How a Simple Room Renovation Offers Comfort to Victims of Domestic Violence

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When Kane County Supervisor Christy DeChristopher took charge of the Family Division Room, also known as Room 149, she started by surveying it. The area is dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence begin the process of obtaining a Civil Emergency Order of Protection. DeChristopher looked at the lighting, where people were told to wait, how they were welcomed, where they filled out paperwork and level of privacy. 

“They come here to get an order of protection or a no stalking contact order and may have just left a police department and don't know what to expect," said DeChristopher.  “Before we had a large window that people would approach, and others could overhear information that people were sharing," according to DeChristopher. “There were steel benches and it wasn't very inviting."

DeChristopher quickly found a solution in a few simple improvements to Room 149 that prioritized the comfort of those seeking assistance.

“We created a more supportive atmosphere by improving the flow of the room, giving people a welcoming starting point and adding additional space to sit down with a place to fill out paperwork," said DeChristopher. “We also introduced private one-on-one spaces for victims to talk with Clerks that replaced the previous practice of shared public space."

Kane County Court Administrator Andrea O'Brien, says the renovation to Room 149 is part of a push to make court buildings more user friendly.  “We have the ability to design a layout that is understandable, ensures accessibility and offers a sense of helpfulness to all visitors," said O'Brien

If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence, you can find resources by clicking here https://sao.kanecountyil.gov/Pages/DomesticViolence.aspx.