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Here’s How To Help End Domestic Violence, Right Now

Here's How to Help End Domestic Violence, Right Now
Here's How to Help End Domestic Violence, Right Now

Photo: Getty Images

Most of us aren’t aware of don’t know the key signs that a friend or colleague might be experiencing of domestic violence abuse in their relationship.

Print out this PDF and stick it up in your office kitchen, in public bathrooms or at university.

Talk to your partner, family and friends
Domestic violence thrives in a culture where women are not as held with the same respect as men. Your boyfriend, husband and male family members can start changing that by saying ‘no’ to sexist jokes or language.

Highlight to the men in your life that any language or behaviour that degrades women is contributing to a culture that supports violence against women and allows domestic violence to flourish.

Ask them to think about how they would feel if it was you that was being abused.

Talk to your child’s school
Contact your kid’s school and ask them whether they run a program like Love Bites, White Ribbon’s Breaking the Silence, or healthy relationships education.

Encouraging schools to instill a culture of respectful relationships and getting kids of all ages to talk about what a healthy relationship looks like will help break the cycle of violence in our communities.

If not, ask them why not? Encourage other parents to also speak up.

Talk to your boss
A number of large and small companies, like the NAB and Telstra, now offer domestic violence leave to their employees. This demonstrates that employers recognise their responsibility in breaking the cycle of abuse and sends out a strong message of support to victims of domestic violence. Initiatives to change workplace culture can include giving employees leave to attend court or get support as well as educating all staff about what domestic violence is and where to get help.

Ask your boss if your workplace offers domestic violence leave. If they don’t, ask them why not?

Ask your boss if they would undertake a Workplace Accreditation Program – there are a number of good programs suitable for different types of organisations.

Get clicking and giving
Have quality household goods, unwanted gifts, new clothes or kids toys? Women and children leaving domestic violence often leave their homes with nothing. Think about what you could give to others who really need it. The usual rule is that if you wouldn’t give it to a friend or family member as a gift it probably isn’t appropriate to donate.

Contact:
Givit

Every Little Bit Helps

Assit A Sista

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse in their relationship call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) from anywhere in Australia 24/7.