A pilot program helping children recover from domestic violence situations is finding success in Logan.
Open Haven, founded by Sabeel Burgess in 2013, has helped more than 1200 women fleeing domestic violence across south-east Queensland.
So far in Logan this year, Open Haven has helped almost 160 women transition out of domestic violence relationships.
Ms Burgess said 98% of the organisation’s clients have avoided returning to their abusers.
But there is a demographic often overlooked when it comes to domestic violence, she said.
“Because there is so much focus on women, there is a lack of good child psychologists.
“We have trialled child psychology in Logan and it’s working.
“The outcomes for these children, some of them who couldn’t attend school, are amazing.”
About 30 local children have taken part in the program so far.
“We had a child who could only attend school two days a week, and he is now attending full time and he’s a leader,” Ms Burgess said.
“One of his peers put him forward for leadership. How beautiful is that?”
Last week, more than 100 people gathered at Impact Church in Slacks Creek to “celebrate the strength and resilience” of domestic and family violence survivors.
The high tea afternoon, run by Open Haven, was filled with delicious food, a fashion show and heartfelt stories.
Community recognition awards were given to local residents and organisations making an impact in the fight against DV, and funds were raised to provide essential services for victim survivors.
Ms Burgess said these can range from driving lessons and job preparation, to legal support.
She was inspired to create Open Haven by women in her life who struggled to find independence and “navigate the system” after fleeing domestic violence relationships.
“I started researching and thought: hold on a minute, we’ve got great crisis intervention, but what happens to the women after?
“What happens once they’re in a refuge? How do they rebuild? How do they restart?”
So Ms Burgess created a support group, which grew quickly and eventually turned into the service it is today.
There are three Open Haven bases, including the one at Logan which is run by two social and community workers, and two volunteers.
With 40% of the organisation’s clients coming from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Open Haven aims to help women rebuild their lives and gain confidence by reconnecting them with the community.
“Survivors are more likely to seek help when they can trust a community,” Ms Burgess said.
“It shouldn’t be a private issue, but a public concern.”
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