May 18th, 2020Funding to stop violence
WRISC Family Violence Support, which provides services for women and children experiencing family violence in the Hepburn Shire region, has been given a grant of $329,050 by the Victorian Government.
The funding is part of a $40.2 million investment in crisis accommodation and specialist services for people suffering or at risk of family violence
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said for some in the community, home is already an unsafe place.
“Sudden unemployment, extended periods of isolation and the family at home together, can contribute to a heightened risk of family violence.
“Family violence frontline services, just like WRISC, continue to operate to support vulnerable women, children and families across our community.”
WRISC Family Violence Support executive officer Libby Jewson welcomed the funding and said it meant the organisation would be able to respond to women and children at risk during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The funding will help to keep women and children safe during these uncertain times – when risk to women and children is higher.”
As part of the package, the government will invest $20 million in short-term accommodation for family violence victim-survivors who do not feel safe isolating or recovering from coronavirus at home.
An extra $20.2 million will help Victorian family violence services meet the expected increase in demand during the coronavirus pandemic and provide critical help for victim-survivors.
This includes nearly $10.4 million to help more women and children escaping family violence get access to safe accommodation and related support, and $5.1 million for more flexible support packages across the state.
Just under $5 million will go towards new technology and protective equipment for up to 120 family violence and sexual assault organisations, so they can adapt their services and keep their staff safe, while protecting and supporting victim-survivors and their families.
For help and support, and to find out more, visit safesteps.org.au or call safesteps 24/7 on 1800 015 188.
