Picture: RAQUEL MUSTILLO
SERVICE providers and community members stood in solidarity against domestic violence at a morning tea held in Millicent on Tuesday.
Hosted by Centacare, Limestone Coast Domestic Violence Service and Unity Housing, the event was part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, a global initiative aimed at eliminating the insidious scourge within our society.
Staff from the South East Regional Community Health Service and Pangula Mannamurna joined domestic violence specialist services at the Millicent Civic and Arts Centre’s supper room.
Information on local services, including the recently released wallet-sized family safety card, was available for attendees to take.
Details on a trial scheme which helps people at risk of domestic violence identify whether their current or former partner has a history of relevant criminal offences was also available.
Limestone Coast Domestic Violence Service manager Susie Smith said the event was an important networking and information tool for local service providers.
She said the morning tea also provided local community members with information around accessing services in the region.
“The further you get away from Mount Gambier, the lower the community’s expectation there is a service out there to assist,” she said.
“By getting out to Millicent, we hope we can raise the profile and reach other outlying areas we do not often get a chance to go to.”
Ms Smith welcomed the cross-sector attendance, saying a holistic approach was necessary to combat domestic violence in the community.
“It is fantastic to see representatives from community health and mental health here,” she said.
“If a woman can discuss her issues with someone, whether they are a community nurse, mental health worker or another service provider, that person can make a referral to an appropriate agency they can all work together to provide a safety first response.”
If you require assistance contact the Domestic Violence Gateway on 1800 800 098 or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
In an emergency dial 000.
