Domestic Abuse Support
THE DOMESTIC ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM (DAPP)
The program also works on prevention of domestic abuse through on-going outreach and educational efforts. The program s based at the World Bank Group’s HQ and serves all WBG and IMF staff, spouses/partners, and families around the world.
The DAPP team includes multi-cultural and multi-lingual licensed clinicians/counselors, and a case manager to deal with the very distinct issues that many individuals who experience abuse face, as well as a program coordinator who oversees all elements of the service.
The DAPP provides free and confidential assessments, counseling, safety planning, case management and referral services to individuals dealing with domestic abuse both at the Washington, DC Headquarters in DC as well as Country Offices throughout the world. A hot line is always available for crisis support, day and night. Staff members ’employment status will not be impacted if a spouse contacts the program. The goal of the DAPP is to help empower individuals to access their personal strengths and resilience through a process of support, information, and resources so that they can make informed decisions and get the help they need.
Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, and the IMF is committed to providing confidential support. If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, please contact:
· Domestic Abuse Prevention Program(DAPP): 24/7 hotline:+1-202-458-5800 | daprevention@worldbank.org
· IMF Family Association +1-202-623-7696 | imffa@imf.org
WHEN THE VICTIM IS NOT A U.S. CITIZEN OR PERMANENT RESIDENT
Fund spouses may find themselves isolated in a foreign country, and unable to leave an abusive home for fear of losing access to their G-4 visa and work authorization. But there is protection under U.S. immigration law for victims of domestic violence who have suffered “substantial physical or mental abuse” as the result of domestic violence. If the abuser is a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (LPR), the spouse victim may qualify for a self-petition to apply for an LPR visa without the help of the abuser. If the victim is not related to the abuser by marriage, or if the abuser is not a U.S. citizen or LPR, the victim may qualify for a “U” visa. Documented evidence of abuse is are required for both visas. Both visa options include children under age 21, as well as eligibility for work authorization. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney regarding these options. For more information, click here.
DOMESTIC ABUSE AND FUND STANDARDS OFCONDUCT
The Fund is strongly committed to raising awareness and providing support to victims of domestic abuse. To this end, we work closely with the World Bank, through the office of the Domestic Abuse Prevention Coordinator, to provide specialized counseling and referral, compliance with court orders, and limited financial support for legal aid for victims of domestic abuse who are either staff or spouses/partners. With regard to offenders, while the Fund respects the privacy of its staff members and does not wish to interfere with their personal lives, it does take very seriously a staff member’s violation of U.S. laws, including those pertaining to domestic abuse and violent behavior. Violations of local laws and other conduct that may reflect adversely on the integrity or reputation of the Fund may subject staff to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.