Take a stance against domestic violence and join the White Ribbon march in Castle Hill

The White Ribbon March against domestic violence is on again on November 25 and will be an even bigger statement than before

Inspector Matt Harris (Castle Hill Police), Robyn Waite (Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network and David O'Neil (Group CEO Castle Hill RSL) are encouraging people to take part in the White Ribbon march on November 25.

The White Ribbon March against domestic violence is on again on November 25 and will be an even bigger statement than before.

Last year 1000 people marched down Castle St from Castle Towers to Castle Hill RSL to show their opposition to violence against women. This year it is hoped that more than 2000 people will join the march from it’s new starting point at The Piazza Castle Towers on Old Northern Rd.

Robyn Waite

Supt Rob Critchlow, Commander of the The Hills LAC said there were 258 assaults in the 12 months to June 2016 which was a lot less than the State average — 40 per cent.

“We are disappointers that we still have well over 200 assaults against people by those in a relationship with others.

“Women are the overwhelming victims of this crime and men need to take responsibility for this. that is the whole rationale behind White Ribbon, in that domestic violence is a problem caused by men and men need to stand together to reject violence against women.”

The march begins and 7am and will be followed by a White Ribbon breakfast at Castle Hill RSL in the The Lyceum, and a White Ribbon barbecue breakfast.

Robyn Waite from The Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network said it was a great initiative.

“It gives our community the opportunity to stand up and show they are united against violence to women and children in any form.

She said Castle Hill RSL Club, The Hills LAC and The Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network who were planning the event wanted schools to get involved.

“Domestic and family violence is not postcode specific and does occur in our local area, whether physical, social, financial or psychological. Hills LAC is very proactive in supporting local residents and service providers.

“While there is an increase in local services to support women and children, there still could be more. The Sanctuary, The Hills Women’s Shelter, crisis accommodation for women and children fleeing DV, opened it’s doors in April this year and has been full since then. Some days the manager has up to 16 calls from women or services seeking accommodation. Other local initiatives include transitional housing and support through the Lisa Harnum Foundation, Moving Forward (a support group) initiative of Hills Community Aid as well as other programs and support through local agencies.”

HELP

For anyone seeking assistance call:

Castle Hill Police: 9680 5399

DV Hotline: [phone]

The Sanctuary, The Hills Women’s Shelter: 9680 2653