Toolkit for Frontline Workers to Tackle Domestic Violence
16 November 2015 at 10:38 am
The Turnbull Government has launched an online toolkit for frontline workers to help them better recognise the signs of sexual assault, domestic violence and enable them to respond well.
1800RESPECT, a service funded by the Department of Social Services, announced the release of the toolkit to coincide with the global 16 Days of Activism campaign to end violence against women, which will run from 25 November to 10 December 2015.
Minister for Women, Senator Michaelia Cash, said frontline workers were often the first person a woman discloses her experience of domestic violence to, which is why it was important to empower them with appropriate tools, information and guidance.
“Sexual assault, domestic and family violence has a devastating impact in Australia, with one in four women having experienced physical or sexual violence by a partner, boyfriend or date,” Senator Cash said.
“Every day, Australian police deal on average with an estimated 657 domestic violence matters across the country.
“These women could be your clients, your patients, your students or your colleagues – and you could encounter a woman experiencing violence in your work each and every day.
“That’s why 1800RESPECT has launched its frontline workers toolkit, equipped with tools and information to help workers identify signs, offer knowledge-based support, and connect women to the most appropriate services.”
Developed in consultation with experts, the 1800RESPECT online toolkit has information on good practice, educational videos with specialists, webinars, tools and resources, and apps. Workers can access the full toolkit, or tailor a toolkit according to their own learning and development needs.
Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter, said the new toolkit would play a vital role in staff learning and development programs.
“The toolkit has useful tools like the Daisy app that connects women to specialist support services; videos on safety planning and risk assessment; and a resilience training programme to help ensure staff also take care of themselves,” Porter said.
“We are encouraging all relevant organisations – big and small – to download the toolkit and share it with employees and other organisations.
“Together, we can play a role in better supporting and increasing the safety of women and their children.”
1800RESPECT’s frontline worker toolkit will be available from Tuesday 16 November, 2015 at www.1800RESPECT.org.au/toolkit.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au.
