In recognition of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month in Queensland, local not-for profit organisation, United Synergies, is inviting Sunshine Coast locals to attend its Take A Stand #Together For Safer Families FREE event on Saturday 6 May at Noosaville Lions Park.
The event not only provides an important platform to educate and support people who are either experiencing or are affected by domestic violence, but to give families an opportunity to come together and celebrate what a ‘safe family’ means.
Domestic abuse impacts 1 in 3 women nationally and the Sunshine Coast region sits high in Queensland for reported incidents. The Sunshine Coast Vulnerable Persons Unit reported recently there were 56 domestic violence incidents in the Sunshine Coast district alone between Good Friday and Easter Monday this year.
United Synergies’ CEO, Christopher John says that an important step in changing the prevalence of domestic and family violence, is to create opportunities for safe conversations to take place that challenge the culture and attitudes that underpin violence.
“The Celebrating Safer Families event partners with Noosa Council and brings a range of community support services together with fun and family friendly activities encouraging conversations about healthy and unhealthy relationships in a safe and open environment,” said Mr John.
“We also understand that attending an event is not for everyone but we hope that the exposure of the event will prompt Noosa residents to seek the resources they need, or speak out if they know someone who needs support.”
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Engagement and Cultural Advisor from Relationships Australia, Deborah Bennet will be the keynote speaker for the day and will be sharing her knowledge and experience of domestic violence and how she now works with Relationship Australia to help build stringer families and more respectful relationships.
“The impact of domestic violence is far reaching and it is not only immediate family members who are affected. Violence has many different forms such as verbal, emotional, physical, social and financial abuse. It is important to educate that all members of the family and community members understand that there are alternatives and support available and it is possible to have respectful relationships and live safe, healthy and positive lives,” said Ms Bennet.
“I am looking forward to spending time with the Noosa community and in particular sharing a special part of the day when we release 20 doves to remember those who have been lost to domestic violence.”
United Synergies has been a valued Noosa community organisation since it began as the Noosa Accommodation Project in 1989, supporting homeless young people. Last year, United Synergies supported more than 2000 people to overcome life’s challenges and build better lives through the delivery of over 40 programs including child and family relationships support, education and employment support, assistance with homelessness, mental health and suicide bereavement.
End//
For media enquiries: Helen Perry, Fresh PR & Marketing, T:0431 065 964
