Metropolitan Family Services’ Post

And this is exactly why we need to be highlighting coercive control as an overarching tactic, and then as practitioners and responders utilising the appropriate tools to record and document patterns of harm, impacts and consequences. And supporting it all with the appropriate legislation. Most family violence doesn't consist of bruises and broken bones, or as this post states "emergency room records". And yes, it is still a tragedy that we have to spend hours and hours collating evidence to support a prosecution, but that is present in all aspects of the law. So, let's make sure if we have a process to adhere to that we blimin well get it right in practice and response in the first instance, so that primary victims voices are raised, heard and honoured, and do not get lost amongst the judicial chaos. With the appropriate legislation, coupled with increases in workforce development and capability, social and community awareness we can support victim safety, as well as the support the appropriate levels of offender accountability and rehabilitation. This is not about punitive response; it is about an appropriate healing pathway for all.

We need to see a quantum leaps in the area of DV. The incremental changes are not saving lives.

Domestic violence grips Washington County, NY, with its pervasive reach impacting countless lives. Recognizing the diverse forms of abuse and their legal repercussions is paramount for victims seeking solace and community-wide prevention efforts. Delve into our exploration of prevalent domestic violence types in Washington County and the legalities involved. From physical assault, which can lead to severe consequences under NY law, to the subtle yet damaging realms of emotional and financial abuse, understanding these dynamics is crucial. Join the movement to break the cycle of abuse by spreading awareness, seeking legal recourse, and offering support to survivors. #EndDomesticViolence #WashingtonCountyNY #LegalAid #BreakTheCycle #EmpowerSurvivors

Learn how survivors of domestic abuse can get help and empower themselves. Explore the role of technology, community, and the legal system in tackling this crucial issue.

When we see horrific daily examples of domestic violence, it is common to feel both shocked and helpless. Therefore, when there is a call to action, it is worth taking part. #DVNSW has launched a petition, and it isn't so much about a quick signature, as it is looking at each element and seeing how we can each "sign up" to and deliver on all its principles. Good work #DeliaDonovan and team. #domesticviolenceawareness #familysafety #Womenssafety https://lnkd.in/g_22Wifc

May is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and at Griffiths Parry Lawyers we're committed to raising awareness and supporting those affected by DV. We see firsthand the devastating effect domestic violence has on our Sunshine Coast families, which is why we're dedicated to providing compassionate legal support to those in need. This month let's educate ourselves on the different types of domestic violence: physical, emotional, financial, and more, so we can recognise the signs. Let's stand together against domestic violence and create a safer, more supportive community for all. For more information on the types of domestic violence: https://lnkd.in/eFDn4Yjb If someone you know is experiencing or at risk of experiencing domestic, family, or sexual violence call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au In an emergency, call 000. #domesticviolence #domesticviolenceawareness #DFV #familylaw #GPLaw

The New Act introduces important amendments to the Old Domestic Violence Act. For example, it broadens the existing definition of Domestic Violence to include spiritual abuse, elder abuse, coercive and controlling behaviour. #holidayhero #smartheart #life #protection

This week is #NationalCrimeVictimsRightsWeek, an annual week of action to advance victims' rights across the country. This year, Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice is elevating a right that gets overlooked too often – the right to heal. What does that look like? Check this article out to find out and TY Allen Arthur for writing this in-depth piece! https://lnkd.in/grfpA9Se

The family courts intended to bring all family matter-related matters together as a cluster within the courts, specialized courts. If you were in an abusive relationship, the chances are you will have cases in more than one court. The abuse does not stop, it continues post-relationship, just differently as they no longer have direct contact and control, it becomes more subtle and covert. This is where the challenge is, the cover forms of abuse are not well known or understood. While in a relationship the victim was threatened that if they ever left, they would leave with the clothes on their back and possibly face homelessness. The victim does not initially believe it but when it is repeated often enough the victim realizes it is a possibility and stays until it is untenable, often when their lives are in danger. How does it manifest post-relationship? Often the first thing that happens is money is cut off. This would require having to 'beg' for money for shelter and food as basic needs and the other financial needs of the children if they have also moved out. Asking for financial assistance could be met with; 👉Speak to my lawyer, 👉I will not give you a cent, 👉Take me to court, 👉Bring the children back, 👉I will get an interdict against you for harassment, 👉You left, your problem, 👉Speak to my girlfriend. Other behaviours include; 👉Stalking, 👉Workplace harassment, 👉Work sabotage, 👉Cyber abuse, 👉Bad-mouthing you to friends and family, 👉Threatens to release sexually explicit material, 👉Using spyware to track you and have access to your devices. 👉If you report the behaviour there will be dire consequences, 👉They will kill you. Most victims DO NOT IMMEDIATELY apply for a protection order, it is only when the abuse escalates or it is ongoing. If there was multiple forms of abuse in relationship there is a greater chance of it being classified as 'high conflict' and you are advised to get a lawyer. Domestic violence is treated as a separate issue unrelated to co-parenting and maintenance and diminished during divorces. In fact, victims are coerced (forced) to withdraw protection orders for the sake of moving on and reaching 'amicable' solutions to VERY COMPLEX abuse. Is Gender-Based Violence, Domestic Violence, Intimate Partner Violence, and Femicide only a PANDEMIC during 16Days? During the President's Speech? The research on the impacts of Domestic Violence on children is ignored but we hear "Just because they abused you, it does not make them a bad parent or an abusive parent" 'Abuse' is cherry-picked to suit particular professionals that are financially benefitting from the status quo. The courts are inconsistent in interpreting and implementing the Domestic Violence Act. Until EVERYBODY understands Domestic Violence properly we will not see a change in the DV needle. Domestic Violence is the elephant in the room. You can read the full article on my blog

Leaving the relationship is just the first step to seeking a life free from violence. At CNV we are here to help support you and your family on that journey. A significant barrier for many victim survivors seeking safety and wellbeing is how we, as a society and our systems respond to family and gendered violence. This is why CNV, alongside many other specialist organisations, public and victim survivors advocate to change laws and legislation that actively places the focus back on the safety and wellbeing of victim survivors. Our voices matter, and they are being heard. This year alone: Victoria has introduced the Affirmative Consent Law, and soon Non-Fatal Strangulation will become a stand-alone offence. At the national level, the Federal Government heard our voices and has made amendments to the Family Law Act that better recognises the impacts of family violence on family law proceedings, and importantly has repealed the 'presumption of shared parental responsibility’. These small steps, have the potential to make positive changes to women, children and diverse community victim survivors. If you, or someone you know is experiencing violence, we’re here to help. If you are concerned about your behaviour towards your family, we’re here to help. With local, specialised family and sexual violence prevention and response services, we are here to help local communities live a life free from violence. Call: Centre for Non-Violence: 1800 884 292 (Monday- Friday, 9am-5pm) The Orange Door Loddon: 1800 512 359 (Monday- Friday, 9am-5pm) Safe Steps: 1800 015 188 (Statewide Service, 24/7) Centre Against Sexual Assault Central Victoria: (03) 5441 0430 (Monday- Friday, 9am-5pm) #16days #pvaw #bendigo #echuca #maryborough #kyneton #endviolence #notoviolence #familyviolence #genderedviolence #callitout #respectwomen