Taking a Stand Against Domestic Violence: A Focus on Safety and Child Protection
In New South Wales (a state of Australia) the Department of Health recognises domestic violence to be a serious health concern. Twenty three percent (23%) of women in Australia who have ever been in a married or de-facto relationship experienced violence by their partner at some time during their relationship. The Department of Health estimates that 88-92% of victims of domestic violence are women and also recognises children as co-victims of domestic violence in both direct and indirect ways.
The purpose of this workshop is to outline the strengths based model of practice developed and utilised by The St George Domestic Violence Counselling Service (SGDVCS). The SGDVCS is a specialist social work service for women, young people and children based in a community health setting in Southern Sydney. We are the only domestic violence specific service in community health in NSW. Approximately 50% of the clients seen be the service are from culturally and linguistically diverse background.
When working with clients affected by domestic violence, there is a tendency to work primarily with women affected by the violence. The SGDVCS utilises a different model. The model developed by the team highlights the importance of a focus of safety, child protection and strengthening the relationship between carers, young people and children. The team recognises the importance of offering an independent service to children and young people in order to provide them with a voice for their experience and needs.
The workshop will facilitate a discussion about the model developed by the service. The team will identify the range of skills and strategies used to assist clients to focus on safety. The team will also provide a demonstration of tools and resources used with women, young people and children.
The workshop stresses the need for practitioners working with clients affected by domestic violence to recognise the significant links between domestic violence, child protection and safety of children, young people and women.