Criminal Justice Toolkit

Start by Believing is a public awareness and action campaign created by End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI). It is designed to end the cycle of silence and change the way we respond to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and child sexual abuse. Specifically, the campaign focuses on transforming personal and professional responses to victim disclosures, by expressing belief and support rather than doubt, shame, or blame.

This toolkit is designed for criminal justice professionals, to help translate the Start by Believing philosophy into victim-centered and trauma-informed policies, protocols, and everyday practices. The toolkit includes training bulletins, webinars, and other resources, to introduce the Start by Believing approach and describe the role of criminal justice professionals.