Cairns DV help and safety available over Christmas
FNQ residents who are victims of domestic or family violence can reach out for assistance because help in available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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It’s the ugly side of the festive season that no-one deserves to experience.
While for many, Christmas and New Year can be a wonderful time to catch up with friends and family, for others it can mean being exposed to mental or physical abuse.
According to Cairns Regional Domestic Violence Service, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Lee-Ross, abuse happens to people of all walks of life, culture and age groups.
Ms Lee-Ross said if anyone was cornered for their own safety or the safety of others they should immediately called the police.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe at home, so if you do feel genuinely concerned about your own safety or that of someone else, call triple-0, this is what the police are there for,” she said.
“And our DV Connect is open 24 hours, seven days a week on 1800 811 811 and this service can help people find safe accommodation throughout Queensland.”
Ms Lee-Ross said no-one deserves to be abused and that often domestic violence and family violence takes place “behind closed doors”.
She said that while it can be difficult for those who are, or who have experienced violence to come forward because they may feel isolated, ashamed, confused or just too afraid to speak about their experiences, help is available.
Ms Lee-Ross said when the perpetuator is on holidays, there can be an escalation of serious violence.
“When people are on holidays and off work, there’s more opportunity for them to behave badly,” she said.
“It can be much harder for the victim to pick up the phone and talk to someone if the violent person may be watching their every move.”
A Queensland Treasury report released earlier this year rankled Cairns as the fourth highest in the state in regard to breaches of domestic violence orders (DVOs).
Disturbingly, the report revealed breaches of DVOs had increased by more than 120 per cent over the past nine years.
Where to get help
If you feel in danger, call Triple triple-0 immediately.
DV Connect is open 24 hours, seven days a week on 1800 811 811 and can assist people to find safe accommodation across the state.
Lifeline 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text on 0477 13 11 14 (12pm to midnight AEST) or chat online. 13 11 14
Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.
MensLine is a professional telephone and online counselling service offering support to Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or organise a video chat.
Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling provides 24/7 free and confidential counselling to anyone who has served at least one day in the ADF, their partners and families. Call 1800 011 046.
Suicide Call Back Service provides 24/7 support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. Call 1300 659 467.
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