CBCity says no to domestic violence

National White Ribbon Ambassador and Mayor of the City of Canterbury Bankstown, Khal Asfour, has called on local employers to introduce paid leave for staff, who are victims of domestic violence.

Employees of the City of Canterbury Bankstown are now entitled to 10 days paid domestic violence leave.

"When somebody is suffering or experiencing family or domestic violence, they can’t just leave the issue at the door when they come to work," Mayor Asfour said.

"So, as a Council, we are acknowledging that and providing support where we can and this is one way to do that.

"We have also developed a Domestic Violence Information Pack for local employers which helps guide them in implementing similar support for their employees."

White Ribbon advocate, SarahJane Bradford, who experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse as a young girl, praised Council’s stance.

"I can’t describe enough how much this policy should be replicated in all workplaces," she said.

"To know you have the support of your workplace could mean the difference between life and death for some."

Ms Bradford was sexually abused by her biological father at eight, suffered a fractured skull at the hands of her biological mother at nine, and was physically and mentally abused the majority of her childhood.

"When I was put into foster care at nine, my life didn’t really get any better. I suffered other forms of abuse, with my foster parents telling me ‘I wasn’t worthy’ and ‘wasn’t good enough’ and ‘would never amount to anything’," she said.

In 2011, her demons got the better of her and with the intention of ending her life, overdosed on drugs. Seven years on, Ms Bradford is a registered emergency nurse, has a Masters in Education, and is getting married next year. On Thursday 22 November, she will bravely tell her story at Council’s annual White Ribbon Tug O’ War event, at the John Mackay Indoor Sports Centre.

All men from the local community, businesses, schools, community groups and organisations are encouraged to register teams of five and enter the event, by visiting cb.city/whiteribbonday