DOMESTIC and family violence was in the spotlight on Sunday, 4 May as the Anglican Parish of Nambucca Valley held a free community meeting at the Nambucca RSL.
Guest speaker at the event was Reverend Tracy Lauersen from Tasmania, who serves as the National Program Manager for the Anglican Church’s Families and Culture Commission.
The Commission is tasked with providing training and resources to help church communities prevent violence and support those who have experienced it.
The discussion focused on two questions: “Why is domestic violence so prevalent?” and “What can we do about it?”.
“About 45 people are now better informed after exploring some of the complexities of domestic violence,” a Parish spokesperson said.
“Those present are now thinking of how each of us can work towards a better future where everyone is safe and can flourish.”
Reverend Lauersen, who attended the Parish’s Nambucca service on Sunday morning, said the problem of domestic violence has been “hidden in plain sight” for generations.
“Victims have been blamed or dismissed,” she said.
“Violence has been minimised or excused.
“People who have chosen violence have not been stopped.”
The 1800RESPECT website offers suggestions on how to support someone experiencing domestic and family violence.
● In an emergency or if someone is in danger now, call 000 immediately
● Believe them and take their fears seriously. This is important no matter what you think of the person or people who hurt them.
● Listen without interrupting or judging.
● Never blame the person experiencing the violence for what has happened to them. Violence is never OK.
● Don’t make excuses for the person who has hurt them.
● Understand that they may not be ready or it may not be safe to leave. Don’t try to force them to do what you think is best
● Remember that domestic and family violence is not just physical.
● Help in practical ways, with transport, appointments, child minding, or a place to escape to.
Visit https://1800respect.org.au/
By Jen HETHERINGTON
