We will probably not teach you anything by writing that domestic violence still affects too many women in France. Often financially dependent on their violent spouse, they struggle to leave home and rebuild their lives. To make its small contribution, Crédit Mutuel has decided to act. From July 1, its 4,300 local funds and CIC agencies will offer free, for one year, a bank account dedicated to women victims of domestic violence. The particularity of this account is to be opened in the sole name of the beneficiary, completely decoupled from that of their spouse or marital home. A protective measure which aims to cut all financial ties with the perpetrator of the violence and to secure the victim’s resources.
The account will come with basic banking services: a payment card, the possibility of making transfers and direct debits, as well as an overdraft authorization to cover initial expenses. Its opening will be facilitated by a simplified procedure taking into account the constraints of women victims. At the same time, Crédit Mutuel announces that it is mobilizing its societal dividend by releasing €300,000 over three years to support the National Women’s Solidarity Federation and facilitate the provision of emergency accommodation in each department.
A collective mobilization
With this system, Crédit Mutuel follows in the footsteps of Caisse d’Épargne Bretagne Pays de Loire. Since last year, it has been successfully testing a free individual account for two years for victims, accessible via a dedicated telephone line. Beyond the financial aspect, the challenge is obviously to allow these women to reclaim their lives and regain their autonomy. By securing their own resources, these solidarity banking offers give them the means to leave the home where a violent spouse lives, to provide for themselves and their children, and to start a new life.
These two initiatives should lead to others in the banking sector. Especially since they are part of a broader movement of mobilization of public and private actors to protect and support victims. Thus, since last December, female victims have been able to benefit from emergency assistance from the CAF or the MSA. Paid in one installment within 3 to 5 days, its minimum amount is €240 and varies depending on family situation and income. To qualify, simply provide a document less than 12 months old attesting to the violence suffered (complaint, protection order, report to the prosecutor). At the same time, a New Start Pack provides global and coordinated support from a single referent. Different professionals (CAF, Pôle Emploi, associations, etc.) are mobilizing to speed up the procedures for victims and the opening of their rights. Listening devices such as 3919 or 116 006, as well as emergency accommodation solutions via 115, complete this arsenal.