Launch of the “Self-confidence recovery day” in Marguerittes: “The objective is really to raise awareness”

Au total, six ateliers apportent des conseils sur des thématiques différentes. Midi Libre – Mikaël Anisset

An innovative initiative against domestic violence launched by the Family Protection House of the Gard gendarmerie.

This Wednesday, March 20, at the Louis Picard space in Marguerittes, there is talk of domestic violence. An unprecedented and pioneering day in the department was organized by the Family Protection House of the Gard gendarmerie.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a set of 6 workshops allow the public to inform themselves freely and for free, but also to regain self-confidence.

"Children are calling us"

"Domestic violence is part of our missions, says Major Isabelle Sabatier of the Gard departmental gendarmerie in charge of the project . We believe that the information we give to someone, whether they are fourteen, thirty or sixty, they will need it . Whether for him or for someone else."

This Wednesday morning, three second and first grade classes made the trip to also be made aware. Divided into groups of eight, the students listen attentively. "We sometimes have, in certain complicated situations, children who call us and who witness domestic violence. Being at the heart of the family plan, it’s important that they are aware and able to support their loved ones", confides Lieutenant-Colonel Eric Painset , second in command of the Gard gendarmerie group.

Regain confidence with simple gestures

Among the workshops – led for the most part by the Gard gendarmerie units – all aim to regain self-confidence, both physically and socially. With Lieutenant Charly, we learn in a fun way ways to defend ourselves: "Beyond the intervention phase, there is a prevention phase with techniques adapted to combat violence using everyday gestures." For example ? "Getting putting your hand in your hair to fix your hair, it's a gesture of self-defense since you're protecting your face."

Here, you don't need to be a great fighter or a top athlete. "The objective of this day is really to talk, raise awareness, and above all know the support systems that exist", recalls the lieutenant-colonel.