ASSISTANCE for those experiencing domestic violence in Nyngan and surrounds has become significantly more accessible in the past year with formal services introduced by Mission Australia and Barnardos, as well as continued support from police, health services and the Red Cross Community Hub.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
According to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), Bogan Shire had the state’s 11th highest rate of recorded domestic violence incidents in the year to June.
Until a year ago there was no formal domestic violence counselling presence in Nyngan.
Mission Australia now has a fulltime presence in Nyngan, offering support and assistance for those who are homeless or at risk of being homeless due to domestic violence.
Mission Australia community service worker Fiona Garment said the service was a port of call for anyone suffering or needing advice. She said an increased awareness of what constituted domestic violence, and the new services, had led to more people seeking assistance.
“Sometimes it is just about coming in, sitting down and having a cuppa and talking about the options,” she said.
“Mission Australia can help with safety plans, crisis accommodation and general support for anyone in need.
“Many sufferers of domestic violence are isolated geographically, or from their friends and family. They don’t always have someone to turn to talk about what is going on, and sometimes they don’t feel as though it is a matter for the police.”
Mission Australia also has a domestic violence helpline (1800 656 463), and a Link2Home helpline (1800 152 152) for those needing support or crisis accommodation any time of day or night.
Barnardos Australia also offers domestic violence support for women and their children who have experienced family violence. A linker based in Nyngan provides an after-hours service giving emotional support to those across Western NSW leaving dangerous situations.
The domestic violence services available in the region will be highlighted at a White Ribbon Day at O’Reilly Park on Friday, November 24.