The Cambridge Police Department has embraced a trauma-informed approach to working with victims of domestic and gender-based violence. In addition to training personnel in this approach, the department recently transformed one of its interview rooms to accommodate and be more supportive of gender-based violence victims who come to the police station. The room has been repainted to softer colors, and enhanced with new lighting and furniture.
In late September, the police department received a set of care packages donated by the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC). These kits, which include water bottles, blankets, hard candy, fidget toys and tissues, will be provided to survivors and the families of domestic and gender-based violence to help comfort them as they recount difficult experiences.