Twenty high-risk domestic violence victims have been issued panic alarms in the first month since the Victim Support Agency (VSA) launched the new initiative in July, with the devices being described as discreet but a powerful lifeline in dangerous situations.

Figures provided to The Malta Independent on Sunday by the agency show that 18 of the recipients were women - 16 living in Malta and two in Gozo - while the other two were men residing in Malta.

Another two persons refused the device, and in another three cases the alarms were withdrawn after the victim forgave their aggressor. Two of the latter were in Malta and the other in Gozo.

The alarms are deliberately small and unobtrusive so that they can be carried or worn without attracting attention. The kind of device in use in Malta was selected following months of research into different models.

They are designed for use in situations where calling the police would be unsafe or impossible. Once activated, the device transmits the victim's GPS location to the Malta Police Force, prompting an immediate and coordinated response involving trained risk assessors from Aġenzija Appoġġ and the VSA's own dedicated personnel. The system can also flag a potential alert if the device is switched off unexpectedly or remains inactive for a prolonged period, ensuring that even subtle signs of danger are not ignored.

VSA chief executive officer Brian Farrugia stressed that the alarm itself is just one part of a larger framework. "The device on its own is not the service but the tool," he said. "It is backed by IT systems, trained human resources and a multiagency approach so that when a victim is in trouble, they are never left alone or abandoned." Before receiving the device, each eligible victim takes part in an orientation session to understand how it works and how to maintain it. Over the coming weeks, the agency will continue monitoring the rollout closely to ensure smooth operation and to encourage responsible use.

The panic alarm was announced in Budget 2025 and is part of Malta's Third National Strategy and Action Plan Against Domestic Violence, which runs until 2028. It is intended to strengthen immediate protection for those most at risk, complementing existing services such as the 116006, a 24/7 helpline. While not an emergency number, the helpline offers emotional support and guidance, staffed by trained officers who regularly speak to people unsure whether their experiences amount to abuse. These conversations often lead to victims being encouraged to seek help and report incidents where necessary.

Another measure run by the agency is the Domestic Violence Prevention Form, which enables people to check whether their partner has a criminal history related to domestic violence. If a record exists, the information is shared with the police, who then carry out interviews and offer advice. Victims are not compelled to leave the relationship but are supported in exploring their options. VSA also provides legal services to help victims understand their rights and childcare facilities for children whose parents are in court or unable to attend school, ensuring their safety and wellbeing during difficult periods.

Since its establishment four years ago, the VSA has supported more than 4,000 victims, building a multi-layered network of services that work together to protect people from harm. The decision to launch the panic alarm came after an in-depth review of international practices and available technology. The agency prioritised finding a model that would be discreet enough not to provoke suspicion from an abuser, but reliable enough to work under pressure.

The introduction of the alarm follows the opening of Malta's first Domestic Violence Hub in February 2024, a walk-in centre providing immediate support from a team of professionals. Plans are already in place to open similar hubs in Gozo and Mtarfa to increase accessibility for victims across the islands.

Early figures from the rollout suggest the alarm is being issued to the right people. Eighty per cent of those assessed as eligible accepted the device, with a refusal rate of just 8%. Only three terminations were recorded, all linked to victims reconciling with their aggressors. For those currently carrying it, the alarm provides a silent way to call for help during a dangerous incident, giving them a vital sense of security.

Farrugia stressed that while the alarm is a valuable addition, it is not a complete solution. It is part of a wider network of prevention, support and legal action. Its value lies in its ability to connect victims instantly to the authorities, ensuring that when they reach for help, the response is swift and coordinated.

For Malta, the rollout marks a significant development in its domestic violence response. In recent years, the country has expanded its victim-support services through new legislation, prevention mechanisms and the creation of dedicated facilities. The panic alarm is a clear example of how technology can be integrated into this framework to enhance safety without replacing the personal, human-led support victims need.

Over the coming months, VSA will be reviewing how the alarms are used in practice and whether adjustments are needed to improve the service. The agency's aim is to maintain a short learning curve so that victims can rely on the device without hesitation. While it cannot prevent violence, its presence may deter further harm and offers an immediate link to help when it is most urgently needed.

Domestic violence remains a persistent challenge in Malta, but the early success of the panic alarm initiative suggests it could become an important part of the national strategy. Advocates believe that if combined with consistent emotional support, legal aid and prevention work, it has the potential to save lives. For now, the focus remains on refining its use, ensuring that every activation triggers the fastest and most effective response possible.

Farrugia summed up the agency's position simply: "This is an additional layer of protection for those in extreme danger. It is not the only measure, but it is a step towards ensuring no victim is left without support when they need it most."