Advocacy Services for Violence and Abuse Victims

No one deserves to be abused or assaulted. Combating physical and sexual violence is a priority at the UMass Police Department. We believe in the right of all persons to live without fear, abuse, oppression and violence. We believe that abusers and perpetrators should be held accountable for their actions and we strive to promote deterrence, assist victims and interrupt the cycle of violence.

On-site Advocacy Services for Violence and Abuse Issues

If you are a member of the UMass community or have experienced relationship violence or abuse, sexual assault, or stalking on campus, a Civilian Advocate is available to provide confidential support and advocacy for you. The Advocate can also provide services for victims/survivors affiliated with the Amherst Police Department and has office hours at Center for Women & Community (formerly Everywoman’s Center).

What is a Civilian Advocate?

A Civilian Advocate is someone who is not a police officer but works on-site at the UMass and Amherst Police Departments to provide services for the community. The Advocate is an employee of the Center for Women and Community; they specialize in domestic violence, sexual assault and related issues.

Services

The Civilian Advocate provides confidential advocacy, support, safety planning, and referrals to victims/survivors after a crime has been reported to the police department. **They can also assist victims/survivors who have not reported a crime.** If you have questions about the legal system or what happens next in the process, they can help to find the answer and offer support along the way. You can arrange to meet with the Advocate at the UMass Police Department, Amherst Police Department, Center for Women & Community, and other locations where you would like support or accompaniment, including district court.

Hours and Contact Information

Advocates are available by appointment approximately 15 hours per week, and can also meet clients at the station at other times upon request.

Work cell phone:    Ally 413-270-0378 or Mariah 413-230-0691

 

This project was supported by Grant No. 2010-WE-AX-0028 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice.

The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

CONTACT

UMPD
585 East Pleasant Street
Amherst, MA 01003-9600

umpd@admin.umass.edu
413-545-2121 non-emergency
413-545-3111 emergency or 911
413-545-3113 fax

Tips

Call 413-577-TIPS (8477) or use our Anonymous Witness Form.