Starting in fiscal 2016, Fukuoka Prefecture will establish a new hotline and counseling service for victims of domestic violence within the LGBT community. 3,387 cases of domestic violence were reported in Fukuoka Prefecture in 2014, including cases of domestic abuse within homosexual couples. The hotline will run twice a month, and for urgent cases, victims can be taken into protective custody at hotels. Apparently, this is the first initiative of its kind in Japan. Fukuoka Prefecture has dedicated ¥4,450,000 to the initiative in this year’s fiscal budget to cover expenses. It is hoped that this program will encourage those suffering from domestic violence to seek professional help. Fukuoka Pref. will also set up a hotline for male victims of domestic violence in heterosexual relationships, the hotline will run 3 times/month. Source: Yomiuri Shimbun, 3/15
