Specialist family and domestic violence service DVassist is launching a campaign letting people in regional WA know it’s ok to ask for help.
The campaign which launched yesterday (22/11/20) is designed to encourage those in regional, rural, and remote towns to pick up the phone and call its confidential counselling service if they experience family and domestic violence.
DVassist hopes the campaign incorporating television commercials and social media will help challenge the commonly held view that ‘what happens behind closed doors is no one else’s business.’
Client Services Manager, Inez, said It’s ok to ask for help was launching in the lead up to the Christmas/New Year period when police and crisis services traditionally report a spike in domestic violence related incidents.
“There can be increased pressure for visitation rights or unplanned or forced contact with family members at this time of the year which can be incredibly distressing for people who have experienced domestic violence,” she said.
“While the additional expenses and higher alcohol consumption associated with the festive season are not the cause of domestic violence, they can increase the frequency and severity of the violence that is already occurring.”
Inez said the DVassist domestic violence helpline is operated by qualified and experienced family and domestic violence counsellors who bring strong working knowledge from regional, rural, and remote communities to their role.
“Our counsellors understand the genuine fears people in regional communities have about seeking help for family and domestic violence,” she said.
“Their knowledge of the different regional areas means they can work alongside a person to develop a safety plan based on their individual circumstances and the barriers they face in accessing support.”
The DVassist telephone support service is available on free-call 1800 080 083. It operates from 10am to 7pm, Monday to Friday.
DVassist.org.au is a 24/7 online information directory with services and advice tailored to specific regions.
