Supporting victims of family violence through COVID-19

THE Sexual Assault and Family Violence (SAFV) Centre will continue to support the Barwon region throughout the coronavirus pandemic, with the prevalence of family and intimate partner violence expected to spike during the public health crisis.

According to Victoria Police data, there were 233 recorded incidences of family violence on the Surf Coast last year.

The SAFV Centre chief executive officer Helen Bolton said during times of crisis, the severity and frequency of family violence could increase.

“We are seeing more people working from their homes, children may not be able to attend school or childcare, families are facing unemployment and additional pressures such as increased financial insecurity that can add to an already abusive relationship and, for many women and children, can present additional barriers to seeking support or leaving an abusive relationship.”

Ms Bolton said family violence could present itself as any behaviour that was controlling, threatening and coercive, and took many forms, including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, financial, technology and spiritual abuse.

She said although violence could be perpetrated by both males and females, an overwhelming number of family violence and sexual assault acts were committed by men against women.

“In Australia, an average of one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner.

“Family violence is the leading cause of preventable death and disability for women aged between 15 and 44 years.

“It is concerning that this rate will likely increase due to the changes brought about by COVID-19 that results in more families remaining in their home, where women in abusive relationships may be isolated from their extended families and support networks.”

Ms Bolton said family violence was preventable, particularly through the promotion of gender equality.

“Gender equality exists when people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities.

“We can all take action to bring about equality in our homes, workplaces, schools and social groups to promote respectful relationships and achieve gender equality.”

Ms Bolton said services were available to people of all ages, gender identities and cultures.

“When you contact our service, we will ask you about your current situation, talk to you about any safety concerns or risks you are facing, and help you to decide what support you would like.

“You do not have to be in a high-risk situation to access our service. Emotional abuse, control and fear can be just as harmful as other forms of abuse.

“The SAFV Centre provides 24-hour crisis care and support for anyone who has experienced a recent sexual assault or women and children experiencing family violence.”

You can contact The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre via email at [email protected] or phone 5222 4318.

People experiencing domestic or family violence should phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), SafeSteps Family Violence Response Centre on 1800 015 188 and Triple Zero (000) in emergencies.