National Centre for Victims of Violence marks its first anniversary and expands access to its services

Launched in April 2025 by the Ministry for Gender Equality and Diversity, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Social Security, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Education, Children and Youth, the CNVV is operated by the Luxembourg Red Cross. The centre was established to provide victims of violence with a safe space for immediate support and outpatient care. Open to everyone, regardless of age or gender, it offers specialised assistance for all forms of violence. During its first year, the centre supported 397 victims of physical, sexual, psychological or other forms of violence, confirming the importance of a centralised, person-centred and coordinated approach.

"These figures highlight the scale of the need. The CNVV enables victims to take a first step, at their own pace, in a safe and neutral environment," said Ashanti Berrend, Head of CNVV.

The support provided by the CNVV is based on four complementary pillars – psychosocial, medical, legal and, where requested, police support – and relies on a broad network of partners, ensuring rapid and tailored referrals to meet each individual's needs.

Since 1 May 2026, the CNVV has extended its opening hours to operate on a 24/7 basis. This major development has been made possible by strengthening the team with the recruitment of several new professionals, including social workers, educators, nurses and psychologists.

A national helpline for victims of violence, using the single telephone number 20 60 10 60, is now available around the clock. The helpline offers a listening ear, as well as information and guidance to individuals facing situations of violence and to those close to them. All staff have received specialised training delivered by SOS Détresse, ensuring that calls are handled professionally, appropriately and with care.

In addition, in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice, free legal assistance is now provided through weekly legal consultations at the centre. These developments reflect a strong commitment: to ensure that no victim is left alone in the face of violence and to strengthen the national support system in a sustainable way by guaranteeing maximum accessibility and high-quality care.

"One year ago, I announced that the CNVV would be launched as a pilot project and gradually expanded, with a broader range of services and a strengthened team. I am pleased to confirm today that we have delivered on this commitment and will continue to do so," stated Yuriko Backes, Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity, at the press conference. "With the CNVV now operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we are taking a decisive step to ensure that every victim of violence has immediate access to comprehensive, humane and professional support. Our message is clear: you are not alone, and help is available at all times."

"In just one year, the CNVV has significantly improved the way victims of violence are supported. Where pathways were previously fragmented, we now have a more coordinated and responsive approach that fully integrates the medico-legal dimension. Thanks to stronger links with emergency services and hospitals, victims now benefit from more structured and tailored support," added Martine Deprez, Minister of Health and Social Security.

"In responding to violence, our responsibility is not only to act decisively against perpetrators, but also to provide victims with practical and accessible support – including legal assistance. The availability of free legal support at the CNVV, with the backing of the Bar and funded by the State, as well as ongoing developments in the legal framework to address new forms of violence, particularly cyberviolence, further strengthen the protection of victims."

"Ensuring support is available at all times is a reminder to every victim that they are never alone," emphasised Léon Gloden, Minister for Home Affairs. "No one should be subjected to violence. Violence has no place in our society, and we must not look the other way." He also recalled that the police are specifically trained and sensitised to provide victims with the support they need.

Practical information:

Address: 3A, Val Ste Croix, L-1371 LuxembourgNational helpline for victims of violence: 20 60 10 60

Tram/Bus: Stäreplaz – Étoile

Press release issued by the Ministry for Gender Equality and Diversity / Ministry of Justice / Ministry of Health and Social Security / Ministry of Home Affairs