Successful Launch of AinoAid™ Chatbot at IMPROVE Event in Berlin
On August 21st, 2024, a significant project event took place at Rathaus Schöneberg in Berlin, where S.I.G.N.A.L. e.V. and the EU-funded project IMPROVE hosted a meeting focused on exchanging best practices to enhance access to support services for victims of domestic and sexualised violence. The event, titled “When Victims Seek Help...”, brought together over 140 frontline responders from various sectors, including police, health, social services, and justice, to share new tools, scientific findings, and best practices in combating domestic violence.
Launching the German chatbot version
One of the key highlights of the event was the successful launch of the German version of AinoAid™ chatbot, a 24/7 online tool designed to assist victims of domestic and sexualised violence. The chatbot, co-developed as part of the IMPROVE project, was introduced by Anna Juusela from the Finnish startup We Encourage. Attendees praised the innovative approach of AinoAid™, recognising its potential to provide low-key immediate, accessible support to those in need.
Giving insights into the research and work done in IMPROVE
Dr. Catharina Vogt, a psychologist from the German Police University (DHPOL), presented compelling findings from interviews with women affected by violence conducted during the IMPROVE project, shedding light on the hurdles they face when seeking help. These insights were crucial in understanding the gaps in current support systems and the need for improved interventions.
The event also featured a presentation by Prof. Dr. Dr. Bettina Pfleiderer from the University of Münster, who introduced the European Training Platform on Domestic Violence for professionals dealing with domestic violence cases. The platform aims to enhance the skills of frontline workers, ensuring that they are better equipped to respond to the needs of victims and contains input from the three projects IMPRODOVA, IMPROVE and VIPROM. Reflecting on the importance of the event, Prof. Pfleiderer stated, “This meeting of domestic violence frontline responders from the police, health, social, and justice sectors demonstrated the high importance of sharing and discussing new tools, scientific findings, and best practices. This kind of mutual exchange is the key to reducing the prevalence of domestic violence.”
Natalie Köpsel, a psychologist and research associate at the German Police University (DHPOL), presented key findings from interviews with professionals in the field. Her insights into the factors influencing effective intervention in domestic violence cases underscored the importance of continually refining support strategies.
Clothesline Project t-shirt stating "Right to non-violence and health, always & everywhere for everyone."
Clothesline Project exhibition
In addition to the presentations, the event marked the first German presentation of IMPROVE’s version of the Clothesline Project, a worldwide campaign that allows victims and survivors of domestic violence to share their stories and hope-inspiring thoughts through art on t-shirts. The exhibit provided a poignant reminder of the real-life impact of domestic violence, further highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions.
Next steps in helping the ones affected by domestic violence
As the event concluded, participants highlighted the promising potential of collaborative efforts like IMPROVE to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by violence.
With the successful launch of the German AinoAid™ and the continued development of targeted interventions, the IMPROVE project is well-positioned to lead the way in improving access to support and reducing the prevalence of domestic violence across Europe.
Angelika May and Hilde Hellbernd – who have many years of experience in the intervention work of SIGNAL e.V. – are delighted that the presentation of the EU project and the AinoAid™ website has aroused so much interest among the interdisciplinary audience of experts. “We hope that the AinoAid™ website as a new component will be used and look forward to the feedback.”
