Partnership encourages action against domestic violence

Redlands Coast residents can learn more about domestic and family violence and its impacts through a new education program and a series of information pop-ups.

Redland City Council has partnered with The Centre for Women & Co. and Men & Co. Services to raise awareness and encourage action during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month in May.

Mayor Jos Mitchell said the collaboration would also highlight the support services available for anyone impacted by domestic and family violence, including coercive control.

“Council is supporting these two not-for-profit groups at a series of information pop-ups and by sharing access to their new online domestic and family violence education program,” she said.

“The program, Raise the Bar, includes 10 modules to help businesses and community organisations understand the devastating impacts of domestic and family violence, and how each of us can play a role in eradicating it.

“Council has bought 20 places for this program, making these available to representatives of not-for-profit community and sporting organsations and groups.

“This is a great opportunity for people in these organisations to learn more about behaviours and systems that may tolerate or excuse violence.”

Council is also helping with the organisation of pop-ups where there will be representatives from both The Centre for Women & Co. and Men & Co. Services, along with information on support services that are available.

The first pop-up was held at Shoreline Markets on 3 May, and others will be held at:

The Mayor said it was important to send a clear message that violence in our communities would not be tolerated.

“Domestic and family violence impacts everyone in the community in some way and we can all play a role in stopping it,” she said.

“I encourage everyone to commit to taking action against domestic and family violence in ways that they are comfortable with.

“It was very heartening to see so many people attend our annual candle lighting vigil at Raby Bay Harbour Park on 1 May, where we joined a nationwide one minute’s silence to remember those who have lost their lives to domestic or family violence.

“Events such as the vigil and the pop-ups and programs such as Raise the Bar are important to show our solidarity and support as a community for those who are experiencing violence.”

Any community groups interested in nominating a representative to complete the Raise the Bar program can visit Council’s website at redland.qld.gov.au and search ‘Domestic and family violence initiatives’.

More information on the program is available at raisethebar.org.au