Program at Brigham & Women's helping domestic violence survivors

BOSTON - A program at Brigham and Women's Hospital is creating change when it comes to patient care.

One domestic violence survivor credits the program, called "Passageway," with saving her life.

"Jill" wanted to share her story as a survivor of domestic violence, but asked us to conceal her identity because she still fears for her life.

"What's unique about the Passageways program here at BWH is that it's in every department," said Jill. "An advocate can meet a patient anywhere here on campus."

Jill says that, after considering self-harm, she connected with Brigham and Women's "Passageway" Program. She says the program's 24-hour hotline service saved her life.

Program advocates are now working to educate hospital staff on "trauma-informed care"- where hospital staff create opportunities for patients to seek help.

Domestic violence advocates are available around the clock. There's also a 24-hour hotline, a service Jill credits to saving her life.

"They were super helpful because I could call them at 1, 2, 3 o'clock in the morning when I couldn't sleep, when I thought I might hurt myself, when I couldn't deal with life," said Jill. "They talked to me. They talked me through it. It helped a lot.

Right now, Passageway members are working to educate each one of the thousands of BWH staff about trauma based care when it comes to domestic violence.

I know that it's hard to leave because you're scared," said Jill. "I was scared because when I left I felt like the abuse - not physical abuse but mental abuse got worse. Be strong. Look for your resources."

You can find more information about the program by clicking on this link.

Cox Media Group