Insights from Tracey, Youth Safety Officer
We all have the right to feel safe, yet for many, home is not the safest place. The statistics on family violence are overwhelming and hard to believe, but we know that it is significantly underreported. Eight out of ten women who experience violence from a current partner do not report it to the police.
When a victim-survivor reaches out for help, it is our responsibility as a community to listen. It takes incredible courage to speak up, especially when the perpetrator is someone you love. Seeking help can feel overwhelming when you're experiencing family violence.
What gives me hope is seeing the change that occurs when survivors receive support. They can go on to thrive, building a life free from violence.
Raise Foundation plays a vital role in helping young people build their best lives, not just for themselves but for their families too. As community members, we must educate ourselves about family violence, understand why it's so difficult for survivors to speak up or leave, and learn how to have safe conversations that make a difference. We must listen, believe, and become part of the change.
How to support someone experiencing domestic and family violence | 1800RESPECT
Remember:
Family violence is against the law.
Family violence is a choice made by the perpetrator and they are wholly responsible.
Family violence is not a private matter.
Family violence is preventable.
It is never ok for someone to make you feel afraid.
How do people respond to FDSV? - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Impacts on Young People
According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, domestic and family violence affects children’s behaviour, schooling, cognitive development, mental and physical well-being, and is the leading cause of homelessness for children. Children who grow up in these environments are also more likely to experience other forms of abuse, such as sexual, physical, and emotional maltreatment. It is never in a child’s best interest to grow up in a home where violence is present.
Support systems like Raise Foundation can help young people find their voice, seek help, and thrive despite their circumstances.
Children's exposure to domestic and family violence | Australian Institute of Family Studies
Youth Voice on Safety
In our evaluation surveys, we asked our mentees about their concerns, and this year, crime and safety ranked as the second highest concern. This is the first time that crime and safety have appeared in the top three.
For the boys in our program, it is their top concern.
The Raise Foundation Youth Advisory Collective (YAC), made up of passionate young people across Australia, ensures that the youth voice is heard in all our decisions. They see crime and safety as major worries for young people today, even more than social media. The YAC has expressed frustration about the lack of action on these issues and the feeling of not being heard.
With safety being a top concern, Raise Foundation provides a safe space where young people can openly discuss what’s worrying them and seek support when needed.
Rates of Childhood Abuse in Australia Before the Age of 15:
1 in 6 women experienced childhood abuse (18%)
1 in 9 men experienced childhood abuse (11%)
1 in 6 women witnessed parental violence during childhood (16%)
1 in 9 men witnessed parental violence during childhood (11%)
Personal Safety, Australia, 2021-22 financial year | Australian Bureau of Statistics
Resources
Here are some resources that provide support and information on domestic and family violence:
Domestic and Family Violence | 1800RESPECT
National service, provides local links and information. Culturally safe and will use interpreters.
• Domestic Violence Prevention Centre (Queensland)
Domestic Violence Prevention Centre: Support and Resources
Provides resources and videos designed in collaboration with young people, based on the work of family violence counsellors. Great for leading discussions about safe and respectful relationships.
• The Orange Door (Victoria)
The Orange Door, Victoria
Statewide one-door option for support with child wellbeing or family violence. They assess risk, safety plan, and provide culturally safe services with interpreters. Watch video here.
NAPCAN Resources
Provides resources and training to support the safety and well-being of children and young people, ranging from role-based factsheets and brochures to child-centered training.
