Ponta Delgada opens the Azores' first APAV support office inside the justice system
A new victim-support office now operates alongside Ponta Delgada's DIAP, with an extension in Ribeira Grande and specialist APAV support for victims of domestic violence.
Archived after its publication day. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.
Archived 12 September 2026The office can connect support more closely with a victim's justice process. It does not replace emergency police or medical help when someone is in immediate danger.
- It is the first APAV GAV DIAP outside mainland Portugal and the country's 15th justice-system victim office.
- The service is managed by APAV under cooperation with the Justice Ministry and Public Prosecutor's Office.
- The Ribeira Grande extension broadens access on São Miguel.
Support closer to the legal process
The office provides specialist information and accompaniment to victims, with domestic violence a central focus. APAV says its established Ponta Delgada service supported 377 victims in 2025 and recorded 704 crimes or forms of violence.
Those figures describe the service's caseload, not the prevalence of violence across the whole island. Individual support is confidential and depends on the person's circumstances.
Use the right route for the situation
Someone in immediate danger should call 112 or seek a safe place rather than wait for an office appointment. For support and information, use APAV's verified channels or the DIAP contact route.
A friend or family member can help preserve messages, documents and safe contact details, but should not confront an alleged abuser or make decisions that increase risk.
What you can do now.
- 01
Call 112 if there is immediate danger.
- 02
Use APAV or the DIAP's official channel for specialist support.
- 03
Keep contact and evidence arrangements safe and private.
Have a place we should experience?
Invite the Hub for a hosted visit, propose a story, plan a clearly labelled campaign or apply for a business profile.