Walking in solidarity
by Nathan Weatherhead
Staff from West Gippsland Healthcare Group, Quantum and the Warragul Library last Wednesday took to the streets to walk in solidarity against family violence.
COVID-19 restrictions put a stop to the annual Safe Steps walk, however the organisation encouraged the community to participate in a virtual walk from home.
WGHG family violence project manager Leanne Coupland said the walk was important in promoting awareness about family violence and reiterating support services were available.
“We want our community to know that our organisation is a safe place. Some of the support services aren’t available 24/7, but as a public hospital, we are.
“It’s really important to let women know that we have the ability and trained staff who can help deal with family violence and the knowledge about referral services,” Ms Coupland said.
A group of 12 staff walked from Gladstone Street Community Health centre to the Warragul Community Gardens, joined by WGHG board chair Christine Holland. A smaller group also walked from WGHG’s Rawson Community Health Centre, around Crater Lake in Rawson.
Staff wore orange masks to show support for victim-survivors and to help send a message that family violence will not be tolerated.
Ms Coupland said the emergency department was always open and a safe place for those experiencing family violence, with WGHG working in partnership with specialist family violence services.
Staff have also received education about family violence and can assist victim-survivors.
Warragul Library staff were also involved in the walk, raising awareness about family violence with several staff taking part.
During the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence campaign, the library is running two online story time events. They have partnered with Manna Gum Community House, and Early Years officer Lisa Duvoisin has recorded two readings to be shared on the website and Facebook, as well as being sent out to local kinders and early years centres.
The stories chosen are written by author Nelly Thomas and promote gender equality and aim to instil confidence in young children by challenging old fashioned stereotypes.
“As part of raising awareness we wanted to be involved in the 16 days campaign. The West Gippsland libraries have arranged a range of different activities throughout which included the walk and more,” West Gippsland Regional Library chief executive Leanne Williams said.
The 16 days of activism concludes on December 10.