Implementation period: January 2025 – June 2026
Funded under the “Strong” program of the Bulgarian Fund for Women
The project “Stronger Together: A Network for the Protection and Support of Women and Girls Affected by Violence” aims to establish and strengthen sustainable regional mechanisms for coordinated response to cases of domestic violence in Bulgaria, with a focus on the regions of Pernik and Kardzhali. The initiative builds on the long-standing experience of the PULSE Foundation in providing support to women and girls who have experienced violence, and promotes effective cooperation among institutions - social, health, police, judicial, educational structures, and other organizations involved in supporting survivors of violence.
The project focuses on three key areas:
- improving coordination between institutions;
- strengthening the capacity of professionals working with survivors of violence;
- ensuring access to quality social and psychological support for vulnerable women and girls.
Planned activities
- Analysis of existing mechanisms for interinstitutional cooperation and identification of gaps and opportunities for improvement.
- Updating the regional coordination mechanism in Pernik and developing the first mechanism in Kardzhali, with active participation of local institutions and organizations.
- Regional meetings and consultations with representatives of the justice system, Ministry of Interior, social and health services, educational institutions, and NGOs for the implementation of the mechanism.
- Trainings for professionals from both regions aimed at strengthening interinstitutional cooperation and applying gender-sensitive approaches.
Provision of direct support to vulnerable women and girls – individual counseling, crisis intervention, referrals to services, and more.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the Bulgarian Women's Fund and the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the P.U.L.S. Foundation and do not necessarily reflect those of the BFW, the EU, the European Commission's Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers, or the EC. Neither the BFW, the EU, nor the EC and its structures can be held responsible for them.
News
02.09.2025 Strong Together: Analysis and New Mechanisms for Protection from Violence