Safety Net/DV
Abuse crosses all socio-economic lines. We do not believe there is a higher incidence of abuse within polygamous communities or among polygamous families than in monogamous or single parent households. However, many polygamists fear reaching out to law enforcement or service providers to get help or resources for themselves or others, primarily because of the laws against polygamy (bigamy). Even offering support or assistance to a neighbor or a friend can bring risks to polygamous family members.
The resources below are organizations who have experience working with polygamous families and who we believe will provide appropriate support without prejudice:
Utah Safety Net:
Patricia L. Merkley, LCSW
Safety Net Coordinator
Family Support Center
(801) 487-7778 Ext. 1315
pat.merkley at familysupportcenter.org
Chelsea Gambles, CSW
Safety Net Case Manager, Southern Utah
Family Support Center
(801) 739-1824
chelsea.gambles at familysupportcenter.org
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From the UDVC website:
What can you do if you know or suspect someone is being abused?
If someone you know is being abused you need to first address any immediate safety needs. If the victim is currently in danger ask him/her if he/she wants you to call the police or an ambulance. Once a victim’s immediate safety needs have been met, the most important thing you can do is listen. It is important to relay to the victim that “No one deserves to be abused”, and that he/she is not alone. Do not tell the victim what to do or place any negative blame on his/her actions. Let the victim know she is not responsible for the abuse, and that only the abuser can stop the abusive behavior.
What domestic violence services are available?
For a complete and updated list of domestic violence services in the state of Utah, please call 1-800-897-LINK (5465) or visit the DV Linkline website. You may also visit our resources page; look under the domestic violence help and general information tab.
UDVC website: Utah Domestic Violence Coalition online
and the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition publication for victim’s resources
Domestic Violence Safety Plan
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