Funchal: Domestic violence and bullying are a concern for the municipality

A study characterizing young people and families in the municipality of Funchal, carried out in 2024, indicates that 25% of respondents suffer from domestic violence and 30% from bullying, percentages that concern the municipality.

The study, carried out by the University of Porto and the Union of Women Alternative and Response (UMAR), in partnership with the municipality, was adapted into a book and presented this Tuesday in the Funchal Municipal Assembly room.

The president of UMAR, Joana Martins, explained that around 900 people were surveyed, both adults and young people, and variables such as safety, violence, bullying, mental health, family and professional balance, the time young people spend with their parents and on the internet, among others, were included in the research.

The official considered that more studies of this kind should be carried out, highlighting that, compared to the last one the association carried out, in 2025, there was "a negative evolution" in relation to domestic violence and bullying.

“We have 25% of people saying they suffer domestic violence in Funchal , we also have bullying with a very high percentage, 30% ”, he indicated.

"We believe these percentages require more detailed studies to reach more people and truly understand the reality, because we believe there are many unknown numbers," he added.

Joana Martins also highlighted security, stating that, “although there is some sense of insecurity in some areas […], in general people feel safe in Funchal.”

“Which ended up being a bit surprising for us, but it's a positive thing,” he added.

Regarding family and professional life, the president of UMAR noted that "there is a slight improvement in the sharing of household tasks," adding that she thought there would be greater progress in this area.

Councilwoman for Social Support, Helena Leal, also explained the importance and objectives of the study, highlighting that the numbers for bullying and domestic violence are the most worrying.

"I'm concerned about some issues related to, for example, bullying and domestic violence, which are not really new, but which also raise awareness of a concern that should be shared by everyone and in which our municipality should also be included," he said.

The mayor emphasized, however, that these areas of intervention are not the municipality's sole responsibility, but emphasized that the Council has been working in the area of ​​prevention with both the young and the elderly.

"And that has been our concern, and the studies serve this purpose: to map, to alert us to areas that should receive attention, but also to validate some of the work that has been done and to let us know that there are paths that are being well followed and that they should continue to be followed in the same way," he pointed out.