Procedures are in place for the continuity of core responsibilities that must be completed daily. Three key functions that will receive specialized attention include: 1) Order of Protection assistance; 2) emergency advocacy assistance; and 3) high risk intervention panel (conducted remotely) and case flagging for high risk concerns.
“Safety risks for victims of domestic violence increase during times of community crisis as stress and isolation increase,” Diane Lance, director of the Metro Office of Family Safety, said. “In this particular case, where everyone is being told to stay at home, we have to recognize that home is not a safe place for everyone in our community. We want to send a clear message to anyone in an abusive relationship that we are here to help, and that has not changed. Victims are urged to call 9-1-1 if they are in immediate danger. Any other time, they can call our office to speak with an advocate. Our phones are answered 24/7 with help outside of normal business hours from the Tennessee Domestic Violence Hotline.”
The Metro Office of Family Safety can be reached at 615-880-1100.
Adaptations, postponements, and cancellations of other services will be posted on our website www.ofs.nashville.gov and our social media (Facebook @OfficeofFamilySafety).
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