Greater support and funding for victims of domestic violence in regional and rural communities is a priority for the newest branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) in Albury.
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The Albury Evening CWA Branch will launch its first annual Awareness Week campaign (September 5-12) on Saturday.
CWA’s 400 state branches want to inform communities throughout regional and rural NSW about the services available for those who have experienced domestic violence as well as raise funds for support.
Albury Evening CWA Branch president Kate Schilg said 19 out of the top 20 local government areas for domestic violence were in rural and regional NSW.
“Communities like Albury are known for being close-knit however, unfortunately, this can sometimes work against someone who is experiencing domestic violence,” Ms Schilg said.
“The services are often limited in regional areas and where they do exist, often there can be a personal connection with the emergency service provider, such as the local police officer, doctor or hospital worker.
“This can result in a reluctance to seek help by the person experiencing the violence or for that matter the person who is using the violence in their relationship.”
Albury Evening CWA Branch will host a stall selling tea and scones at the Albury LibraryMuseum on Saturday between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
The proceeds will be donated to Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia to operate the national 1800RESPECT phone and online counselling service, available to anyone in Australia whose life has been impacted by domestic violence or sexual assault.
Rape and Domestic Violence Services chief executive officer Karen Willis said funding was essential for 24 hour services to allow people to seek confidential help.
“We fielded some 55,000 calls in the last year from individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault, however a further 18,000 went unanswered due to a lack of funding and support,” Ms Willis said.
“Awareness of domestic violence and its terrible impacts are very much part of current community debate and we are very pleased to have the support of the CWA.
“Their reach into the heartland of our state provides a vital opportunity to raise awareness, improve services and change attitudes.”
Albury Evening CWA Branch held a successful winter dinner fundraiser in August.
For more details visit www.facebook.com/AlburyEveningCWABranch.
If you are experiencing domestic violence phone 1800 737 732.