As the COVID-19 outbreak got worse, there was a noticeable trend on the rise of domestic violence cases. According to statistics, from January to May 2021, the number of reported domestic violence cases in New Taipei City increased by 7.3% compared with those from the same period in 2020. Similarly, the number of nationwide domestic violence cases reported between January and May 2021 increased by 9.45% compared with those from the same period in the previous year. In response, New Taipei City has launched the following four violence prevention strategies under the pandemic: (1) Double the provision of resources and companionship: in light of the economic effect of the pandemic, Social Welfare Department’s relief plan, necessities bank, and material packages from village chiefs were combined to provide those affected with various economic subsidies as quickly as possible; (2) Uninterrupted sheltering services: 24/7 emergency rescue and sheltering services were provided in a timely manner for individuals who require accommodation; (3) Pandemic prevention hotels for victims of violence under home-based quarantine or isolation: victims of violence undergoing home isolation, quarantine, and pandemic prevention processes were connected to free stays at pandemic prevention hotels; (4) Involvement in collaborative care: village care and support were strengthened through the cooperative efforts of the police, civil affairs, and village chiefs to prevent family isolation and maintain the physical and mental wellbeing of domestic violence victims.

Competent Authority：Social Welfare Department