Domestic Violence Awareness Month has highlighted a major problem in Logan – an increase of domestic violence cases and not enough resources of support.
Spokesperson for the Not Now, Not Ever in Logan campaign – designed to increase domestic violence awareness and prevention – Judith Hunter said since the pandemic, Logan has seen an increase in the number of people seeking support.
“Sadly, all the services in Logan are seeing an increase in the number of people seeking support for domestic violence,” she said.
“We’re also seeing an increase in the severity of violence. Not just physical violence, but also really sophisticated coercive control and non-physical tactics of abuse.
“This can be down to what someone wears, who they talk to, where they go and monitoring with technology.”
Programs manager for Defenders for Hope Kathy Smith said higher demand was straining resources, especially accommodation.
“Studies show that living with domestic violence can cause physical and emotional harm to children and young people in the following ways: ongoing anxiety and depression, emotional distress, eating and sleeping disturbances,” she said.
“In Logan we are very limited in accommodation, we do have a few shelters and refuges but not to meet the demand of people fleeing DV.
“There is lots of information out there, that help with awareness. But we need more people on the ground to help at the time of crises.”
A domestic violence survivor from Logan said more support is needed to combat this issue.
“So many things go on behind closed doors that go unnoticed, people need to know they can talk to someone, and that help is available,” she said.
“I saw signs pretty quickly in the relationship but was blind to it because he ‘loved me’ and I really wanted it to work. So many people face the same struggles or are scared to leave and that’s why we need the support.”
Ms Hunter said all levels of government and the whole community need to work together to deliver positive change.
“The Not Now, Not Ever in Logan campaign exists because real and lasting positive cultural change can only happen when all levels of society are involved and take action against domestic and family violence,” she said.
“As the incidence of violence increases and the housing crisis worsens, we definitely need more resources to support people experiencing domestic and family violence.”
For those experiencing Domestic Violence, Ms Smith said there are ways to protect yourself.
- Recognize the lies. Something inside you is trying to tell you the truth.
- Do not take the blame. You are not the cause or cure for what ails your abuser.
- Recognise your relationship rights.
- Do not ignore the abuse.
- Don’t engage the abuse.
- Don’t hide the abuse.
- Leave
For help in Logan and Beenleigh contact the Centre for Women & Co on 3050 3060, in Jimboomba and Beaudesert contact SHINE on 3826 1500. Placement in a shelter can be arranged by contacting DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811. For information about services and safety planning visit www.notinlogan.com.au
